Are seashells safe for hamsters?

Crystalroborovski · 03-26-2017, 03:30 PM

Hi there! I am making a beach themed cage for my robo hamster pair I will be getting in a week or two, and I had a question. Is it safe to use sterilized seashells in a hamster cage? I was going to be sure the shells had no rough, sharp edges or holes where the hamsters could get their legs caught in. If shells are safe I was going to use natural, strait-from-the-beach sterilized shells rather than fake or polished shells from a shell shop. If I got a hamster that was a chewer I would take them out if needed, I just wanted to know if knawing on the shells would be hazardous for their health.

Please note that I have done loads of research on getting a pair of robos so I know what I'm getting in to. While I don't appreciate criticism I welcome tips on hamster pairs

AmityvilleHams · 03-26-2017, 03:33 PM

Don't use anything from the outdoors,even if sterilized.It is far too risky to justify using them,even if they may look good

Drago · 03-26-2017, 03:40 PM

I agree that it's pretty risky to use them even if they're sterilized. I'd recommend instead getting ceramic shells from a decor shop or craft store. These are safer and don't have the inherent risks of items found outside. Make sure to share some pictures of your cage once it's set up!

Crystalroborovski · 03-26-2017, 04:32 PM

Ok, I'll stay away from the natural shells. So ceramic shells are safe?
Yeah, I'll share pics of the cage! I'm not for certain that I'll do a beach theme considereing themed cages can get pricey, but I'll definitely share if I do decide on the beachy cage

Crystalroborovski · 03-27-2017, 07:27 PM

I have another question- would natural shells from a reputable seashell shop be safe? I would still sanitize and freeze them if I got them to be sure to get rid of any creepy crawlies. The shells at the shell shop I'm talking about are thoroughly cleaned and ridded of any sea creatures.

And also I looked and looked for ceramic shells but I can't find any

seems odd, I would think I could find at least some but no luck. So even if I boiled and freezes the shells for a couple of days they would still be risky?

AmityvilleHams · 03-27-2017, 08:16 PM

I think they would.Even from a reputable shop they could be unsafe(outdoor sourced).

Ceramic shells might not be specifically labelled as that!I haven't seen any from the Michael's website with a quick search,however if they're faux shells(not natural)then they would be fine.

Or for safety you could just use other items instead,but with more than one robo this theme is quite difficult

However,you could decorate a sign for the outside of a cage with seashells and paint no matter what!I know Petsmart sell a variety for aquarium use that would work great for this or outside of the cage decoration in general,along with a huge variety of other things that would be wonderful for a single robo but definitely not for a pair

dreamtree1234 · 03-27-2017, 08:53 PM

I agree with AmityvilleHams and Drago. I would only use ceramic shells instead of any real shells no matter if they are bought from a reputable store. I know that many pet stores that sell fish, crabs, or other aquatic creatures usually have a large variety of ceramic decorations that could be useful in creating a lovely beach scene. I would suggest checking out these options and let your imagination soar. Also, you could use real shells bought from a reputable store to decorate only the outside of your hamster home so long as your hamster pair does not have any way to get into contact with it. For example, they are in a glass or bin cage. In addition, you may want to look on the internet for hamster beach themed cages for additional inspiration. I would absolutely LOVE to see what terrific ideas you come up with in creating your hamsters' themed cage. Good luck and have tons of fun making the perfect and safe home for your two little ones.

Crystalroborovski · 03-28-2017, 06:50 AM

Ok, I'll be sure to stay away from any natural shells. Thank you all for the advice! I think I'll use some seashells on the outside of the cage just for decorations. I'll keep my eyes peeled for fake seashells. I'm excited as well for this theme and I'll be sure to share pictures once I'm done!

**Cinnamon Bear** · 03-28-2017, 07:01 AM

I bought some shells to in case I ever wanted a cage theme but knew they were too risky cause they were thin so the hammy might try to chew on it. Hope you find what your looking for with your cage theme.