[Ria P]

The other thing you may need to consider is the need for more frequent health checks otherwise you wouldn't become aware of any changes to your hamster's eyes, nose and skin until it's too late and serious damage has been done.

Do you know why river sand is dust free?

All sand is dusty when poured and then settles. It's the nature of the beast. Sand that doesn't create any dust at all would worry me more because i'd wonder what's in there that's weighing it down. I guess it could be something that shouldn't be there like toxic chemicals.

Now, i'm a dotty old lady who knows nothing about science or chemistry but when it comes to the wellbeing and safety of my beloved hamsters, i like to rely on good old common sense which tells me that river sand isn't the way to go.