Bedding question

[alpacassei]

To test for diabetes you’ll need keto-diastix (you can order from amazon) and preferably also a vets diagnosis. Strong smelling urine isn’t necessarily an indication of diabetes though, especially with male Russian dwarfs who are notoriously stinky

Most odour control beddings have some kind of scent or chemical to help mask the odours but hamsters have very sensitive noses so its most likely that the smell of the bedding is too much for him and that’s why he’s avoiding it. Some hamsters will also pee in their nests as a way of marking their territory.