Can I give my other hamster the edible log?

[rocknrage]

I bought an edible log from Petsmart a few months ago because my Syrian is very picky on what he chews on (he won't chew on "hamster chew toys" like blocks or sticks, but he will chew on Whimzees and pretty much only Whimzees) so I tried to see if he'd enjoy the log.
Since he didn't touch it, I was wondering if I could give it to by Robo, whom loves to chew on pretty much everything.
Is it sanitary?
The log did stay in my Syrian's cage for awhile, maybe a few weeks, so would scent be a problem? He doesn't have any health problems, to my knowledge.
I don't want to waste it, but I don't want to risk anything either.
Thanks!

[Jeir]

There are those who would say no, but I'd say yes. I can't think of any illness/disease that Syrians and Robos share, bar perhaps the Cold, so germs and the like shouldn't be an issue. The only issue there may be is the scent of the Syrian causing stress for your Robo, as they are very nervous little critters.

But, if your hamsters are familiar with each others smells (in the same room, or scent transfer on clothing and such), and if it's been a while since the tunnel was touched by the Syrian, then I don't really see any harm. You could test it by just putting it in your Robo's cage while he's up, and see what his reaction to it is.

If he keeps far away from it and doesn't investigate, or seems panicked, then remove it...and maybe put it to the side for a few weeks to let the Syrian's scent go out from it (or bury it in your Robo's old substrate for a little while). If he seems interested, then let him keep it.

[WinnieTheHam]

Maybe rub the log with your robos substrate for a couple of days and then put it in his cage so he's familiar with the scent.

Or every time you handle him, rub your hands on the log after handling so the scent from your robo on your hands is transferred to the log.