Is acrylic water-based paint safe?

[Skard]

Hi! I just got my new hamster Poptart about a week ago now and I've been trying to leave her alone as she's acclimating to her new home. In order to keep myself busy from poking and prodding her when she's awake, I've started up a project. I wanted to make her special hides and a bridge.

I've made the entire thing with cardboard and Elmer's non-toxic glue. As per the research that I've done on hamster crafts. However, I would really like to paint them! I have my own collection of acrylic water-based paint that I'd like to use. However, when I researched about it, there seems to be a lot of conflicting information. Some say that it's unsafe and some say it's fine.

A little bit more information, these hides that I'm making are NOT going into her enclosure. She will NOT be using these painted hides without supervision. They are going to be used for free-roam play time. I will be with her of course just to make sure she doesn't chew on them or anything. The paint will be on the OUTSIDE side of each of the crafts, where I can see her.

But I was just wondering if these paints will be safe for her while she plays on them? And if anyone has any input, that'd be great. Thanks!

[Aegis]

I just did some research and there is actually another post on Hamster Central about this, so yes acrylic water based paint is safe around hamsters. Apparantly, just make sure that it is definately water-based, which is important according to some other helpful websites. It's also good that you are supervising Poptart while doing this, and definately watch her in case she tries to start chewing on the paint. Good luck with your project!
-Aegis