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Bored guinea pigs and hamsters – how to avoid this at Christmas time

November 21, 2021

We’re sure many small furry pet owners in London can relate to this; how do you avoid having a bored guinea pig or a bored hamster?

This can be especially tricky when you’re burning the Christmas candle at both ends and struggling to dedicate as much time as usual to your little pal. Our head Vet Victoria Seale, and their team have scoured the internet and come up with some interesting looking, highly rated toys for your small pets to try. We’d love to know what you think so share a photo or video on our Facebook page.

Share your pet’s fun times on Facebook

Most small pets (excluding Syrian hamsters) prefer to live in pairs, so it’s important to give them a companion to avoid loneliness. When they get bored, they can become depressed and some will even self-mutilate so mental stimulation is important too.

If you notice anything unusual about your pet, book a small pet Vet check.

To avoid boredom, small pets need toys and activities that allow them to mimic their natural wild behaviours like exploring, foraging, and gnawing. We hope you like the look of these too:

Eight boredom busting toys for small pets

Wooden Exercise Wheel – This might end up with some teeth marks in, but your pet will have enjoyed themselves.

<external link="" to:="" Play Tunnel Giant Tube – Depending on where you hang it from, your pet can have lots of fun jumping in and out of it.

Natural Grass Hammock – Chewable, swingable… what’s not to love?

Boredom Breaking Chew ToysGet 11 toys designed for hamsters, rats, guinea pigs, chinchillas, gerbils, rabbits, and Syrian hamsters – so much choice!

Floral Hanging Basket – This is ready to be chewed and delightfully destroyed.

Carrot Cottage – A cute cottage covered in hay with a real carrot roof? Yes, this is perfect for climbing on, sleeping under, and gnawing.

Peanut Gnawing Chew – These hamster chew toys will be good for boredom and filing down their teeth, plus they’ll work with most small pets.

Fruit Flavoured Nibble Cage Chew – Another tasty treat that’s ideal for oral health and preventing boredom.

If you’re on a tight budget this Christmas or just enjoy making things yourself, check out these videos on how to make DIY toys for guinea pigs, hamsters, and other small pets:

How to make a foraging box for guinea pigs

Make boredom busting toys for hamsters and other small pets

10 DIY toys for rabbits and other small pets

We’d love to see how your small pets get on with any of these toys, or if you have your own. Visit our Facebook page and share your photos and experiences!

Share the joy on Facebook


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