Can a scratch from a small hamster cause disease?

Generally, a small hamster scratch may potentially cause illness, but it does not always lead to disease. Whether illness occurs mainly depends on whether the hamster carries pathogens and whether proper wound care is administered promptly after the scratch. The specific analysis is as follows:

If the hamster is a healthy, domesticated pet that has been well maintained with good hygiene and has had no exposure to external pathogens, the likelihood of developing an infection from a scratch is low. Minor scratches may only result in localized redness and swelling, which can be effectively managed with basic disinfection and will not lead to serious complications.

However, if the hamster carries bacteria or parasites—such as the rabies virus or hantavirus—or if the scratch is deep or the wound becomes contaminated, there is a risk of infection, possibly leading to symptoms like fever, pus at the wound site, and general malaise. Wild-caught or hamsters of unknown origin pose a higher risk of carrying infectious agents.

To reduce these risks, immediately wash the wound with soap and water after a scratch, then disinfect it with iodine solution. When handling hamsters, it is advisable to wear gloves, regularly clean their living environment, and avoid bites or scratches to minimize the chance of infection at the source.