Hamsters

With so many breeds of hamsters to choose from, shoppers are pleased to find that everything else about hamsters is relatively easy! Their cages, nutrition, and behaviors are quite similar no matter which breed you decide on. Because they are so easy to care for they make great pets for children or for adults!

There are two species of hamsters commonly sold as pets. The first is the Syrian hamster which ranges from 6-8 inches long. The second is the dwarf Russian hamster who grows no longer than 4 inches. Syrian hamsters are solitary critters and should only be kept in a cage by themselves. They live an average of 2-2 1⁄2 years, although up to five is possible. Russian hamsters can live in groups as long as they are introduced when they are young and that the cage they share is large enough. The dwarf Russian hamsters live an average of 1-1 1⁄2 years, although up to three years is common.

Finding a cage to house your hamster is also a simple task. There are many different kinds and come in many different colors. A hamster cage can be made of wire, plastic, or glass. A combination of wire and plastic is often chosen because they provide good ventilation. Glass cages are also a great alternative for hamsters that have a tendency to chew on plastic. For bedding you can choose from aspen shavings or pet litter of recycled paper or organic pellets. Clay litter, pine, or cedar shavings are strongly discouraged.

A water bottle and food dish are next on your list of hamster necessities. You can offer your hamster special beds made from plastic, wood, or grass houses. They love to build nests in these shelters and often hide their food inside. They are also a nice place to go for the very nocturnal Syrian hamsters who do not like to be disturbed during the day. Hamsters also enjoy exercise wheels, hammocks, climbing toys, tubes, ropes, and chew toys. It is important to supply chew toys so that their teeth do not become too long.
Feeding your hamster requires only a bag of commercial rodent block or fortified grain mix. These prepackaged foods are found in all pet stores. You can also give small amounts of fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods. Treats are wonderful tools for training and strengthening a bond between you and your pet. These small animals require a lot of time to socialize to people so it is important to get to know your hamster’s likes and dislikes.

Their cages should be cleaned weekly. You should also clean off their toys if needed and remove all stored food. Each part of their water bottle should be cleaned and pay special attention to soiled areas of their bedding. All Pet’s stores house many different hamsters. Our staff will be glad to introduce you to them and answer any further questions.