Hamsters
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Living on average for two to three years, hamsters are probably one of the most popular of small rodents which are kept as pets. The Syrian hamster, also more commonly known as the golden hamster, is the largest and most common. Hamsters are naturally solitary and will fight any others that share their environment. Dwarf hamsters for example, do like company but should be kept with the same sex.
Ensure that you purchase the correct sized home for your hamster and bear in mind that they do like climbing. Try to avoid adding wheels with spokes for your hamsters due to increased injury risk although they do enjoy cardboard tubes as they like to run through them or chew them.
Food is easily sourced from a local pet store and a commercial mix specifically designed for hamsters is a good basis, they do enjoy eating fruit and vegetables too so add a slice of apple or a little cauliflower and they will happily enjoy their extended menu. It is important to not give them too much fresh food in one sitting as they are notorious hoarders and will hide food away. This food will quickly rot so it is wise to remove all uneaten food each day.
The front teeth of a hamster grow continuously so it is important that they have something on which to gnaw, and this could be something like dog biscuits for example. Always have fresh water available by way of a bottle attached to the side of the cage and ensure that this has not become blocked.
Although hamsters make very good pets and rarely bite, it is worth being aware that they are naturally nocturnal and they may become alarmed if disturbed. Always ensure that children are supervised when handling the hamster.
Fortunately, there is a lot of good information available about hamsters and how to look after them and this can be by way of books or through websites specialising in pet rodent information. It is always recommended that those interested in bringing a hamster into the household, that all resources are in place and that all the knowledge required at looking after this rodent is available.
<< Previous Guinea Pigs | Back to Pet Rodents | Next >> Pet Mice
Ensure that you purchase the correct sized home for your hamster and bear in mind that they do like climbing. Try to avoid adding wheels with spokes for your hamsters due to increased injury risk although they do enjoy cardboard tubes as they like to run through them or chew them.
Food is easily sourced from a local pet store and a commercial mix specifically designed for hamsters is a good basis, they do enjoy eating fruit and vegetables too so add a slice of apple or a little cauliflower and they will happily enjoy their extended menu. It is important to not give them too much fresh food in one sitting as they are notorious hoarders and will hide food away. This food will quickly rot so it is wise to remove all uneaten food each day.
The front teeth of a hamster grow continuously so it is important that they have something on which to gnaw, and this could be something like dog biscuits for example. Always have fresh water available by way of a bottle attached to the side of the cage and ensure that this has not become blocked.
Although hamsters make very good pets and rarely bite, it is worth being aware that they are naturally nocturnal and they may become alarmed if disturbed. Always ensure that children are supervised when handling the hamster.
Fortunately, there is a lot of good information available about hamsters and how to look after them and this can be by way of books or through websites specialising in pet rodent information. It is always recommended that those interested in bringing a hamster into the household, that all resources are in place and that all the knowledge required at looking after this rodent is available.
<< Previous Guinea Pigs | Back to Pet Rodents | Next >> Pet Mice