Hamsters are one of the most well-liked rodents. There are 2 basic types, the bigger Syrian or Golden pet hamster and the smaller Dwarf Hamster. The basic differences between the 2 are as follows:
- Golden Hamster: Larger size makes them easier to care, particularly when handled by children. The Syrian likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Small size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live solo or in pairs.
Whichever breed is selected, the diet, and habitats, are essentially identical. Both types are nocturnal, and wake just after dawn. This is also the perfect time to play with and feed a pet hamster. A healthy animal will live for up to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster look for symptoms associated with rodent diseases such as discharge from the eyes, ears or nose. The front teeth should be properly formed, and the back of the body should not be wet. A wet tail area indicates an illness called wet tail. Do not buy any hamsters housed with an animal suffering from this condition.
Hamster Food
The hamsters are vegans, but will eat a mealworm or cooked chicken if given the opportunity. The optimal diet includes nutritionally balanced pellets, some seeds, and greens. About 2 times a week a hamster should also have some fruit as a treat. Seeds should be limited since they are rich in fats and can lead to weight issues. Debar feeding any refined human food.
Hamster Habitats
Syrian hamster and Dwarf Hamster cages come in many shapes and sizes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid glass aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. Make sure that any lid is escape proof. Do not buy a cage meant for a Syrian or Golden Hamster if you have a Dwarf. New owners should consider a low cost starter kit that makes getting started with a new pet as easy as opening the box.
Handling Your Pet
Pet hamsters can be taught to be picked up and handled. Training starts when they are young. Start slow by introducing your hand into the cage. After they become used to your hand and your scent. Use a treat to lure the hamster onto your hand while still in the cage without lifting the hamster out of the hamster cage. By now it should be easy to have your hamster stay calm as you life your hand from the cage.
If you take excellent care of your pet, including a good diet, you can get years of pleasure from your hamster.
- Golden Hamster: Larger size makes them easier to care, particularly when handled by children. The Syrian likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Small size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live solo or in pairs.
Whichever breed is selected, the diet, and habitats, are essentially identical. Both types are nocturnal, and wake just after dawn. This is also the perfect time to play with and feed a pet hamster. A healthy animal will live for up to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster look for symptoms associated with rodent diseases such as discharge from the eyes, ears or nose. The front teeth should be properly formed, and the back of the body should not be wet. A wet tail area indicates an illness called wet tail. Do not buy any hamsters housed with an animal suffering from this condition.
Hamster Food
The hamsters are vegans, but will eat a mealworm or cooked chicken if given the opportunity. The optimal diet includes nutritionally balanced pellets, some seeds, and greens. About 2 times a week a hamster should also have some fruit as a treat. Seeds should be limited since they are rich in fats and can lead to weight issues. Debar feeding any refined human food.
Hamster Habitats
Syrian hamster and Dwarf Hamster cages come in many shapes and sizes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid glass aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. Make sure that any lid is escape proof. Do not buy a cage meant for a Syrian or Golden Hamster if you have a Dwarf. New owners should consider a low cost starter kit that makes getting started with a new pet as easy as opening the box.
Handling Your Pet
Pet hamsters can be taught to be picked up and handled. Training starts when they are young. Start slow by introducing your hand into the cage. After they become used to your hand and your scent. Use a treat to lure the hamster onto your hand while still in the cage without lifting the hamster out of the hamster cage. By now it should be easy to have your hamster stay calm as you life your hand from the cage.
If you take excellent care of your pet, including a good diet, you can get years of pleasure from your hamster.
About the Author:
The author, Cathy Doggins is the writer of many articles on pet hamsters. When not editing articles about these wonderful rodents, Cathy can be found caring for many cool small pets and learning new things about her beloved pets.
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