Hamsters are one of the hottest rodents. There are 2 basic types, the bigger Syrian or Golden pet hamster and the smaller Dwarf Hamster. The basic differences between the two are as follows:
- Syrian Hamster: Larger size makes them easier to manage, particularly when handled by children. The Teddy Bear 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. They are nocturnal, and wake shortly after dawn. This is also the perfect time to play with and feed a pet hamster. A healthy pet will live for up to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster examine the rodent for indications of an illness such as discharge at the edges of the ears, eyes or nose. The front teeth should be even in appearance with the exception of the front two, and the back of the body should not be damp. A damp tail area could indicate a condition called wet tail. Avoid any hamsters caged with an animal suffering from this contagious disease.
Dietary Habits
Small Petss are vegetarians, but will eat a mealworm or meat if given the opportunity. The optimal diet includes nutritionally balanced pellets, some seeds, and fresh vegetables. About 2 times every week a hamster should also have some fruit as a treat. Limit seed consumption since they are rich in fats and can contribute to weight issues. Obviate feeding any refined human foods, fried food or chocolate.
Hamster Habitats
Syrian hamster and Dwarf Hamster cages come in several shapes and sizes. Buy the biggest cage possible. Avoid glass aquariums since they have limited ventilation. Hamsters are escape artists so make sure any cage comes with a secure lid. 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
Hamsters can be trained to be easily handled. Start to train hamsters right after you bring them home. Get your hamster used to your hand by placing it into the cage. Once they become used to the 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 healthy diet, you can get years of enjoyment from your hamster.
- Syrian Hamster: Larger size makes them easier to manage, particularly when handled by children. The Teddy Bear 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. They are nocturnal, and wake shortly after dawn. This is also the perfect time to play with and feed a pet hamster. A healthy pet will live for up to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster examine the rodent for indications of an illness such as discharge at the edges of the ears, eyes or nose. The front teeth should be even in appearance with the exception of the front two, and the back of the body should not be damp. A damp tail area could indicate a condition called wet tail. Avoid any hamsters caged with an animal suffering from this contagious disease.
Dietary Habits
Small Petss are vegetarians, but will eat a mealworm or meat if given the opportunity. The optimal diet includes nutritionally balanced pellets, some seeds, and fresh vegetables. About 2 times every week a hamster should also have some fruit as a treat. Limit seed consumption since they are rich in fats and can contribute to weight issues. Obviate feeding any refined human foods, fried food or chocolate.
Hamster Habitats
Syrian hamster and Dwarf Hamster cages come in several shapes and sizes. Buy the biggest cage possible. Avoid glass aquariums since they have limited ventilation. Hamsters are escape artists so make sure any cage comes with a secure lid. 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
Hamsters can be trained to be easily handled. Start to train hamsters right after you bring them home. Get your hamster used to your hand by placing it into the cage. Once they become used to the 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 healthy diet, you can get years of enjoyment from your hamster.
About the Author:
Cathy "cat" Doggins is the writer of many articles on rodents as pets. When not writing and lecturing about these wonderful rodents, Cathy can be found caring for many lizards, rodents and parakeets and as a volunteer at a local no kill pet shelter.
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