As you probably know, hamsters are small rodents which can be found in most pet stores. There are three main varieties: dwarf, European, and teddy bear.
Personally, I prefer the teddy bear hamster because it can grow to a relatively large size, and it’s very fluffy, making it more fun to handle. The European hamster grows to a similar size and has about the same temperament, but it doesn’t have the fluff. I don’t recommend the dwarf hamster. They may seem cute due to their size, but they are the most aggressive variety and they can be hard to handle.
Whichever one you chose, make sure that it isn’t too timid or aggressive. Ask if you can handle the little guy to see how it responds to you before you take it home.
Housing
Once you’ve made you selection, or preferably before you’ve made it, you should buy one of the hamster homes that can be found in most pet stores. You should also buy some of the connecting tubes and a small den area.
Hamsters are burrowing creatures that travel through a system of tunnels underground, so the tubes will help simulate that. A den or bed area will serve as a good place for your pet to sleep, but you should put a towel or rag over it so he can have some privacy. Your small pet will also need water, but DO NOT give him a water dish. If your pet gets too wet it can get sick and die. Instead, get it one of the hanging water bottles and attach it to the cage.
A running wheels is also a must for any hamster; they need to burn off fat through exercise. You will also need to place bedding into the cage, but don‘t use anything dusty or pointy. Your hamster will probably collect some of this in his mouth and transport it to make his bed.
As time goes on, you may wish to add another cage connected with the tubes for your hamster. He will sleep in the small den section, but come out to eat and drink in the main cage.
Feeding
You can feed your hamster a mixture of seeds and rodent cubes which are a mixture of everything it will need to stay healthy. The occasional treat of a raisin or bit of fruit will keep your pet happy, and you will also need to provide it with chewing wood, or coral cubes. The hamster wont actually eat these, but it will satisfy its natural chewing instinct to help it wear down its incisors which never stop growing.
Hamsters are hoarders which means they like to collect and store their food in their den, so don’t be alarmed if you fill his food dish and it’s empty the next day, but because of this, try not to feed it too much fresh fruit as it will mold quickly; use dried pieces for treats.
Handling
You can scoop up your friend in your hands by GENTLY grabbing him around the midsection with your other hand in front of him so he wont try to jump out of your grasp. Once you lift him up, cup your hands so he can look around, but hold him close as he may decide to leap for freedom. If your pet is very skittish and wont let you pick it up, or if it tries to bite you, start feeding it by hand and gently petting it to get it used to you.
Eventually you will be able to sit down on a bed or a couch with your little friend and let it crawl around on you. You may also want to get a hamster ball so your friend can explore your house, but make sure the lid is on tight.
Cleaning
Your hamster will chose a spot for his bathroom until it is too messy and then he will choose another spot. It is important to clean your pet’s cage at least once a week. It’s a rather simple matter; just place him in a hamster ball to let him role around while you work, and dump his bedding into a bag to throw away.
Then wash out the cage in a bathtub and dry it off (make sure it’s good and dry before you put your hamster back in) remember to clean out his den and remove the uneaten food as it will become moldy over time. Then just place in new bedding and refill his water, even if it isn’t empty.
Other Considerations
Think twice before getting a second hamster to put in with your first. Hamsters, especial males and dwarves, are territorial and may actually kill each other if they don’t get along. If you get a male and female, you may end up with more pets than you bargained for. If your hamster gets loose and you can’t fid him, clear your floor and lay out some strong smelling food, usually fresh cut fruit, and wait.
Your little friend will come out of his hiding place to investigate sooner or later, and you can put him back in his home. Hamsters are great pets for kids to teach them responsibility and how to care for other living creatures. And their cute too, so enjoy!
