Make a Hamster Your Next Pet
Hamsters are one of the hottest family pets. There are 2 basic types, the larger Syrian or Golden pet hamster and the smaller Dwarf Hamster. The basic differences between the 2 are as follows:
- Golden Hamster: Bigger makes them easier to care, particularly when handled by children. The Teddy Bear likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Tiny size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live entirely alone or in pairs.
Whichever hamster is selected, the habitats ,and diet, are largely identical. Both types are nocturnal, and wake just after dawn. This is also the best time to play with and feed a hamster. A healthy pet will live for 2 to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster look for signs such as discharge in 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 wet. A damp tail area indicates a condition called wet tail. Do not buy any hamsters housed with an animal suffering from this contagious disease.
Dietary Habits
Pet hamsters are vegetarians, but will eat a mealworm or meat if given the opportunity. The ideal diet includes nutritionally fortified pellets, some seeds, and fresh vegetables. About two times every week a hamster should also eat some fruit as a treat. Seeds should be limited because they are rich in fats and can contribute to obesity. Deflect feeding any processed chocolate, fried food or human food.
Hamster Habitats
Pet hamster cages come in many sizes and shapes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. A secure lid is essential since hamsters are excellent escape artists. If buying a wire cage for a smaller dwarf hamster make sure the wires are close together in order to avoid an unexpected escape Convenient starter kits are available that include everything you need.
Handling Your Pet
Pet hamsters can be trained to be picked up and trained. The goal is to get them used to the idea when they are young. Get your hamster used to your hand by placing it into the cage. After they become used to your hand and your scent. After a while place a treat in the palm of your hand without lifting the pet hamster out of the cage. Once the Hamster is comfortable, it should be easy to move to the next step by lifting your hand out of the cage.
If you take excellent care of your pet hamster, including a good diet, you can get years of pleasure from your hamster.
- Golden Hamster: Bigger makes them easier to care, particularly when handled by children. The Teddy Bear likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Tiny size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live entirely alone or in pairs.
Whichever hamster is selected, the habitats ,and diet, are largely identical. Both types are nocturnal, and wake just after dawn. This is also the best time to play with and feed a hamster. A healthy pet will live for 2 to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster look for signs such as discharge in 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 wet. A damp tail area indicates a condition called wet tail. Do not buy any hamsters housed with an animal suffering from this contagious disease.
Dietary Habits
Pet hamsters are vegetarians, but will eat a mealworm or meat if given the opportunity. The ideal diet includes nutritionally fortified pellets, some seeds, and fresh vegetables. About two times every week a hamster should also eat some fruit as a treat. Seeds should be limited because they are rich in fats and can contribute to obesity. Deflect feeding any processed chocolate, fried food or human food.
Hamster Habitats
Pet hamster cages come in many sizes and shapes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. A secure lid is essential since hamsters are excellent escape artists. If buying a wire cage for a smaller dwarf hamster make sure the wires are close together in order to avoid an unexpected escape Convenient starter kits are available that include everything you need.
Handling Your Pet
Pet hamsters can be trained to be picked up and trained. The goal is to get them used to the idea when they are young. Get your hamster used to your hand by placing it into the cage. After they become used to your hand and your scent. After a while place a treat in the palm of your hand without lifting the pet hamster out of the cage. Once the Hamster is comfortable, it should be easy to move to the next step by lifting your hand out of the cage.
If you take excellent care of your pet hamster, including a good diet, you can get years of pleasure from your hamster.
About the Author:
Cathy "cat" Doggins is the writer of many articles on hamster food, diet and cages. When not writing and lecturing about these wonderful rodents, Cathy can be found caring for many pet lizards and as a volunteer at a local no kill pet shelter.
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