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:
- Teddy Bear Hamster: Bigger makes them easier to deal, particularly when handled by children. The Golden likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Tiny size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live alone or in pairs.
Whichever hamster is selected, the diet, and habitats, are largely the same. They are nocturnal, and wake just after dawn. This is also the perfect time to play with and feed a hamster. A well cared for pet will live for up to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster check for signs such as discharge from the ears, eyes or nose. The teeth should be properly formed, and the rump should not be damp. A wet tail area indicates a disease called wet tail. Avoid any hamsters caged with an animal suffering from this contagious disease.
Hamster Food
Hamsters are salad munchers, but will eat a mealworm or cooked chicken if given the opportunity. The best diet includes nutritionally fortified pellets, some seeds, and vegetables. About 2 times per week a hamster should also eat some fruit. Seeds should be limited because they are high in fat and can lead to obesity. Debar feeding any refined human food.
Hamster Habitats
Pet hamster cages come in many styles and sizes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. Make sure that any lid is escape proof. If buying a wire cage for a smaller dwarf hamster make sure the wires are close together in order to avoid an unexpected escape Pet stores sell starter kits that include everything needed.
Handling Your Pet
Pet hamsters can be taught to be handled. Training starts when they are young. Start slow by introducing your hand into the cage. Once they get used to the hand and your scent. After a while place a treat in the palm of your hand without lifting the hamster out of the 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 pleasure from your hamster.
- Teddy Bear Hamster: Bigger makes them easier to deal, particularly when handled by children. The Golden likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Tiny size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live alone or in pairs.
Whichever hamster is selected, the diet, and habitats, are largely the same. They are nocturnal, and wake just after dawn. This is also the perfect time to play with and feed a hamster. A well cared for pet will live for up to 3 years.
When purchasing a hamster check for signs such as discharge from the ears, eyes or nose. The teeth should be properly formed, and the rump should not be damp. A wet tail area indicates a disease called wet tail. Avoid any hamsters caged with an animal suffering from this contagious disease.
Hamster Food
Hamsters are salad munchers, but will eat a mealworm or cooked chicken if given the opportunity. The best diet includes nutritionally fortified pellets, some seeds, and vegetables. About 2 times per week a hamster should also eat some fruit. Seeds should be limited because they are high in fat and can lead to obesity. Debar feeding any refined human food.
Hamster Habitats
Pet hamster cages come in many styles and sizes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. Make sure that any lid is escape proof. If buying a wire cage for a smaller dwarf hamster make sure the wires are close together in order to avoid an unexpected escape Pet stores sell starter kits that include everything needed.
Handling Your Pet
Pet hamsters can be taught to be handled. Training starts when they are young. Start slow by introducing your hand into the cage. Once they get used to the hand and your scent. After a while place a treat in the palm of your hand without lifting the hamster out of the 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 pleasure from your hamster.
About the Author:
Cathy "cat" Doggins is the writer of many articles on animals like these. When not writing and lecturing about these wonderful rodents, Cathy can be found caring for many pets and as a volunteer at a local no kill pet shelter.
No comments:
Post a Comment