Both young and old enjoy hamsters as pets all over the world. They are a popular option for family pets because of their charming playfulness and lively demeanor. When considering a hamster as a pet for a small child, keep in mind that the typical lifespan of a hamster is 1-3 years. Coping with the death of a pet hamster can be a difficult but essential life lesson for a young child, and can learn responsibility while caring for the hamster's day-to-day needs.
Syrian hamsters and dwarf hamsters are the most popular pet hamsters. Syrian hamsters were bred in various breeds, including teddy bear hamsters, golden hamsters, and fancy hamsters. Syrian hamsters grow to about 7 inches in length when fully grown, with females slightly larger than males. The most important thing to understand about Syrian hamsters is that they are incredibly territorial, so only one Syrian hamster should be kept in a cage. If bred with other Syrian hamsters, they will fight to the death!
Dwarf hamsters are smaller and, more importantly, can live without fighting in the same cage as other dwarf hamsters. Dwarf hamsters are a popular option as they are quite docile and sociable when properly handled.
Hamsters are very sensitive to stress, so it's important to make your new home trip as enjoyable as possible. Pet stores usually provide small cardboard boxes to carry hamsters into the house, but if possible you should bring a larger container of hay and hamster food.
Before you go out to buy a hamster, you need to buy and organize a hamster cage so that it is ready and waiting for you when you get home. Make sure you have enough bedding and nesting materials, food plates, water bottles and toys. Preparing everything can greatly reduce stress on your hamster.
When choosing a wire cage for hamsters, make sure the spacing between the wires is less than 0.5 centimeters. Otherwise your hamster can squeeze it out!
The location of your hamster cage is just as important as the type of cage you buy. Because hamsters are nocturnal animals, they sleep all day. Don't put the cage near a noisy TV, as you need some peace and quiet during the day! Hamsters are sensitive to temperature changes, so avoid direct sunlight and drafts. Even caged, teasing your cat or dog all day will make you a stressed hamster. If you already have other pets, keep this in mind when choosing a place to place your hamster cage.
Hamsters are naturally neat animals, but they should clean their cages once a week. This is a great time to play in the hamster ball as you will need to get the hamster out of the cage while doing this. Remove old bedding material and replace with new bedding. Use a mild disinfectant to remove any strong odors that may remain after cleaning, and make sure the cage is completely dry before changing bedding materials.