Hamsters are one of the most popular pets in families with children. There are two basic types, the larger Syrian or Golden Hamster and the smaller Dwarf Hamster. The basic differences between the two are as follows:
- Teddy Bear Hamster: Larger size makes them easier to handle, particularly when handled by children. The Teddy Bear likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Little size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live entirely alone or in pairs.
Whichever type is selected, the diet, and habitats, are basically identical. Both types are nocturnal, and wake just 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 check the animal for obvious signs such as discharge from the ears, eyes or nose. The teeth should be properly formed, and the back of the body should not be wet. A damp tail area could indicate a disease called wet tail. Do not buy any hamsters caged with an animal suffering from this condition.
Dietary Habits
Rodentss are salad munchers, but will eat a mealworm or meat if given the opportunity. The ideal diet includes nutritionally balanced pellets, some seeds, and greens. About two times per week a hamster should also get some fruit as a treat. Limit seed consumption since they are rich in fats and can contribute to obesity. Annul feeding any refined chocolate, fried food or human food.
Hamster Habitats
Syrian hamster and Dwarf Hamster cages come in many sizes and shapes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid glass aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. Hamsters are escape artists so make sure any cage comes with a secure lid. If buying a wire cage for a smaller dwarf hamster make sure the wires are close together in order to avoid an unexpected escape 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 picked up and trained. Start to train hamsters right after you bring them home. Get the animal used to your scent first by place an article of clothing into the cage. After they become used to your hand and your scent. Next, try scooping the hamster into the middle of the hand 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 good care of your pet hamster, including a healthy diet, you can get years of delight from your pet.
- Teddy Bear Hamster: Larger size makes them easier to handle, particularly when handled by children. The Teddy Bear likes to live alone
- Dwarf Hamster: Little size means it can be easily dropped, causing injury. The Dwarf can live entirely alone or in pairs.
Whichever type is selected, the diet, and habitats, are basically identical. Both types are nocturnal, and wake just 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 check the animal for obvious signs such as discharge from the ears, eyes or nose. The teeth should be properly formed, and the back of the body should not be wet. A damp tail area could indicate a disease called wet tail. Do not buy any hamsters caged with an animal suffering from this condition.
Dietary Habits
Rodentss are salad munchers, but will eat a mealworm or meat if given the opportunity. The ideal diet includes nutritionally balanced pellets, some seeds, and greens. About two times per week a hamster should also get some fruit as a treat. Limit seed consumption since they are rich in fats and can contribute to obesity. Annul feeding any refined chocolate, fried food or human food.
Hamster Habitats
Syrian hamster and Dwarf Hamster cages come in many sizes and shapes. The rule of thumb is bigger is better. Avoid glass aquariums since they might not offer enough ventilation. Hamsters are escape artists so make sure any cage comes with a secure lid. If buying a wire cage for a smaller dwarf hamster make sure the wires are close together in order to avoid an unexpected escape 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 picked up and trained. Start to train hamsters right after you bring them home. Get the animal used to your scent first by place an article of clothing into the cage. After they become used to your hand and your scent. Next, try scooping the hamster into the middle of the hand 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 good care of your pet hamster, including a healthy diet, you can get years of delight from your pet.
About the Author:
The author, Cathy Doggins is the writer of many articles on pet hamsters. When not editing articles about these wonderful rodents, Cathy can be found caring for many cool small pets and learning new things about her beloved pets.
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