Considering a New Pet: The Hamster

Have you ever thought about bringing a new pet home? Perhaps your kids are constantly asking for one. Dogs and cats are often the first options we think of, but they require a lot of care and can be expensive. However, there are other excellent options such as a hamster. Hamsters require less maintenance and are easy to care for, as long as you follow specific care guidelines. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about this small rodent.

Hamster Cage

Your hamster's cage should be made of metal, with a solid and secure base of at least 150 square inches. Aquariums and plastic habitats can also be used, as long as they provide a safe, escape-proof home for your hamster.

Cage Placement

Place the cage in a safe, well-ventilated area away from strong winds, direct sunlight, and other pets. Hamsters can be territorial, so it's recommended to house them alone to avoid fights.

Cage Accessories

Most hamsters enjoy running on exercise wheels and playing with toys. There are also blocks or chew sticks specifically designed for rodents for enrichment and to help keep their teeth healthy.

Cage Cleaning

Hamsters are very clean and organize their cages into sectors for eating, sleeping, and relieving themselves. Keep this in mind when preparing your cage. Clean the cage and bedding once a week by removing all its contents and washing it with soap and water. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap.

Hamster Care

Diet and Hydration

Plan your hamster's diet and hydration carefully. Install the feeder away from the sleeping area to prevent confusion. Feed your hamster twice a day with prepared hamster food, supplemented with fruits and vegetables (never more than 20% of its diet).

Ensure your hamster’s water bottle is always full to avoid dehydration. Change the water daily and ensure it doesn't touch the bedding at the bottom of the cage, as this could facilitate the growth of fungi.

Grooming and Health

Hamsters are generally very clean animals and groom themselves, so there's no need to bathe or comb them. Keep an eye out for health issues such as sores on their feet, blood in their urine, loss of appetite, loose stools, overgrown front teeth, bald patches in their fur, wheezing, and a runny nose.

Are Hamsters Good Pets for Children?

Hamsters are nocturnal and prefer to sleep during the day, which may not align with a child's schedule. They also require gentle handling and may bite. Therefore, they may not be suitable pets for small children. Older children who can respect the hamster's needs and have a later bedtime may enjoy having a hamster as a pet.

For more information, talk to one of our Pet Experts and get customized advice by submitting a request on our Mavyn website.