Caring For A Hamster
Housing
Hamsters are not hardy animals and cannot live outside. Ideal housing for hamsters are cages or terraria approximately 60cm wide x 30cm wide. Russian and Chinese hamsters can squeeze through tiny spaces and are better in a terraria with a tightly fitted wire lid. The cage should ideally be placed out of the sun and sheltered from draughts.
Bedding
Wood shavings are ideal for hamsters, although sawdust is better for longhaired breeds as it doesn’t get tangled in their coats. The cage should be completely stripped out and scrubbed, ideally once a week. Your hamster will enjoy having shredded paper to burrow and snuggle in and you can litter train your hamster as they tend to urinate in only one area.
Nutrition
Hamsters are omnivores and require some animal protein in their diet. The easiest way to do this is with a complete food specifically for hamsters, which provides all the nutrients in the correct amounts and proportions. Water must be accessible at all times and bottles are often easier to keep clean, however hamsters do appreciate being given a bowl of water occasionally so they can splash about and wash.
Dental
Dental problems are a major health issue for hamsters. Hamsters need to eat fibre to wear down their continuously growing teeth. If teeth don’t get worn down enough this can cause drooling and lack of appetite. Your vet will be able to advise you on your pet’s teeth.
Neutering
Neutering hamsters is not something that many vets will do due to their short lifespan and size. To prevent an unwanted population explosion keep them in single sex pairs or groups. (Although some species of hamsters are best kept alone. Go to company for further information.). (link to company)
Behavioural problems
Hamsters are very social animals and as such their body language is a very good barometer of how they are feeling! Hamsters love to gnaw and if they don’t have items to gnaw on such as wooden blocks, they may take this out on your carpet or sofa. If your hamster stops gnawing then it is good sign that there is something wrong and you should take him to a vet.
Exercise
Regular exercise is important to keep your pet fit and prevent boredom, which could lead to behavioural problems. Items for the cage, such as hamster wheels, boxes and tubes are fun for both you and your pet.
Grooming
Hamsters will spend a large amount of their time grooming themselves. You can also groom your hamster with a brush or comb, if needed, and longhaired pets will need grooming daily otherwise their coat will quickly become matted. You should also check a hamster’s eyes, ears, nose, mouth, bottom and claws daily.
Handling
Before attempting to handle your hamster, let him become accustomed to you by feeding out of your hand and stroking him. Once he’s happy doing this, gently scoop him up with both hands. It is best, once you have picked him up, to hold him against you or keep him on your lap.
Company
Syrian hamsters are best when living alone, as they can fight but Russian and Chinese hamsters should be kept in social groups, as living as a pair or group of three allows them to interact and perform normal social behaviour. Make sure that they are single sex groups, otherwise you could end up with a family!
Regular health checks
Your vet can carry out a ‘nose to tail’ MOT but you can play a role too by following the guidelines below to keep an eye on your hamster’s health, help him to stay in tip top condition and live a long and healthy life:
- Look out for changes in your hamster’s food consumption, drinking and toilet habits. Does he have less energy or is he slower in getting up or jumping? Monitor your hamster’s faeces for colour and consistency
- Rub your hands over your hamster’s body including his head, legs and feet to check for any lumps or bumps or anything stuck in his claws. Check your hamster’s coat quality and whether any dandruff or hair loss is evident. Is your hamster scratching, chewing or biting excessively?
- Check your pet’s nose, eyes and ears for any abnormalities or discharge. Your hamster’s nose should be moist, the corners of his eyes should be free of discharge and his ears should be clean
- Regularly examine your hamster’s mouth for signs of disease and overgrown teeth
- Monitor your hamster’s body condition by running your hands over his ribs and backbone. If he is losing weight or is overweight, it’s advisable to take him to the vet
