Pet Hamster Learning Hub

If you’re thinking about getting a hamster or have recently welcomed one into your home, congratulations! These small, fuzzy creatures make incredible pets. They’re low-maintenance, relatively quiet (except that squeaky hamster wheel), and very affordable. But before you get too attached to your new furry friend, it’s important to learn about how to properly care for them. Here are five essential topics every new hamster owner should learn about:

The Basics

First of all, it’s important to know that there are two main types of hamsters: Syrian hamsters and dwarf hamsters. Syrian hamsters are the most common type of hamster kept as pets and can grow to be about seven inches long. Dwarf hamsters are smaller, only growing to be about four inches long, and are more likely to be social with other hamsters.

If you’re planning on getting a hamster, you’ll need to purchase a cage, bedding, water bottle, food bowl, and some toys. When setting up the cage, make sure that the bar spacing is no more than 1/2 an inch apart so your hamster doesn’t escape. You’ll also want to include a wheel in the cage for your hamster to run on.

Housing

Hamsters should have a home that is at least 450 sq. in. although over 600 sq. in. is recommended. The home should also be tall enough for the hamster to stand up on its hind legs on top of the tallest object without touching the top of the enclosure. A good rule of thumb is to make the home at least 20 inches tall. The home should also have a lid to keep the hamster from escaping.

The home should be filled with bedding, such as shredded paper or wood chips. The bedding should be changed regularly to keep it clean.

Hamsters also need a water bottle and a food bowl. The water bottle should be attached to the side of the cage so that the hamster can drink from it easily. The food bowl should be big enough for the hamster to eat from, but not so big that the hamster can climb into it.

Food & Diet

A healthy diet is essential for any pet, and hamsters are no exception. A typical diet for a hamster should include a mix of fresh vegetables, pellets, and seeds. While hamsters are omnivores, they have a very high metabolism and need a lot of protein to stay healthy. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that about 20% of your hamster’s diet is protein.

When it comes to fresh vegetables, some of the best options for hamsters include broccoli, carrots, and spinach. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly before feeding them to your hamster. As for pellets and seeds, there are a variety of commercial mixes available at pet stores. You can also create your own mix with a variety of different seeds, nuts, and dried fruits. Just be sure to avoid giving your hamster too many sugary snacks.

In addition to a healthy diet, it’s also important to make sure that your hamster has access to fresh water at all times. A water bottle with a sipper tube is the best way to do this. Just be sure to clean it out regularly and refill it as needed.

Environment & Bedding

Your hamster’s home should be a comfortable place for them to nest and sleep. The cage should be big enough for them to explore, and you should provide them with plenty of bedding material. Hamsters are burrowers, so they will appreciate bedding that they can dig into. Avoid using pine or cedar shavings, as these can be harmful to your hamster’s respiratory system. Instead, use aspen shavings or paper-based bedding.

Accessories, Toy & Exercise

Like all pets, hamsters need the proper accessories to stay healthy and happy. A typical hamster setup includes a cage, bedding, food and water dishes, a hiding place, and some toys. Hamsters are active little creatures and love to play. A hamster wheel is a great way to give your furry friend some exercise, but there are plenty of other toys available as well.

You may even think about walls and varying substrate as ways to give variety an opportunity to your furry friend.

The topics and resources in our hamster learning library will help you understand everything you need to know about owning a hamster. From choosing the right type of hamster for your home to understanding their diet and exercise needs, you’ll be able to find all the information you need to ensure your hamster is happy and healthy.

For more information, consult with your veterinarian or a reputable pet care resource.