Hamster's are solitary creatures that make great pets for people who are looking for a small low-maintenance creature that offers up a cuddly array of love. And although they are relatively easy to care for there are a few key things that every hamster needs.
Photo credit to Hamster Haven Rescue.
Click their name to learn more about this awesome hamster rescue!
Photo credit to Hamster Haven Rescue.
Click their name to learn more about this awesome hamster rescue!
Terrarium: Why choose a terrarium over a typical hamster cage? The commercial hamster cages are filled with lots of little compartments, and although those are great for hamsters, they are very hard to clean and cause unsanitary conditions. There is a lack of an air flow and that also causes respiratory problems. So instead, we suggest you opt for a terrarium with a mesh wire lid. The terrarium allows you to build your own tunneling areas- which makes it easier to clean, and it also allows much better air flow. The bigger the better, but the minimum size for one hamster should be 10 gallons.
Food: In the wild hamsters are great at scavenging for food and will eat (and store away) almost anything they come across. In captivity though, hamsters should be fed a diet largely made up of seeds (grains) and greens, supplemented with fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Because hamsters have a tendency to store unused food, it's that you clean your cage regularly to avoid rot of hidden food.
Water: As with all mammals, hamsters need to drink to stay hydrated. We do not recommend using a bottle for your hamster's water supply as they can easily get clogged and cause dehydration. Rather, we suggest you use a small sturdy heavy bowl and change the water daily. Keep an eye on the dish and if you see bedding inside, change the water out to avoid rot.
Bedding: Unlike gerbils, hamster's are not as apt to dig, so they do not need an immense amount of bedding. About three to four inches of aspen bedding at the bottom of their terrarium will work quite well for them. Avoid getting any evergreen shavings (spruce, cyprus, etc.) because they can cause respiratory problems among rodents.
Tunnels/Hiding Spaces: Hamster's need tunnels for a variety of reasons. They are independent creatures that enjoy seclusion. They like to be alone and feel most comfortable when 'hidden' away. This is why it is very important to keep a variety of tunnels in your hamsters habitat. Decorate your hamster's terrarium with lots of tunnels. You can purchase commercial rodent tunnels from your local pet store or even make your own with paper towel rolls and other round household objects. Hamster's are also nocturnal, so they need dark places to hide and sleep during the day. Make sure you give your hamster a variety of hide-out areas.
Nesting Material: Hamster's enjoy comfort and building nests is one way they stay active and stimulated. Typically they will build nests in their tunnels and 'hut' hideaway areas. Hamster's prefer soft materials such as toilet paper, bath tissue, cotton fabric, and felt. All are great materials to give your hamsters to 'tear up' and nest with. Give your hamster a regular supply of material for them to shred and create nests with.
Chew Toys: Chew toys are a vital part of a hamster's well being because they keep teeth from overgrowing. There are a variety of chew toys on the market today, but you can also supply your own by offering your hamster a branch of a maple, willow, or apple tree (make sure they haven't had pesticides used on them).
Snacks: Snacks helps keep your hamster entertained. In the wild they have a diet made of variety, so it's important that they also have a variety while living as your pet. Feed them bits of fresh fruit, sunflower seeds, and peanuts to keep them happy and healthy! But as with any snack food, overdoing it can lead to health problems. So use your snacks sparingly.