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| This photo is not mine. :D Source: http://www.zuzafun.com/cute-hamster |
Background
Hamsters are first found in Syria; however, they are native to many other areas as well. Its name, hamster, derived from the german word, "hamstern." They are one of the most popular pets, but there are special requirements on taking care of these little fellows. Hamsters only live for a few years. For example, the Syrian hamster have a lifespan of two to three years. Moreover,these creatures are nocturnal; therefore, they are not fit for little kids who are awake in the day. They tend to be active in running, digging, and scratching at night, so if this is disturbing to one, that person should reconsider keeping a hamster. Hamsters will bite especially when bothered while they are sleeping.
Costs
They need a cage, food, toys and treats, and litter and bedding materials. According to ASPCA, the prices are around the following:
- a cage is $35
- food is around $50 per year
- $20 is spent for toys and treats annually
- $220 is for the litter and bedding materials per year
Housing
One must note the hamsters preferrences while selecting a cage. Syrian hamsters like to live alone so one hamster per cage is a must! Dwarf hamsters on the other hand can live in pairs; however, one must be careful of putting a female and a male together because they breed rapidily contributing to a large litter. "Keep your Syrian hamster in a wire cage or a ten-gallon aquarium with a wire-mesh top. The fancier cages with tubes, tunnels and hideaways are good, too, but they generally cost more and are harder to clean. If you have space for a larger cage, it will be much appreciated. Dwarf hamsters can be kept in a cage made for mice. The enclosure should be placed away from direct sunlight and drafts, and lined with an absorbent bedding such as timothy hay, aspen shavings, shredded paper or pelleted bedding. Do not use pine or cedar chips, as the fumes from these products can be harmful to your pets. Hamsters are big on exercise, so please make sure yours has a wheel for running. Hamsters also like to hide and sleep inside enclosed spaces, so you’ll need a small box with an entrance hole or a small flower pot for this purpose. And they love crawling through tubes, which can be homemade (empty cardboard tubes from paper towels and toilet paper!) or purchased from a pet supply store. And finally, you may notice that your hammy is a major creature of comfort. Remember to regularly give him small pieces of paper towel or napkin to shred and make a nest with."
Diet
They eat seeds, grains, and cracked corn and pellets, the mixture can be bought at pet stores. Try to replace its food every two or three days, make sure to look at its food container carefully because at a glance its food bowl may seem full but there may only be empty shells of seeds. Also, it is important to clean the leftovers before it spoils. Do not give hamsters raw kidney beans, onions, junk food, chocolate, candy, rhubarb, and raw potato! Remember to change the water daily and that it is available at all times. Also, check the corners of its cages for more leftovers or eaten food.
General Care
The owner must remove its droppings, spoiled food, and uneaten food daily. Moreover, it is important to remove all of the cages bedding and replace it. The bottom of the cage must be washed with hot, soapy water as well. Have a small block of wood or twig in the cage for the hamster to chew on. Make sure the twig or wood is not treated with pesticides, chemicals, or paint. The owner has to gradually let the hamster get used to him or her. "Start by feeding your hamster treats; once he’s comfortable accepting treats from your hand, you can gently and securely pick him up. Hold him for a short time at first, and then gradually increase your time with him." The hamster can play outside of its cage once it is hand-tamed. Make sure the area that the hamsters going to run around is secure, enclosed, and the owner is there to supervise. Hide anything the hamster can knaw on and harm itself, such as electrical wires.
Veterinary Care
Dull-looking eyes, matted fur, weight loss, shaking, runny nose and diarrhea are symptoms to watch out for! They can also get sick from their owners so be sure to watch them to see if they are unhealthy; you would not want your little buddy to be no longer by your side so PLEASE! Please go visit a vet when you see your hamster being different from usual.
This link has a pdf page on taking care of hamsters, please refer to it. :D http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/small-pet-care/hamster-care.aspx
Please note that this is not an extensive research on hamsters, please feel free to research more on this pet. Thank you!
Sources: " ASPCA | Hamster Care." ASPCA | The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Feb. 2012. <http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/small-pet-care/hamster-care.aspx>.
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