Hamster Care Notes

 

There are many different species of hamster, all with different needs. The most common pet hamster are:

  • Syrian (Mesocricetus auratus)

  • Roborovski dwarf (Phodopus roborovskii)

  • Chinese dwarf (Cricetulus griseus)

  • Russian dwarf (Phodopus sungorus)

 

Housing your pet hamster

  • Most cages you will see advertised as suitable by pet shops are unfortunately far too small for any hamster.

  • The absolute minimum size a cage should be for any hamster is 50cm x 80cm but bigger is always better!! A lot of other rescues recommend minimum 50cm x 100cm.

  • Syrian hamsters are solitary animals and should always be kept alone as they will fight with any other hamsters.

  • Dwarf hamsters can either be kept in be kept in pair or groups as long as they are the same sex and have been brought up together from a young age or they can live happily alone as long as they are provided with plenty of enrichment.

 
 

Hamster Diet

  • For their diet. It is generally recommended to use a good commercial hamster pellet mixed with fresh veg daily.

  • Hamsters are omnivores which means they will eat insects so dry meal worms can be offered as a treat. Dry or fresh fruit and veg and also make great treats for your hamster.

 

Hamster Wheels

The size of your hamsters wheel is more important than you realise. Wheels that are too small are very uncomfortable for hamsters to use. Overtime they can cause spinal issues.

The minimum size wheels are:

  • Syrian hamster: 12”

  • Dwarf hamster: 8”

Wheels that are made out of metal bars or mesh should also not be used as the bars can hurt their feet and cause injury.


 

Bedding

Is is recommended to have an area of bedding that is at least 6 inches deep to allow the hamster to burrow.

  • Paper Based – Care fresh, Kaytee, Fitch, Unscented Toilet Paper

  • Aspen Bedding

  • Hemp Bedding

  • Spruce Bedding

  • Soft Hay - Timothy Hay, Orchard Grass