Hamster fun and information
Hamster fun and information
Hamster fun and information
Hamster fun and information
Hamster fun and information
LIFE SPAN OF A DWARF HAMSTER By Christina Stephens
Hamsters seem to always have cheeks full of food; after all, their name does come from German word “hamstern,” which means “hoard.” Dwarf hamsters, the tiniest in the hamster species, are similar in size to mice. Despite their small stature, these nocturnal cuties are popular pets for children and human night owls alike.
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of a dwarf hamster is one to two years. However, each species and individual hamster is unique. Growing up to 2 to 3 inches and tipping the scales at up to 2 ounces, dwarf hamsters come in three different species: Russian, Chinese and Roborovski. Chinese dwarf hamsters can live up to three years, while Russian and Roborovski tend to live only two. Providing the proper care as an owner can help ensure the longest, healthiest life possible for your dwarf hamster.
Housing
Dwarf hamsters are social creatures and enjoy living in pairs. Make sure to get two same-sex hamsters to prevent breeding, though. Since dwarf hamsters are much smaller than traditional, or Syrian hammies, it’s important to get a cage with little space in between the bars — lest they slip out. Mice cages are a good option. Dwarf hammies are active, and those with the most space to play and climb will seem happy and healthy. Cover the floor of their habitat with wood shavings and paper bedding for nesting and staying warm; Russian dwarf hamsters are particularly sensitive to the cold. These little guys also love a separate bedroom area where they can cuddle and feel more secure as they snooze. Clean the cage once a week to ensure optimal, hygienic conditions.
Proper Nutrition
Dwarf hamsters do well on a quality hamster mix containing seeds, grains, cracked corn and pellets. You may supplement their diet with small amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables, like apple, spinach, lettuce and carrot, however not too much. An abundance of fresh foods can cause upset stomach. The ASPCA recommends giving your hammy fresh food every two or three days and fresh, clean water daily. Avoid feeding raw kidney beans, onions, raw potato, rhubarb, chocolate or candy, as they’re unhealthy and even toxic.
Potential Health Problems
Hamster teeth are constantly growing, so provide wooden toys, mineral stones or treats for them to grind on. Without these, their teeth may grow so long they irritate or even start growing into their chins. Dwarf hamsters are also prone to respiratory problems, including colds, which they can catch from their owners. Signs of illness include dull-looking eyes, matted fur, weight loss, shaking, runny nose, prolonged inactivity and diarrhea. Seek veterinary care if your hammy shows signs of illness.
Hamster fun and information
HOW TO INTRODUCE A FEMALE HAMSTER TO A MALE…
If you want to give your boy hamster a female companion, you have to follow certain protocols. Otherwise you could create a dangerous situation. Hamsters can be territorial little critters and, while they may not pose much of a threat to you, they can do serious damage to one another. The breed, sex and place of introduction are all important things to consider when introducing two hamsters, especially ones of opposite sex.
Let your hamster go on living the bachelor life if he is of a breed that doesn’t appreciate company. Syrian hamsters, namely, are territorial; they simply refuse to live with others. If you want to give him a companion, the pair will have to live in separate cages.
Place your female hamster in the male’s cage and monitor them as they interact. Generally, females are more aggressive than males, so putting a female in with a male makes him less of a threat — he is in his own territory, not invading hers. The hamsters may fight a little at first, but if it seems excessive or one-sided, remove the female and cage her separately.
Set up a new, fresh, never-used cage for the hamsters to share. Sometimes, when one hamster is introduced to another in an existing habitat, territorial fighting can prevent them from cohabiting. If the environment is neutral ground, however, it makes this type of fighting somewhat less likely. Hide a few small treats in the cage and introduce both hamsters at the same time. By the time they’re done hunting treats, they’ll have become used to one another.