The Difficulty of Keeping a Hamster Depends on Mastering Proper Care Methods
While hamsters are small and have low food intake, neglecting their specific needs can lead to health issues or even death. Below are key considerations to keep in mind:
I. Living Environment Requirements
Cage Size: At least 47cm × 30cm for dwarf hamsters, or over 60cm in length for Syrian hamsters (also known as golden hamsters). A cage that’s too small may trigger anxiety or self-harming behaviors.
Essential Setup: Must include a quiet exercise wheel (with a diameter of ≥17cm), a hideout (made of ceramic or wood), and 5cm-thick bedding (such as wood shavings or paper fluff).
Light & Ventilation: Avoid direct sunlight and loud noises; maintain a stable temperature between 20–28°C.
II. Diet Management
Specialized Staple Food: Choose branded hamster food (formulated for their species). Avoid bulk food mixes or human foods—especially those high in salt, sugar, or spice.
Treat Control: Offer treats like sunflower seeds or mealworms no more than twice a week. Fresh fruits and vegetables should not exceed 1 teaspoon per day.
Safe Drinking Water: Provide only cooled boiled water or purified water. Never use tap water or milk.
III. Daily Care
Cleaning Method: Use bath sand (instead of water baths) for grooming. Replace bedding once a week and remove waste daily.
Solitary Housing Rule: Hamsters have strong territorial instincts; housing multiple hamsters together often leads to fights.
Interaction Tips: Be patient when building trust—never forcefully grab or hold your hamster.
IV. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mini Cages: Insufficient space can cause depression or cage-biting.
Inappropriate Teeth Grinding: Do not use items like bamboo chopsticks. Provide dedicated chew toys or mineral blocks for teeth maintenance.
Ignoring Nocturnality: Hamsters sleep during the day—avoid disturbing them. Tolerate mild noise during their active nighttime hours.
Hamsters are not difficult to care for if you strictly follow the above guidelines. For beginners, Syrian hamsters are recommended first (they tend to have gentler personalities), and it’s important to prepare all necessary supplies in advance.