Hamster 101
The basics of hamster care are a cage which can either be an aquarium or a typical wire cage. Some people like aquariums over wire cages and vice versa. We at Tershonian Hamsters have found that the Space Station or Safari cages are very nice. No hard corners to clean out, plenty of air circulation and a very quiet wheel. Additions can easily be added on as well. Although the Space Station or Safari cages are not ideal for raising litters unless you drill a hole lower then the given water bottle hole. We noticed that the babies are unable to reach the water bottle when placed at the given position on the cage and we needed to lower the bottle which required a drilled hole.
Bedding is a big concern and all hamster owners should be encouraged to use aspen shavings or Carefresh. Any other bedding, cedar or pine is just not healthy for your hamsters. These wood shavings cause major respiratory concerns and will shorten the life of your hamster. Eye problems as well as skin problems have also been documented due to use of wood shavings.
Food is the easy part. Any brand of hamster food whether purchased in bulk or pre-packaged, is more than suitable. Be aware of giving too many sunflower seeds, as they are loaded with fat. A fat hamster is an unhealthy hamster. Lab blocks are also a great item and can be found in most pet food suppliers. Fresh vegetables should also be offered such as sweet potatoes, carrot and even fruit such as an apple but only once a week. Too much fresh food can cause loose stools which can affect the health of your hamsters. Also make sure that the fruit or vegetable is thoroughly washed. Avoid lettuce and cabbage which can be harmful.
Fresh water should be offered daily in either a water bottle (the preferred method) or a small bowl.
Nesting material should be provided to help keep you hamster warm. Please stay away from store bought nesting materials. They sometimes contain material that can get wrapped around a leg and cutting off circulation. The result being a lost leg. Paper towels work best. Toilet paper is often too thin and can get caught up in the hamsters check pouches.
Toys are important to add stimulation to your hamsters environment. Toys can be as simple as a toilet paper tube which the hamster will enjoy climbing through and chewing on. Other toys include an exercise wheel or exercise ball. The later needs constant attention to make sure the hamster is safe! The exercise wheel should also be large enough for the hamster to comfortably run on. The Space Station or Safari wheels are excellent and are easy to clean and are quiet.
A clean cage needs to be maintained to make your hamsters home a health home. The cage needs to be clean out once a week and washed in hot soapy water to remove any smell or debris that might have accumulated. If these suggestions are followed, your hamster should be smiling^_^