Quick Guide to New Hamster Care

Choosing the right hamster

• Research different hamster breeds and choose one that suits your lifestyle (Syrian Hamster, Dwarf Hamster, Roborussian Hamster, etc.).
• Find a healthy hamster from a reputable breeder or rescue center.
• Avoid buying hamsters from pet stores with poor living conditions.
  
  

Appropriate living environment

• Choose a spacious, well-ventilated cage with horizontal bars for climbing.
• Provide, for example, aspen wood shavings or paper-based bedding as mattress material.
• Place the cage in a quiet, draft-free area away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes.
  
  

Nutritious Diet

• Provide high-quality hamster pellets or seed mixtures as a staple diet.
• Provide fresh fruits and vegetables as occasional snacks.
• Always make sure your hamster has access to clean, fresh water.
  
  

Plenty of toys and activities

• Include exercise wheels, tunnels, hiding places and climbing structures to provide mental and physical stimulation.
• Change toys regularly to prevent boredom.
• Hamsters love to gnaw, so provide safe chew toys.
  
  

Proper Handling

• Approach your hamster gently to get them used to your scent and presence.
• Use slow, steady movements so as not to frighten them.
• Never wake a sleeping hamster during the day as they are nocturnal.
  
  

Sanitation and Cleaning

• Perform daily spot cleaning to remove waste.
• Change the mattress and clean the entire cage at least once a week.
• Wash food and water containers regularly.
  
  

Health and Veterinary Care

• Watch for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite or changes in coat quality.
• Find a veterinarian who specializes in small animal care and schedule regular checkups.
• Be prepared to deal with common health issues such as dental problems and mites.
  
  

Safe Playtime

• Provide hamster balls or safe play enclosures for supervised exercise outside the cage.
• Make sure the play area is free of dangerous objects or other pets.
  
  

Socializing and Taming

• Spend time near the cage talking to the hamster to build trust.
• Introduce handling and taming sessions gradually to make the hamster feel comfortable.
  
  

Record Keeping

• Keep a record of your hamster's diet, behavior, and any health issues.
• Record their weight to monitor overall health.
  
  

Lifespan and Commitment

• Understand that hamsters have a relatively short lifespan, usually 2-3 years.
• Prepare for a long-term commitment and provide ongoing care throughout their life.