Hamster Care Tips

Hamsters are very fun little pets. These little furballs are a very popular choice of pet for children, because they are small, gentle, quiet, and super cute. They’re also easy to care for! However, like any other type of animal, they do have some specific care needs. Good food, fresh water, and a clean, comfy cage are all important, but great hamster care goes a bit further. A local San Antonio, TX vet lists a few tips on this below.

Environment

Keep Hammie’s room and cage between 65 and 75F. If your pint-sized pal gets too cold, he could try to hibernate, which is very dangerous for pets. Overheating, on the other hand, could lead to heatstroke.

Keep Hammie Healthy

Just like other pets, hamsters are susceptible to illness and disease. Watch for signs that something isn’t right. These may include lack of appetite, lethargy, fever, discharge, and diarrhea. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything amiss.

Roommates

Many small animals enjoy having buddies, but hamsters are an exception. While some can have roommates, Syrian hamsters, the most popular kind, absolutely must live alone.

Handle Hammie Gently

Be very careful when you handle Hammie. Never hold your tiny furball by the tail. Also, don’t scoop him up from behind or when he’s sleeping. That will just scare him!

Keep Other Pets Separate

Hammie is a prey animal in the wild, so he’s naturally wired to be frightened and wary of larger animals, like dogs and cats. Keep other pets in separate areas.
Respect Hammie Sleep Schedules

Hamsters are nocturnal by nature, so your tiny buddy will probably spend most of his day sleeping. Let the little guy be. He’ll probably be more active around dusk and dawn. This is when you’ll want to play with him.

Offer Good Foods

Hamsters are small, but they have big appetites. Hammie is also notorious for hiding his favorite morsels and then begging for more. Don’t let your theatrical pet cajole you into overfeeding him.

Avoid Unsafe Foods

Like any other animal, hamsters like treats. It’s fine to give Hammie something special, but be careful to stick with things you know are safe. Avoid giving your tiny pal citrus fruit, grapes or raisins, almonds, peanuts, chocolate, or garlic and onions. Ask your vet for more information.

As your San Antonio, TX veterinary clinic, we’re here to help! Contact us anytime!