A hamster's big, glittery eyes, fluffy body, and little toes captivate everyone. It makes sense that hamsters are a beloved and well-liked tiny rodent pet. Nevertheless, before you go to a pet store to choose a hamster, there are a few myths and frequently overlooked truths about them that you should be aware of. Considering these crucial factors will assist you in determining if a hamster is the ideal pet for you.
Activity Level: The fact that hamsters are nocturnal animals should be taken into account. Many see a boisterous little animal keeping their hamster wheel company all day long as it runs around it.
Actually, naps happen during the day. Of course, during the day, we will continue to see your pet, but this isn't the busiest time for them.
To ensure that any late-night activities don't keep you up, if you're a light sleeper, we might want to think about where in the home you will put your hamster.
These little fellows are the ideal late-night friends if you're a night owl.
Activity Level: The fact that hamsters are nocturnal animals should be taken into account. Many see a boisterous little animal keeping their hamster wheel company all day long as it runs around it.
Actually, naps happen during the day. Of course, during the day, we will continue to see your pet, but this isn't the busiest time for them.
To ensure that any late-night activities don't keep you up, if you're a light sleeper, we might want to think about where in the home you will put your hamster.
These little fellows are the ideal late-night friends if you're a night owl.
1 - Needs for Space and Cages
While it's usual to see newborn hamsters in pairs at pet shops, many grown hamsters need their own cage because they are territorial. In the unlikely event that your female hamster gives birth, it's critical to provide her with a quiet, private area. A hamster mother who is anxious or upset could harm or devour her young.
If they are introduced correctly, some species, like dwarf hamsters, can coexist.
Additionally, the cage needs to be big enough to include distinct spaces for eating, sleeping, exercising, and using the lavatory.
2 - Cleaning Conditions
It's critical for the health of both you and the hamster to keep the cage clean. You do not want to clean it too frequently either, as that can annoy your new acquaintance.
Once a week, cage cleaning is recommended. Always wear gloves, and be sure to properly wash your hands afterward.
Other cleaning duties include emptying water and food dishes and bottles and maintaining a tidy bathroom for your hamster. It is best to clean your hamster's restroom area on a regular basis and to clean the food or water dishes or bottles once a week. When necessary, replace dirty bedding with new bedding.
Occasionally disassembling the cage entirely and giving it a thorough cleaning using water and soap will help keep the enclosure odor-free and clean.
3 - Materials and price
Even though buying the hamster itself only costs a small amount of money, there are other expenses associated with hamster ownership. Make sure to factor in all of the materials and equipment needed to properly house or maintain a happy hamster when estimating the costs.
They consist of, but are not restricted to, a cage, bedding, toys, tunnels, exercise wheels, water bottles, food dishes, food, and treats.
You should also factor in the possibility of paying veterinary bills if your hamster becomes ill or has other health issues. A veterinarian is needed for conditions like diarrhea, abscesses, respiratory infections, and wet tails.
4 - Youngsters and Hamsters
Despite being thought of as the ideal companion for young children, they aren't always the right size or have adorable qualities. Kids frequently have the ability to squeeze, drop, or startle these delicate animals. This may cause the hamster to become fearful, and frightened or anxious hamsters may bite. Anytime a youngster is playing around with a hamster, it is best to have an adult there to supervise them and gently expose them to handling.
The nocturnal lifestyle of hamsters should also be taken into account. After school, a hamster often goes to sleep, but many kids wish they could play with a cuddly friend during this time. When a hamster wakes up after a slumber, they may become agitated, afraid, or uneasy in their new environment.
Apart from the above-mentioned factors, hamsters are small, swift animals that can become lost. A hamster on the run may get into mischief or suffer injuries from other pets, gnawing through cables, or becoming trapped beneath furniture.
Give your pet a hamster ball to zoom through to avoid this danger. It will offer your hamster a fun opportunity to release some energy in addition to keeping them safe.
5 - Illnesses and health issues
Numerous illnesses and viruses, including lymphocytic choriomeningitis and Salmonella, can be transmitted by hamsters. Both are transferable to people.
Washing the hands after handling the hamster and when performing regular duties like feeding and cleaning the cage is the best approach to preventing being sick. It is imperative to emphasize this to youngsters as well.
Washing your hamster's toys, food and water bowls, or cage in a space used for preparing food is not a good idea. Instead, wash these things outside, in a laundry facility, or in a utility sink.
6 - Lifespan Estimate
The average lifespan of a hamster is only two years. When choosing to bring a hamster into your home, it is important to consider the anguish of losing the animal so suddenly.
Though they're great, engaging pets, hamsters might not be appropriate in every setting. It can be helpful to consider factors such as activity levels, cleaning and cage needs, lifespan, and potential issues before deciding if to get a hamster for the family.
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