What type of hamster is best for beginners?
What Type of Hamster Should You Get?
- Syrian Hamster. Syrian hamsters are the proverbial poster-children of what many of us think of when they hear hamster.
- Russian Dwarf Hamster. Social, though they can be nippy, these very small furry friends can exist with members of the same sex and breed as long as they are introduced ...
- Winter White Hamster. ...
- Chinese Hamster. ...
- Roborovski Hamster. ...
Which kind of hamster breed is the best?
Which Type of Hamsters Make the Best Pets?
- Syrian/Teddy Bear Hamsters. These are the most commonly found and bought hamsters. When you think of a hamster, a teddy bear hamster is probably the kind you envision.
- Russian Dwarf Hamsters. Russian hamsters are much smaller than a teddy bear hamster and a little more pricey as well. ...
- Roborovski “Robo” Hamster. Robo hamsters are definitely attractive. ...
What is the most friendly type of hamster?
Which hamster breeds are the friendliest
- Syrian Hamsters. Syrian Hamsters are also known as Golden or Teddy bear hamsters due to their most commonly recurring color and chubby bodies.
- Chinese Hamsters. Chinese hamsters are also called stripped hamsters. They are found in two major variants. ...
- Dwarf Hamsters. Dwarf hamsters are tiny and cute, fitting perfectly in the palm of your hand. ...
What hamster is the nicest?
We would prefer Roborovski, dwarf Hamsters, dwarf winter white Hamster and Syrian hamster as the most cutest. Apart from that, we would also recommend you keep your Hamsters in a large cage where they can find numbers of hiding spots.
Which type of hamster is the friendliest?
The Syrian hamster is the most popular hamster breed, at least partially because it is the friendliest and the largest, but also because it was introduced in the 1940s when lab hamsters were first introduced into captivity and into family homes.
What hamster is best for beginners?
Syrian hamsters are the best hamster breed for kids and make the perfect first pet. Happy, friendly and larger in size, they are easier to handle and train. Docile in nature, they tend not to nip so can be held by small or less experienced children.
How do I pick a hamster?
Hamsters should be bright and curious in attitude and never lethargic. This can be a bit hard to judge in a nocturnal animal like a hamster, but with attention—and perhaps some very gentle prodding—a hamster should wake up and seem to be inquisitive about what is happening. Observe how the hamster reacts to people.
Which hamsters like to be held?
The Syrian hamster is the best species for handling. It is easy to tame, the slowest of the popular pet hamsters, and the least likely to bite. Though docile with humans, they are territorial with other hamsters and should always be housed alone.
Should I get a Syrian or dwarf hamster?
Syrian hamsters are the friendlier of the two hamster breeds. They have sweet personalities, are easy to handle, and rarely bite. Dwarf hamsters, meanwhile, are more easily startled and are more prone to nip. If you have small children, getting a Syrian hamster is probably the better choice.
What is the calmest hamster breed?
Although many Syrian hammies are indeed very tame, friendly and relaxed, the NetVet Veterinary Resources of Washington University website indicates that Russian dwarf hamsters may actually be calmer and more docile than the larger Syrian species.
Is it better to get a male or female hamster?
The National Hamster Council reports some of its breeders claim male hamsters are overall easier to handle and more friendly. Female hamsters generally tend to be more aggressive than the males, but the level of aggressiveness will vary by each individual animal.
Are Syrian hamsters good for beginners?
The Syrian hamster, also known as the golden hamster, is among the most popular choices for small pets. It's generally easy to tame, fun to watch, and fairly low-maintenance, making it a good pet for beginners.
Important Syrian Hamster Facts
However, there are some important things to know about the Syrian hamster before you considering bringing one home to be a family pet.Syrian hamste...
Dwarf Campbell Russian Hamsters
There are two popular breeds of dwarf hamsters. Both are considered to be small hamster breeds.The first type is Phodopus campbelli, or the dwarf C...
Important Cambell’S Russian Dwarf Hamster Facts
There are a few important facts about the Campbell’s dwarf hamster you should know.They are more high-strung than other hamster breeds. This hamste...
Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamsters
At one time, biologists thought that the dwarf winter white Russian hamster, or Phodopus sungorus, was a sub-species of the dwarf Campbell Russian...
Important Winter White Dwarf Hamster Facts
Here are a few handy facts to know about the dwarf Winter White hamster.The safest habitat is an aquarium. These tiny little hamsters rarely grow m...
Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters
Phodopus roborovski, or the Roborovski hamster, is both the smallest hamster breed and undoubtedly the fastest. These incredibly petite dwarf hamst...
Important Robo Hamster Facts
Here are some helpful facts about the Robo hamster.You won’t be able to handle them much. The reason for this is not because they can’t be tamed, b...
Important Chinese Hamster Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the Chinese hamster.They are best housed alone. While this hamster is timid and docile around people, they ca...
Further Reading and Resources
1. Foran, J., “Caring for Your Hamster,” Weigl Publishers, 2003. 2. Bradford, A., “Hamster Facts: Diet, Habits & Types of Hamsters,” Live Science,...
What is the most popular pet hamster?
The Syrian hamster, Mesocricetus auratus, is also commonly called either the teddy bear hamster or the golden hamster. These are easily the most popular pet hamsters of all. They most likely owe their popularity to their early introduction into the United States in 1942.
Why are hamsters so popular?
They are the most popular of the big hamster breeds. The main reason for this is because they almost never nip and are very easy to handle. Their sweet personalities will quickly convince you that the Syrian hamster is the nicest hamster breed of all.
What is the name of the dwarf hamster?
Like its counterpart, the dwarf Winter White Russian hamster also has several names. These include: the Djungarian hamster (after a region in Mongolia where it lives) and the Siberian hamster (after a region in Russia where it lives). However, this doesn’t prevent the two breeds from getting easily confused.
How big can a Syrian hamster get?
Syrian hamsters are the largest hamster breed. They can grow to be seven inches long! These hamsters’ relatively large size also means that Syrian hamsters need larger hamster wheels and bigger cages so they can move about and exercise. Syrian hamsters can be short haired or long haired.
How to care for a Campbell's Russian dwarf hamster?
Campbell’s Russian Dwarf Hamster Health and Care. You will need to take care when choosing a habitat. These teensy hamsters can slip between wider cage bars, or worse, get stuck. So be sure you choose a habitat with suitably close-set bars for your hamster’s safety. Campbell’s dwarf hamsters have a natural coat color.
Why does a Chinese hamster look like a mouse?
To some, the Chinese hamster looks more like a mouse than a hamster. This is because of its long, lean body and mouse-like facial features.
How big do Chinese hamsters get?
Size-wise, they can grow as long as four inches.
What is the most popular hamster breed?
The 5 Popular Hamster Breeds for Pet Owners. 1. Syrian Hamster. As the most common of all types of pet hamsters, Syrians are also the largest and longest-lived. Known as the “golden hamster” or “teddy bear hamster”, they are renowned for their friendly demeanors and the ease with which they can be trained.
Where are hamsters native to?
They are native to Northern Russia, China, and Central Asia. Less popular as a pet, this breed is easily startled and tends to bite when scared. 4. Winter White Hamster. The last of three breeds of Russian Dwarf hamsters, these snow-white rodents are native to Southwest Siberia and Eastern Kazakhstan.
What is the difference between a Chinese hamster and a dwarf hamster?
The most notable visual difference is that the Chinese has a much longer tail than any other breed of hamster.
How big is a Campbell's Hamster?
3. Campbell’s Hamster. Featured Image Credit: Alexander theo redgrave, Wikimedia Commons. Size: 3.5-4.5 inches.
Where do Russian dwarf hamsters come from?
Their shorter life span is mostly a result of their tendency towards developing diabetes. They are native to Northern Russia, China, and Central Asia.
Where do Chinese hamsters come from?
Native to Mongolia and Northern China, the Chinese hamster tends to be very sociable and sweet with its owners. However, they need much more stimulation and activity than other hamsters, which is often why they are a less popular option as a pet.
Can you keep a hamster as a pet?
Did you know that all these different hamster breeds were available to keep as pets? While individual hamsters can certainly possess their own unique personalities, choosing a breed whose temperament fits in your lifestyle is a great first step when considering adopting a hamster. We hope that you find the perfect hamster for your home!
Which hamster is the cutest?
Due to its incredibly tiny size, the Robo hamster is considered by many to be the cutest hamster breed of all. However, owing to the same size, they are better suited for older children.
What is the largest hamster?
The Syrian hamster, also referred to as the teddy bear or golden hamster are so far the most popular pet hamsters of all and the best option for your children. Syrian hamsters can grow as long as 7 inches, making them the largest of the pet breeds. Owing to their size, children can easily handle them than smaller hamsters.
How long do Syrian hamsters live?
The life span of the Syrian hamster is 3-4 years. Female Syrian hamster are usually more active than the male during the day time. Most Syrian hamsters have golden furs, occasionally, you will find some with brown, white, grey and even black furs. Syrian hamsters are the best pet hamsters’ option for children generally.
How many hamsters are there in the world?
There are about 20 hamster breeds in the world, all with different care needs and temperament. However, only about five out of these hamster breeds are commonly kept as pet s for children and out of these five, the Syrian breed is considered the best and most popular.
Why are hamsters good for kids?
They love to play, and they are fun to watch , making them one of the best activities for children to engage in. Hamster are generally inexpensive and relatively low maintenance. Having a hamster as a pet is a way to teach children responsibility. Hamsters don’t take up a lot of space like other pets.
How long can a Russian dwarf hamster be?
Both types of dwarf hamsters may reach a maximum length of 4 inches.
What color is a Russian hamster?
This is usually a grey-brown coloration on the back that is darkest along the spine and a white under-belly. However, a dwarf Russian hamster may display a surprising range of coloration due to the influence of breeders. Dwarf Russian Hamsters are best suited for older children.
What is the best hamster cage?
Ramsey recommends the Prevue Pet Products 528 cage as one of the best hamster cages you can buy. The extra-large cage offers your furry friend roughly 617.5 square inches of space to play in the extra-deep tubby base, as well as a spacious raised platform and a wide plastic ramp. The cage is topped with tight 0.375-inch wire spacing that will prevent hamsters from escaping, and the plastic base is 6.25 inches deep, allowing you to offer a generous amount of bedding.
What do hamsters like to sleep in?
Aside from space, hamsters like to have a cozy corner filled with wood shavings, hay, or shredded paper where they can sleep. This habitat fits the size bill and also offers a base that will fulfill their instinct to hide—bonus that it’s see-through so you can keep an eye on your pet while it's snoozing.
How many levels are there in a hamster cage?
This cage features two levels—a 4.65-inch plastic base that’s topped with a wire mesh level. The wire spacing is 0.25-inch, and the two levels are connected by a solid plastic ramp.
How many square inches are in a hamster cage?
Your hamster will feel like it’s living in the lap of luxury in the Aivituwin 3-Tier Hamster Cage. The main level of this cage offers more than 700 square inches of play space for your pet, and there are two additional levels where hamsters can explore, play, and nap in the included hideaways.
How far apart do hamster cages need to be?
Dwarf hamsters require gaps to be smaller than 0.25 inches, while Syrian hamsters can live in cages where the wire bars are up to 0.5 inches apart.
What is the mesh cage for hamsters?
The cage is topped with mesh wire where you can hang its accessories, and there’s even a clear tunnel that sits on top of the cage, allowing hamsters to explore their surroundings. The base detaches from the wire portion for quick and easy cleaning, and there are two handles on either side of the cage, allowing you to easily move it around as needed.
How much room does a hamster cage have?
This cage offers more than 800 square inches of room for your pet, and it comes with an adjustable shelf and ramp, as well as a ramp cover to protect your hamster’s toes. A leak-proof pan and full-width double doors make the cage easy to clean, and there’s a built-in lower shelf where you can stash food and other supplies.
What is the best hay for hamsters?
Timothy Hay – Timothy hay is a green hay that has a sweet smell; it provides hamsters with the fiber they need. It also stimulates their inherent instinct to forage. A handful of timothy hay provided two to three times a week is a good addition to your hamster’s diet. Many commercially available foods already include this ingredient in their formulations.
How to keep a hamster healthy?
You can help keep your hamster at a healthy weight by providing opportunities for exercise. This includes providing a hamster wheel and ensuring that his cage has some vertical structures to give your little one a chance to climb and get moving. To find the best hamster food brand, keep on reading.
What is pelleted hamster food?
Pelleted Hamster Food – Pelleted hamster food is similar to seed hamster food with one very big difference. While it does contain a healthy blend of ingredients, it is innovative in that it combines all ingredients into compressed pellets to deliver balanced nutrition for even the pickiest of eaters.
How long can a hamster go without food?
If your hamster is healthy, he may live without food for three to four days. Hamsters are not the type of animals that can store consumed foods in their cheeks and bellies and therefore would not have much to count on should they be left without food. However, hamsters do tend to stash away food in their beds so if they are left alone, they may be able to forage and find some hidden snacks to hold them over. If a hamster is left alone in the wilderness, outcomes are much less likely to be favorable. Not only do hamsters require food and water to survive, their environments also play a crucial role in their overall health. Hotter climates will require more water be provided and cold environments, without proper nutrition to help their body develop the muscle and fat required to withstand changes in temperature, could also end detrimentally. If your hamster has been left without food and water for a couple of days, be sure to provide water first. An electrolyte solution may be even more beneficial, provided via a dropper.
How often should I feed my hamster?
How often should I feed my hamster? Your hamster should be enjoying one mealtime per day. This meal should be about one tablespoon of hamster food provided in a ceramic bowl to avoid scratches into plastic material where bacteria could grow. Since hamsters are nocturnal, feeding at night may be the best option; however, the most important aspect of mealtime is consistency. Once you have designated a feeding time, make it a habit so that your hamster can count on the schedule provided. Your hamster’s diet can be supplemented with some fresh food ingredients every other day – examples include raisins, berries, carrots, pumpkin, and cauliflower. You could also opt for a protein-rich food, like small pieces of a hard-boiled egg. Whatever you are feeding your hamster, be sure to clean up after mealtime to ensure a healthy, clean space free of spoiled food, mold, and bacteria. Keep in mind that while it is ultra-important to provide your hamster with a balanced diet, there are certain foods that should be avoided at all costs. Examples of foods that should be avoided include onion, citrus fruits, and kidney beans.
What do hamsters eat?
Hamsters in the wild enjoy a varied diet that includes plants, insects, fruits, and seeds. When hamsters live under human care, their diet should mirror their natural preferences to provide complete and balanced nutrition. There are several types of hamster foods available on the market; when you choose a high-quality option, ...
How long do hamsters live?
Their lifespans are much shorter than most other pets and providing a quality diet helps to ensure they will live the longest, healthiest life possible. These little ones can live two to three years – with proper nutritional support, they can reach their maximum lifespan with ease.
Our Top Choices For The Best Hamster Food
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Reviews of Top Products in the Market
In 2019, people spent $95.7 billion on their pets, and $29.3 billion was spent on vet care and product sales. Considering that number, it’s essential that you keep your pets healthy. One of the ways of doing so is feeding them the best food available.
Buying Guide for Selecting the Perfect Meal for your Pet
61% of pet owners are willing to pay more for food to meet their pet’s nutritional needs. But many people don’t know where to start or what to look for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hamster foods’ prices vary. Some cost only a few dollars per bag, and others can cost up to $20. It all depends on the list of ingredients and quantity.
Conclusion
Over 90% of pet owners consider their pets a member of the family. That’s why they want to feed their pets the best food to keep them healthy.
What is the best cage for hamsters?
Hamsters need floor space, somewhere to sleep and accessories to keep them active and entertained. The Favola Hamster Cage has all of this and more, making it the best hamster cage overall and a great one-stop option for your hammy and you.
What do hamsters need to be a hamster?
Alongside a deep base a hamster will need a food bowl, water bottle, an exercise wheel and a nesting area for privacy. An added bonus is connecting tubes which allow you to extend beyond the standard cage.
What is the bottom of a hamster cage?
The cage is effectively two parts. The bottom half of the cage is a deep transparent plastic tank. The ideal environment to add loads of bedding and the opportunity for your hamster to get some serious burrowing done. It also acts as a great viewing platform. No wire bars to obscure the view of your happy hamster running around their cage.
How many doors does a Savic hamster cage have?
The wire cage is firmly attached by two clips making it easy to take off and clean. It also boasts two doors – a large front door for quick and easy access and a smaller top door. The Savic is a large hamster cage which makes it a little more difficult to move. But, two strong carry handles make the job much easier. This cage is a great option for any hamster but ideal if you want to put two together.
How big is a hamster cage?
It consists of a standard style cage and a multi-level vertical play space. The cage isn’t huge, it measures 18.11 x 11.4-inches in length and width, ideal for small hamster breeds. But, with the addition of the multi-level play space your furry friend will have plenty to keep them entertained.
What is the connecting ring in a hamster cage?
There is a connecting ring in the cage to expand sideways with more tubes and another cage. A connecting ring in the top of the vertical play space means there is room to build upwards as well. This is a great cage for starting out and perfect for expansion as your hamster grows. (Image credit: Savic)
What to add to a hamster house?
Even with all these accessories included there is still plenty of room to add more. You could add a nesting area, a gnawing block, an extra ladder or a hanging hamster house to give them complete privacy.
What is the best cage for hamsters?
Favola’s large hamster cage is the best hamster cage you would find.
What the Top Rated Hamster Cage Brands?
Ferplast has always been ever so careful since the days of its launch about taking care of your little friends. As promising, it has always been, they have a wide range of pet accessories and cages for rodents, reptiles, cats, dogs, etc. Their unparalleled enthusiasm has given birth to wonderful pet cages where your pets would feel safe, happy, and protected. Make sure to check out their official page for more related information.
What is a Hamster Cage?
As you can comprehend from its name itself, a natural hamster habitat where your pet live safely and securely. To be more precise, if you have a pet gerbil in your house, then you have to house it as well. But these gerbils do have a special set of requirements for their living. In order to fulfill that purpose, these coops come designed to house your fur friends comfortably while providing them with their needed ambiance. You can buy commercial hamster cages or make pens on your own as well. In fact, some like to house their gerbils in an unused aquarium as well. All these options are equally good for your little paw mate.
How to Set Up a Hamster Cage?
First, you must set up the bedding as this would serve as a cage’s base.
How to make a hamster hut?
All you have to do is to set up a tiny village-themed cage for your hamster. You can use the litter as bedding and then decorate the hideout as a hut. Then add a few small tree-like structures and use a small piece of fabric to make ten ts for your hamster.
What to do after moving a hamster?
After moving your pet gently away from any hamster cage momentarily, you should take out that bedding and accessories to deep clean them.
How to make a hamster cage look bigger?
As you must have seen, try to build a barrier out of popsicle sticks and straws by binding them together around this bedding. Make sure to leave enough space to act as windows. Give the hideaway a castle shape by adding a speak on its head.