what should i buy for my hamster

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What you should feed your hamster?

When your hamster deserves a little treat, consider some of the following:

• Grains. This is the primary food for hamsters. ...
• Vegetables. Fresh, organically grown greens are the best. ...
• Fruits. Hamsters love apples, pears, strawberries and bananas. ...
• Timothy hay. Hay is a great gnawing food that can help keep your hamster's teeth in good condition.
• Clean, fresh, filtered, chlorine-free water, changed daily.
• Treats! ...

What should you feed your hamster?

What Hamsters Eat

• Pellets. Hamster pellet s are little chunks of compressed hay, barley, oats, and other grains, with possibly a few other ingredients mixed in.
• Muesli. You’ll find muesli-style mixes next to the hamster pellets in your pet food store. ...
• Timothy Hay. Timothy hay is a grassy-style hay that’s incredibly fibrous. ...
• Fresh Vegetables. ...
• Fresh Fruits. ...
• Meat. ...

How do you make fun things for your hamster?

What to Do To Have Fun With Your Hamster?

1. Compile funny or interesting poses in an album or scrapbook. ...
2. Let your hamster play with toys. Remember the green soldiers in Toy Story? ...
3. Use old materials or containers for their homes. ...
4. Create an elaborate setup. ...
5. Look for vehicles that your hamster will fit comfortably. ...
6. Start a DIY with your hamster. ...
7. Make memes with your hamster. ...

What are some tips for taking care of a hamster?

Method 1 Method 1 of 3: Caring for Your Hamster

1. Clean your hands. Hamsters don’t have great eyesight, which means they will navigate by smell. ...
2. Give your hamster something to chew on. Hamster teeth will grow for their whole lives. ...
3. Find a place to keep your hamster when cleaning. You don’t want your hamster running around while you are trying to clean the cage.
4. Check to see if your hamster is injured. ...

What all do I need for my hamster?

What You NeedCage.Bedding and nesting material.Food.Food dish.Water bottle.Wheel.House or hideout.Toys.

What do hamsters enjoy most?

Hamsters can eat leafy greens such as dandelions and clover, but also tasty fruits and vegetables such as pears, carrots and cabbage. For a more complete list of hamster foods, have a look at our Hamster Food List. Occasionally, you might want to supplement your pet's diet with a little bit of protein.

What is a hamster's favorite snack?

Hamsters enjoy leafy greens such as dandelions and clover, and fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, carrots and cabbage.

How can I tell if my hamster is happy?

Unless they're old, it is not a good sign to see a hamster stuck in a loop of repetitive behaviors. A happy hamster will be very energetic, wanting to explore its cage, use its wheel, and will be moving around much more.

What do hamsters enjoy doing?

Tunnels are a great source of amusement and exercise for hamsters. They'll play for extended periods running through networks of tubes when possible. Cages with attachable, customizable plastic tubes and extra compartments conveniently provide your pet with plenty of tunnels to explore and play in.

How do you entertain a hamster?

0:085:50How to keep your hamster BUSY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd scatter feed them when you're giving your hamster just all of its food in a dish.MoreAnd scatter feed them when you're giving your hamster just all of its food in a dish.

What do hamsters like in their cage?

Plastic wheels are best for hamsters. Plenty of toys and interactive games so they don't get bored. Hamsters enjoy climbing, ladders, tubes, shelves, cardboard boxes and other interactive toys. Keep their toys and cage the same week-on-week as hamsters find sudden changes stressful.

What do hamsters like to sleep in?

Wood shavings are the most popular and type of material when it comes to bedding. Not every type of wood shavings or chips is healthy for your hamsters though. Avoid cedar and pine woods because they contain phenol chemicals that can cause respiratory and liver problems.

How much does a hamster cost?

On average, purchasing a Hamster will cost 10 to 15 pounds '$15 to $20'. However, when you include the bare essentials, such as the cage, wheel, ho...

How long do Hamsters live?

Depending on what type of hamster you buy, the lifespan can vary from 1 year to 4 years.

Do I need to bathe my hamster?

It would be best if you dont bathe your hamster in water. However, you can provide a hamster with a sand bath. You can use hamster sand bath, repti...

What to feed hamsters?

Hamsters need a good supply of items and toys that they can gnaw on to keep their constantly growing teeth in good condition. Wooden pet chew toys are an ideal choice. Wood items not purchased from the pet store (stay away from cedar or other evergreen type woods) should be pesticide- and chemical-free. If you are unsure if a type of wood is safe it is probably best to stick with items made for pets. Pesticide-free fruit tree branches from your backyard or hardwood blocks or shapes that are not chemically treated are okay for your hamster. Willow balls, rings, and tunnels are also marketed for rabbits but and the smaller sized options are great for hamsters.

What to do with hamsters that dig?

Sand and Digging Options for Hamsters. You can provide a dish of chinchilla dust bath or fine sand, in which your hamster may roll to keep its coat in good condition. Also, most hamsters love to dig so providing a deeper box of sand or sterilized soil big enough for the hamster to burrow in is a great treat for hamsters.

What do hamsters use for climbing?

There are a variety of climbers and houses/huts designed for hamsters and other small rodents. Wood ladders and climbing blocks are great for hamsters. If you can't find wood ladders in the hamster section of your pet store, check the bird section. You can also use hardwood dowels and wood to make ramps and climbing structures.

What is a runabout for hamsters?

Run-Abouts are the clear plastic balls (several styles are available) in which you put your hamster in and let them run around on the floor without the worry of them getting away from you. Both wheels and Run-Abouts are great ways to make sure your hamster gets enough exercise. Lukasz Wisniewski / EyeEm / Getty Images.

Do hamsters need pumice stones?

Mineral Blocks and Pumice Stones for Hamsters. Mineral blocks and pumice stones are not necessary. If your hamster does gnaw on them it can help keep their teeth in good condition but they are very hard and many hamsters won't use them.

Can hamsters chew cardboard?

In addition to wood chews, cardboard can be provided for chewing (and hiding). Hamsters also love cardboard tubes from paper towel and toilet paper rolls and there are now commercial tubes that are a bit sturdier and are said to be safe for chewing (e.g. Totally Chewbular Play Tubes ).

Can hamsters get entangled in ropes?

Extreme caution is required with hanging toys and ropes—use thicker sizes of rope and be sure your hamster (head, body, legs, or toenails) cannot get entangled in any ropes used to hang items or use them only under close supervision. © jade_c / Getty Images.

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 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.

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.

What do hamsters use to make nests?

7. Bedding – most people make use of wood shavings. Don’t use sawdust as that can be irritating for your new hamster’s sensitive nose. Shredded kitchen roll can be used to make a nice little nest. Hamsters love to build a nest using bedding so it’s a good idea to provide wood shavings for the bottom and some nesting material for them to use. I will write an article on this as there are several types of bedding that people have used and there are some things you should avoid.

What to do if your hamster is dirty?

They are very susceptible to catching colds and pneumonia. If your hamster‘s fur is looking slightly greasy or he dirty, provide him with a bowl of chinchilla sand.

What is the purpose of a hamster house?

The purpose of a hamster house is to provide a place to hide or sleep in peace. Undoubtedly, your new hamster will have his own idea on what a hamster house is for, but it is a necessary piece of equipment nonetheless. Even if your hamster does not use this, there might be a day when a cat gets to the cage or a dog and a hamster house will be the only place your pet can hide out of prying eyes. Practically all hamster cage sets come with a house. These are usually fine for small breeds and baby Syrians. Be wary of using these houses if your Syrian is fully grown. The starter sets usually have houses that have windows and a full grown hamster can get stuck in these windows which will result in a lot of stress. Choose a house that will comfortably fit your pet and has exits that will give your hamster plenty of room. Houses can be a hot spot for condensation if your hammy sleeps and stores food in there. Be sure to keep it clean and hygienic.

Can a Syrian hamster get stuck in a starter house?

Be wary of using these houses if your Syrian is fully grown. The starter sets usually have houses that have windows and a full grown hamster can get stuck in these windows which will result in a lot of stress. Choose a house that will comfortably fit your pet and has exits that will give your hamster plenty of room.

Can hamsters out grow?

If you receive one with a cage, bear in mind that Syrian hamsters will quickly out grow it in most cases. Some wheels can be quite noisy so if noise bothers you, look for the silent ones. I used this Wonderland Wooden Wheel since my Savic Wheel’s spindle kept breaking from Coco’s vigorous wheel usage. This wooden one is of a great quality and makes little noise. The only noise I heard was feet hitting wood rather than wheel spinning. The 15cm is ideal for small breeds and the 20cm is a good size for a Syrian.

Do you have to have a hamster before you bring it home?

If you are making a home, it is even more important to have it made before you bring your hamster home. The more prepared you are, the smoother the transition from pet store to new home will be for the hamster. [Updated] To make things easier, I’ve put together a shopping list. Simply click on the picture or the link and you will be directed to ...

Do hamsters need a wheel?

Possibly the most important. Your new hamster HAS to have a wheel as not only does this provide exercise for a hamster and prevent them from getting chubby but also keeps them mentally healthy. One study (Reebs & Maillet, 2003) found that even with big cages and many toys, hamsters still used their wheel.

What are the costs of keeping a hamster?

The main costs of keeping a hamster include the initial one-off costs of buying the hamster itself and the necessary equipment, which comprises a cage , food dish , water bottle and toys, followed by the recurring costs of bedding , food and chew toys.

How to prepare a hamster cage for a new home?

Preparing a Hamster Cage. Before you buy your hamster and take it home you will need to buy the necessary supplies and prepare the hamster cage ready for its arrival. Your hamster will need time to adapt to its new home, and inadequate housing can lead to stress, and potentially health and behavioral problems.

Can hamsters chew cardboard?

You will usually be given a container by the pet store or breeder to bring your hamster home in. However, this is likely to be small and uncomfortable, and may even be made out of cardboard which your hamster could potentially chew through. Therefore it is best to prepare your own container.

Can you buy a hamster from a rescue center?

They are therefore still a good option if you cannot find a local breeder. Alternatively, you may want to buy your hamster from a rescue center, which allows you to buy at a cheaper price and support a good cause. Read More.

Is it cheaper to keep a hamster?

Cost. Keeping a hamster is generally relatively inexpensive compared to other pets. However, it is still likely to cost too much for a child to pay for by themselves, especially if the hamster needs veterinary treatment at any point. Therefore it is important that a child is able to share the cost with an adult.

Can hamsters get wet tails?

The journey home will be a stressful experience for your hamster, and stress can potentially cause an illness such as wet tail, as well as behavioral problems. You should therefore do everything you can to make your hamster as comfortable as possible on this trip and when settling into its new home.

Can hamsters be kept in wire cages?

The cage should then be placed in a suitable room of constant temperature, and away from any heaters, direct sunlight, and other pets that may harm your hamster. If you have a wire cage, it will also need to be kept clear of drafts. The cage should be positioned out of reach of small children, and can be brought down for supervised play with your hamster.

What foods are risk-free for my hamster to consume?

What should I feed my hamster? There are a whole host of fruits, vegetables as well as herbs that are suitable for your hamster as well as which they will certainly find genuinely scrumptious when washed in advance as well as given up small amounts. These consist of:

How usually should I feed my hamster?

Hamsters are not such as human beings and also do not call for three meals a day. In the wild hamsters forage and also shop food in their cheek pouches and near to their nest, as a survival impulse for when food is limited. For that reason, your hamster will certainly have the exact same obsession, and also you may notice it emptying its bowl the min you fill it up. But, hamsters just have a tendency to eat little and usually throughout the day so, withstand the temptation to maintain topping it up and just load the dish daily.

When is the best time to feed my hamster?

There is still much debate over the very best time to feed a hamster. Personally, I would say pick a time, either morning or evening, that fits you finest and adhere to it to ensure that your hamster ends up being utilized to the very same routine.

What do dwarf hamsters consume besides hamster food?

Surprisingly a dwarf hamster can consume the very same quantity of food as a Syrian hamster, regardless of the dimension difference as their metabolism is a lot quicker! Dwarf hamsters can eat the same diet regimen as a Syrian hamster, nevertheless, their dimension puts them more in jeopardy of diabetic issues. For that reason, fruit and also fine-tuned items should not be given to tower over hamsters.

4 Things to Consider When Buying a Hamster

First of all, you should go late in the day. All hamsters, be it Syrian, Campbell and other dwarf hamsters are nocturnal.

Ready to Take Your Hamster Home?

Buying the right hamster for you is very important and is not something that should be taken lightly.

Hamster Ball Selection: What You Need to Know Before Purchasing

The advent of the hamster ball brought about enthusiasm for hamster parents. Humans took this ball concept and rocked it further as a form of odd entertainment for themselves. However, just how much fun does a hamster have with one? Get all the deets from our new post.

What Is A Hamster Ball?

A hamster ball is a clear, hard plastic ball with a hollow interior. It’s this interior where we tuck our little hamsters into to run about in one of these. A removable portal door provides an entrance and exit for the hamster. Vent openings (usually slim, elongated openings) allow air into the ball.

To Use Or Not Use?

Now you know a lot more than you did before about a hamster ball. Facing the challenging question of whether you should or should not use one comes down to a personal choice. However, most hamster parents who are aware of the downsides of a hamster ball choose to refrain from using one.

What do you need to bring home a hamster?

If you’re planning to bring home a hamster, one of the major purchases you’ll have to make is a cage for your new four-legged friend. There are lots of hamster cages available out there, but several factors set good models apart from the rest.

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.

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.