What You Should Know About Hamster

Hamsters are small mammals in the subfamily Cricetinae. They are classified into seven genera and 19 species. They are popular as small pets, with the most common varieties being the Syrian and golden hamster. There are a lot of different types of hamsters, and knowing about them before purchasing a pet can help you get the right one. Read on to learn about these fascinating creatures and how they can make great pets.

Species

There are several species of hamster. The European hamster is the largest and most common. It’s aggressive and may even attack a caged ferret if provoked. These creatures were originally trapped for their fur coats, and the problem of their aggression was finally resolved with better regulation. But this did not stop them from being euthanized. Species of hamster have a long history of euthanasia, so it’s important to understand why these rodents are so vulnerable.

In addition to being a nuisance, hybrid hamsters display compulsive behavior, including back flipping, spinning in circles, head tilting, stargazing, and self-mutilation. Despite these afflictions, hybrids cannot resist staring and running around. This is because they’re so prone to self-mutilation. Hybrids can also be prone to obesity, and may even suffer from diabetes.

Habitat

Hamsters live in urban areas, so their habitat should be suitable for them. They can tolerate relatively high noise levels, but can be stressed by low vibrations. They also tolerate temperatures between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius, although hotter temperatures can stress them. However, hamsters should not be exposed to bright light, because they require a place to hide or rest. Listed below are some tips to provide a hamster with the proper habitat.

The hamster’s diet is primarily composed of plants and small animals, mostly invertebrates. This makes them herbivores, as they eat grains, leaves, berries, and insects. Unfortunately, some hamster species are threatened by human activities, such as habitat destruction and trapping for pet trade. However, captive populations have helped to maintain many species. So, it’s important to protect hamsters and their habitat.

Diet

Hamsters should eat a varied diet with several fresh foods added to it. Fresh fruits and vegetables are particularly tasty and nutritious for them. Hamsters can get additional carbohydrates from seed mixes and lab blocks. However, you should avoid giving your pet too much carbohydrates as it will only lead to overweight and obese conditions. Also, remember not to give your hamster citrus, which is toxic to hamsters. A board-certified nutritionist can help you come up with a balanced diet plan for your pet.

Hamsters spend limited time outdoors because they are nocturnal and highly protective of their young. In most habitats, hamsters are near the bottom of the food chain. Consequently, medium-sized predators regularly prey on hamsters. Birds of prey are particularly dangerous to hamsters because they can pluck them up from the air. Also, buzzards and owls are capable of killing a hamster with just a little effort.

Behavior

If you are concerned about hamster behavior, you should first take note of their usual behavior. Hamsters often show different emotions depending on their mood and surroundings. Some hamsters react badly when someone calls their name, and might raise their hand in a fight. Other hamsters respond positively, coming to the person’s hand if called. Some hamsters may be sensitive to sound, so you should turn down the volume if the hamster is hiding in a corner.

Another hamster behavior is called wrestling. A subordinate hamster may begin a wrestling match with a dominant male hamster by opening its mouth and biting its underside. The two hamsters may even engage in a wrestling match if they initially do not back down. The male hamster will eventually win the match by pushing the female hamster from its perch, but the two hamsters often continue their battle without making eye contact.

Care

In your hamster’s cage, you should spot-clean and change bedding once or twice a month. Hamsters do not require water baths, so it’s best to use a damp cloth to wipe down your pet. A hamster should also have chew toys to keep its teeth clean. If your pet hamster develops sores or bald patches on its fur, they may need to visit the vet.

Aim to give your hamster fresh food once a day, at least one time a week. You can feed it seeds or small pieces of fruit or vegetables mixed with some seed mix. Fresh food shouldn’t exceed 20% of your hamster’s diet. Hamsters prefer soft foods, so make sure to buy soft bread soaked in milk, chopped fruit, vegetables, and cooked ham. Hamsters like semi-solid food, which means they don’t digest hard food, but they do enjoy cooked meat and bread.

Care for a hamster

If you are new to hamsters, you may be wondering how to care for them. It’s important to understand their natural habits. Some hamster breeds will not like being handled, and others will need a little more attention. To help your hamster adjust, provide treats, and keep its cage clean. You should also regularly check on your hamster’s water bottle and sipper tube.

First of all, hamsters need clean water. Make sure your water bottle is attached to the cage and includes a tube so your hamster can drink from it. It is also important to clean the cage regularly, and you should pick out any uneaten food, droppings, or dirty bedding. Replace the bedding at least once a week. Hamsters need to have enough space to move around safely in their cage, but not too much.

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