Common name: Hamster

Genus: Mesocricetus Aruatus

Origin: Europe and W. Asia

Size: 4 -6 inches

Life Span: Average 2-3 years

Temperament: Good temperment if tamed at a young age.

Diet: Omnivore. Commercial hamster mix containing seeds, nuts and pellets; also fresh fruits, vegetables, hay and, on occasion, small pieces of raw meat or meal worms.

Housing: Use either a 20.5 X 10.25 X 10.25 inch wire cage, aquarium or a modular system.

Bedding: Aspen shavings or Carefresh^®
Nesting materials can consist of hay, cardboard and or white paper.

Water: A water bottle should be available at all times and should be changed daily.

Temperature/Humidity: 50-80 degrees can adjust to any climate. Keep out of drafts and drastic temperature changes.

Lighting: Dimly lite area (they like this because the are nockturnal)

Companionship: They do better living alone though, if born and raised together females can live together

Sexing: Females have two very clearly seen openings close togther in adult females this area is surrounded by pigment. The rear is more pointed than male.

Males have two clearly seen openings as well, but a larger space between the two. Testicles should have dropped by the end of the weaning stage, rear end is rounded more than the female.

Pros: Exceptionally clean. Can be tamed to accept handling

Cons: As nocturnal animals hamsters should not be disturbed or handled during the daytime. Shy, solitary creatures. Require calm and quiet daytime environment. Require a habitat that allows for ample nightly exercise. Prone to nip. Can be easily hurt if squeezed

Note: Must have items to chew to wear down constantly growing teeth.

Training;
Day 1- Watch your pet but do not disturb it.

Day 2- Start to handfeed your hamster in its cage, talk to it so it will get used to your voice, let it smell you hand so it becomes used to your scent.

Day 3-5 - Pick up your pet in your hands, outside of its cage cup it in your hands until it seems used to your fingers around it, then put hands flat next to eachother and let it walk onto one another.

Days 6-14 - Introduce it to your family.

After two weeks- Handle your hamster several times more, if you take it out the same time each day it will get used to a routine.

Always wash your hands before and after handling your hamster. This is for sanitary reasons and also, so your hammy will not get confused and think your fingers are food.

Also know that you hamster needs to chew and burrow. There are great chewing instruments on the market ( such as at Harwich Pet Supply) and your hamster will be able to burrow in its bedding.

Be sure to clean your hamster out at least once per week.