The golden hamster or أبو جراب was found for the first time in the Maghreb, specifically in Syria. Currently its status in the wild is considered threatened, as fewer and fewer colonies reside in the wild. They are very common as pets.
Physical appearance
Notable for its large size compared to other hamster species such as the Chinese hamster or the roborowskii hamster. They can reach 17 centimeters although males do not usually reach 13 or 15 centimeters. They can weigh between 90 and 150 grams.
The fur is golden and can be short or long, in the latter case it is also known as the Angora hamster. The color is golden, somewhat darker on the back and lighter on the belly. Currently some breeders have managed to vary the shades of fur through genetic selection, achieving black, red, white, gray and chocolate specimens.
A curiosity is their bags called pockets, which occupy from the cheeks to the shoulders and store food in them. The largest amount accumulated in a golden hamster is 25 kilograms, an incredible sum for its size.
Behaviour
Unlike other types of hamsters, the golden hamster is more shy and reserved, preferring quiet to excessive play. This also applies to the relationship with other animals since they can become aggressive or uncomfortable with other types of rodents, of the same or another species.
Still, these are not particularly shy hamsters with people, as they rarely bite. Due to their size, it is clear that we can handle them without any problem and without the risk of them escaping. It is important that before physically interacting with the hamster he gets used to us Before putting your hand inside the cage and picking him up without warning, talk to him and offer him food from his pleasure to have a positive and pleasant beginning for both of you.
Feeding
Feeding this type of hamster is very simple:
In the market you will find suitable food that contains what will be the basis of your diet, that is, seeds and cerealsIn addition, you will need to provide twice a week vegetables and fruitWe recommend the pear, the apple, the broccoli or the green peppers.
It is also important that you receive a certain amount of protein that we can obtain in the insectivorous porridge for poultry, turkey or s alt-free cheese. Water should not be missing from your diet and it should always be clean and fresh.
Habitat
We will look for a cage with measurements approximately 60 x 40 x 40, if it can be larger, our hamster will enjoy more in his new home. It must have good ventilation, a waterproof floor and secure doors and bars. They like to climb and for this reason it is preferable to use cages with several floors or with stairs, something that exercises our pet's muscles.
We will have feeders and a drinker (for rabbits, for example), wheels or routes and finally we will add a shed or nest for it to rest. Also, on the ground you can add gravel to make it feel more comfortable.
Diseases
You must regularly clean and disinfect the cage and the elements it contains to prevent disease. The most common ones that can affect your golden hamster are: pneumonia or cold which is due to drafts, we can solve it by changing our pet to an environment more appropriate. The fleas and lice, in this case, we will go to a pet supply center and buy an antiparasitic spray.
The heat strokes happen on certain occasions, try to lower the temperature as soon as possible trying not to get it wet, if you don't see a quick improvement, go to your vet. Fractures and wounds are common and tend to heal on their own with some help (betadine for wounds or a small splint for a week) although if they are serious you should also go to the usual pet center.
