The hamster is a small rodent of the Cricetidae family that can stay with us for between 2 and 5 years, depending on the species, if we strive to provide you with what you need, such as an appropriate and he althy diet for your characteristics.
In this article on our site we will explain everything you need to know about hamster care and feeding.
We will explain in detail what your diet should be like, which foods are prohibited, the most appropriate fruits and vegetables for your vitamin intake and, in general, everything you need to be happy and lead a he althy life. placid by your side Keep reading this post:
How to care for a hamster
The Hamster Cage
For our hamster to feel comfortable when he arrives at our home, it will be essential to have the cage in which he is going to live ready. We generally find many options on the market, but most are too small, which leads to stress and discomfort for our animal.
The minimum space of a hamster cage should be about 60 cm long x 50 wide x 50 deep Ideal it would be to acquire a two-story one in which we can place tunnels and various structures. The cage should always be spacious and comfortable for our little hamster.
However, if we have in mind to adopt a roborovskii hamster (which is really very small) we should choose to buy a fishtank or terrariumthat we will condition properly and which will allow us to avoid leaks by our small tenant. Rororovskii hamsters are so small and have such a facility for passing through narrow spaces that it is very likely that they will be able to escape from any cage.
The cage should be cleaned weekly to avoid the accumulation of feces and provide a hygienic environment for the animal.
The location of the cage
This detail is truly important since the quality of life of our hamster will depend on where we place it in the house. It is important to choose a place that is ventilated but not drafty. The temperature must be constant and oscillate between 18 and 26ºC
We also emphasize the importance of placing the cage in a semi-shadesince direct sunlight can cause heat stroke in the hamster.
The substrate
This is a very important aspect to keep in mind. We must choose an absorbent substrate that in no case produces dust. For this, the most recommended are natural wood pellets or cellulose.
The toys and the nest
In addition to things like the water bowl and feeder, the hamster will need to have a place to shelter. You can use a nest, a small house or any other element that allows him to rest and isolate himself from the sunlight.
He will also need distractions to make the time you don't play or interact with him more bearable. The t binds, catwalks, toys and other elements will enrich your day to day.
Discover how to prepare a hamster cage step by step.
Feeding the hamster
A hamster's diet should be balanced and varied, dedicated to covering all its nutritional needs. For this we will include seeds, vegetables, fruit, cereals and nuts. Next we will explain what the bases of his diet are and what foods we can or cannot offer him:
Commercial feed
In the market we find different ready-made foods that you can offer your hamster on a daily basis. They are generally composed of cereals and seeds and dehydrated fruits. This type of diet is a powerful base for your protein and fiber intake, however we should also include fruits and vegetables in your diet. vegetables assorted.
Cereals and legumes
The hamster's diet must be rich in fiber and low in fat, for this reason we must select foods rich in carbohydrates and fiber. Cereals and seeds should be the basic diet of the hamster.
If you decide not to buy commercial feed and prepare your hamster's diet yourself, take note of the following ingredients. You will have to buy them and mix them raw:
- Oatmeal
- Wheat
- Corn
- Barley
- Rice
- Lentils
- Garbanzo beans
Nuts
The protein supply of the hamster can be supplemented by the supply of nuts, although these should not be offered very regularly. Some examples are hazelnuts, walnuts, chestnuts, almonds or sunflower seeds. All of them must be administered without s alt or any type of preparation.
We can also offer meat, fish and insects to complete their protein intake but we must not abuse them. Once a week will be more than enough. Some of the most common are:
- Steamed chicken or turkey
- Eggs
- Steamed cod
- Grasshopper
- Mealworms
- Crickets
Fruit and vegetable
Fruit and vegetables are very important foods for hamsters. We must make sure to offer these foods to our hamster every day:
- Apple
- Pear
- Plums
- Apricot
- Peach
- Strawberries
- Kiwi
- Carrot
- Zucchini
- Tender shoots
Discover the fruits and vegetables in detail that you can offer your hamster.
Water
The water must refresh daily and "bottle" type containers are generally used as they are hygienic and easy to use. However, if you have just adopted your hamster, it is recommended that you offer him a small saucepan on the ground so that he can drink directly since some do not know how it works.
Forbidden food
Don't forget that there are forbidden foods for hamsters that you should never offer them. Among them we find the leftovers of our own food, foods with spices, s alt and various condiments or those that are not digestible.
Teeth wear
It is important to spend time caring for your hamster's teeth to prevent abnormalities such as excessive growth or tooth breakage. In the market you will find items dedicated exclusively to this, such as the branches of fruit trees that allow normal wear of the teeth. Consult the nearest store.
Diseases that can affect a hamster
Generally a well cared for hamster has no he alth complications but the following signs could indicate illness:
- Loss of appetite
- Bad coat or hair loss
- Sneezing
- Runny nose or tears
- Diarrhea
If you notice any of these symptoms in your adult hamster, it is vitally important that you take him to the vet to rule out any problems or start specific treatment or care as soon as possible.
