Hamster Facts: Care, Breeds, Diet & Behavior

Hamsters are small rodents that have become one of the most popular pocket pets worldwide. These adorable animals belong to the subfamily Cricetinae and include over 20 different species. Syrian hamsters are the most common pet variety, but dwarf species like Roborovski, Campbell's, and Winter White hamsters are also widely kept. Hamsters are native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Behavior and Personality

Hamsters are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during nighttime or twilight hours. This natural rhythm means they sleep during the day and become energetic at night. Pet owners should respect this schedule and avoid waking hamsters during daytime rest. Hamsters are generally solitary creatures. Syrian hamsters must be housed alone as they become aggressive toward other hamsters after reaching maturity. Some dwarf species can live in same sex pairs if introduced young, though conflicts may still arise. Hamsters are curious and enjoy exploring their environment. They love running on wheels, burrowing in bedding, and investigating new items in their habitat.

Diet and Nutrition

Hamsters are omnivores with varied dietary needs. A quality commercial hamster food mix should form the base of their diet, providing seeds, grains, and pellets. Fresh vegetables like carrots, broccoli, cucumber, and leafy greens can be offered in small amounts several times per week. Safe fruits include apples, berries, and bananas, given sparingly due to sugar content. Hamsters also enjoy occasional protein sources like cooked chicken, hard boiled eggs, or mealworms. Fresh water must always be available in a bottle or heavy dish. Foods to avoid include chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, garlic, and anything sticky or sugary. Hamsters have cheek pouches that extend back to their shoulders, allowing them to store and transport large amounts of food.

Physical Characteristics

Hamsters have compact bodies covered in soft fur. Syrian hamsters are the largest pet species, weighing 5 to 7 ounces and measuring 5 to 7 inches long. Dwarf hamsters are much smaller, typically 2 to 4 inches long and weighing 1 to 2 ounces. Their most distinctive feature is expandable cheek pouches used for carrying food and nesting material. Hamster teeth grow continuously throughout their lives, requiring constant wear through chewing. They have poor eyesight and are colorblind. However, hamsters compensate with excellent senses of smell and hearing. Scent glands on their flanks help them mark territory. Different species display various coat colors including golden, white, gray, black, and patterned combinations.

Housing and Environment

Proper housing is essential for hamster health and happiness. Syrian hamsters need cages at least 450 square inches of floor space, though bigger is always better. Dwarf hamsters require slightly less space but still benefit from large enclosures. Wire cages with solid floors, glass aquariums, or bin cages all work well with proper ventilation. Bedding should be at least 6 inches deep to allow natural burrowing behavior. Safe options include paper based bedding, aspen shavings, or hemp bedding. Avoid cedar and pine shavings as they contain harmful oils. Hamsters need exercise wheels with solid running surfaces sized appropriately for their species. Twelve inch wheels suit Syrian hamsters, while 8 inch wheels work for dwarfs. Additional enrichment includes hideouts, chew toys, tunnels, and platforms.

Health and Common Issues

Hamsters are generally healthy animals but can develop various health problems. Wet tail is a serious bacterial infection causing diarrhea, especially in young hamsters. Respiratory infections can result from poor ventilation, dusty bedding, or drafts. Dental problems occur when teeth become overgrown from insufficient chewing opportunities. Tumors are unfortunately common in hamsters over 18 months old. Skin issues may arise from mites, allergies, or cage mate fights. Signs of illness include lethargy, loss of appetite, labored breathing, and discharge from eyes or nose. Hamsters are fragile and hide illness well. Any concerning symptoms require immediate veterinary attention from an exotic animal specialist.

Breeds and Species

Syrian hamsters, also called Golden hamsters, are the most popular pet variety. They are solitary, relatively easy to handle, and come in many colors and coat types including long haired, satin, and rex varieties. Roborovski hamsters are the smallest and fastest dwarf species. They are social and best kept in same sex pairs. Campbell's dwarf hamsters are friendly and active. Winter White hamsters can change coat color to white in winter months. Chinese hamsters have longer tails than other species and a more mouse like appearance. Each species has unique care requirements and personality traits.

Interaction and Handling

Hamsters can become tame with patient, gentle handling. New hamsters need several days to adjust before interaction begins. Start by offering treats through cage bars to build trust. Once comfortable, scoop the hamster gently with both hands rather than grabbing from above. Short handling sessions work best initially. Never wake a sleeping hamster suddenly as this may cause them to bite defensively. Children should be supervised during hamster interaction as these small animals are delicate and easily injured by rough handling or drops.