H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S
CHOOSING YOUR PET
Don ’ t be easily deceived by these pocket-sized guys because their needs and personalities are contrary to their size .
When choosing the perfect hamster for pet , check reputable breeders or adopt from shelter . Ideally , hamsters between 4 to 7 weeks old are easier to tame . Choose a socially alert but curious one
“ Choose a socially alert but curious one that washes itself , looks apparently healthy and relaxes when held in the hand ”
that washes itself , looks apparently healthy and relaxes when held in the hand . Its better to know your hamster ’ s breed , as it influences their behaviour and overall requirements . For instance , except for territorial Syrian breed , all are naturally social and can be housed in pairs . This is important to prevent frequent fierce fights that may lead to death .
BASIC NECESSITIES
These fragile creatures should be handled gently . The owners should provide them with adequate food and water just like any other pet . Hamsters will take a bite at anything , so be cautious with what you are feeding them . Readily available hamster food can be purchased in pet supply stores and should be provided once or twice daily . This balanced food contains seeds , pellets , grains and cracked corn , which can be mixed with rice grains , sunflower seeds , fruits , alfalfa pellets and vegetables every 2 to 3 days . Leftovers should be removed after two days or before spoilage . Avoid feeding a lot of nuts for its high fat content as well as raw kidney beans and potato , onions , rhubarb , sweets or junk food . You can provide mineral stone and vitamin supplements for rodents if available .
There should be an inverted drinking bottle with fresh , clean water attached to the cage as hamster ’ s water source . The bottle should be washed weekly while daily inspection for leakage is necessary . The bottle spout should be reachable by pets but not in contact with bedding . If you supply water in a bowl , make sure that it doesn ’ t tip over or drown your pet .
Hamsters also need a comfortable shelter to protect and secure them against harsh external conditions . It should be located in a quiet and dim place of the house that is away from wind , direct sunlight and other animals . However , the area should be visited frequently to establish pet-owner relationship .
When building or buying a hamster home , remember two things : the bigger the enclosure , the better and pet hamsters are escape artists .
45