Unlock the secrets to becoming a hamster care connoisseur. Hamsters, those adorable, furry bundles of joy, are cherished by numerous families. Experts laud them as ideal pets for novice owners. Tony Adler, co-president of the California Hamster Association, emphasizes that hamsters are akin to other pets, such as cats, in terms of their self-sufficiency. While they can manage on their own, human interaction remains pivotal for their well-being and happiness.
So, how does one go about tending to these feline-esque rodents? Adler advocates for ditching the traditional 160-square-inch cages and opting for more expansive living quarters. The current recommendation stands at 600 square inches of unbroken space or larger. Adequate bedding, ranging from 6 to 15 inches in depth, should line the enclosure floor to allow for burrowing, according to Adler.
Dr. Brittany Childs, a veterinarian at the VCA West Suburban Veterinary Hospital, advises prospective hamster owners to thoroughly research their diet before bringing one home. Syrian and Russian Dwarf Hamsters are among the most common species. Both Childs and Adler stress the importance of keeping hamsters separated as they are solitary creatures and do not coexist well with others. Strict supervision is necessary when they explore outside their habitat.
Should your hamster become a parent, Adler urges caution against separating the pups from the mother before they reach four weeks of age. Stress in the environment should be minimized to prevent the mother from injuring the babies. At six weeks, the babies should be separated by gender to avoid unintended pregnancies.
Curious about the lifespan of hamsters, the cost of owning one, or their nocturnal habits? Childs clarifies that hamsters are nocturnal creatures, explaining those late-night noises in their cages. As for costs, it varies by location, so consulting local veterinarians is key for accurate estimates. Adler estimates an initial cost of at least $100 for a hamster, with annual expenses ranging from $200 to $300.
To delve deeper into these intriguing critters and other burning questions, turn to USA TODAY’s “Just Curious” section. Whether it’s pondering the number of Netflix users or the reason behind winter’s name, we’re here to provide answers. For more engaging content, connect with reporter Krystal Nurse at knurse@USATODAY.com or follow her on X and BlueSky.
This article was originally published on USA TODAY: “How to take care of a hamster: Expert tips to help your setup shine.”
