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Hamsters are low maintenance pets, but there are a few things a new owner should know about the care of a hamster. Before bringing your hamster home, you will need a few essential items. You will need a cage, a water bottle, food dishes, bedding and food. Because hamsters are natural born escape artists, when buying a cage, look for one that is escape proof. They sell cages that are specifically designed for hamsters. The sell all kids. It's all a matter of preference when deciding which cage is right for you.
When buying bedding, opt for regular unscented pine shavings. Never use cedar because it can cause a reaction that can kill your hamster. Add enough bedding for the hamster to rearrange to his own liking. You can add a little hamster house if you wish or even some empty bathroom tissue rolls. It's recommended cleaning a hamsters cage at least once a week. When cleaning, dispose of all the used bedding and all uneaten food. Replace the bedding and add fresh food after cleaning the cage.
Hamsters are notorious pack rats and will hoard food under their bedding. A food bowl and water bottle will need to be in place. Make sure the bowl is a sturdy chew proof bowl. Make sure the water bottle is up high enough so it doesn't leak and wet the bedding, yet low enough for the hamster to be able to comfortably reach for a drink.
Hamster will eat seeds, grains, nuts and vegetables. You can purchase a good mix formulated especially for a hamster's nutritional need. You can also offer fresh fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, apples, grapes, carrots, spinach and very small amounts of lettuce. Fruit should be kept to a minimum.
Hamsters need no help in grooming because they clean and groom themselves. Some breeders suggest a dish with regular clean sand in it for the hamster to roll in because it helps keep their fur cleaner by removing the excess oil from their coats. Bathing a hamster is not necessary, and it isn't recommended because the hamster could catch a chill. You'll always want to keep your hamster warm and dry.
The average life span of a hamster is around 2 ½ to 3 years. When a hamster reaches a year old, they may start showing signs of aging. They may sleep a bit more and tire quicker. It's always wise to keep the older hamster extra warm because they can get ill faster than when they were younger, and may not be able to effectively fight infections.
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