How to raise a pet hamster: A comprehensive guide from novice to expert
In the past 10 days, the topic of pet raising has continued to be popular on social media, especially the raising methods of small pets. Hamsters have become the first choice pet for many families because of their cuteness and easy maintenance. This article will provide you with a detailed guide to raising hamsters to help you take care of these little lives scientifically and healthily.
1. Basic information about hamsters
Hamsters are small rodents with a lifespan of usually 2-3 years. Common breeds include Syrian hamsters (commonly known as "bear hamsters") and dwarf hamsters (such as the Roborovsky hamster). The following is a comparison of the characteristics of several common hamsters:
| variety | body shape | character | Suitable for the crowd |
|---|---|---|---|
| syrian hamster | Larger (12-18cm) | Living alone, more docile | first time breeders |
| Campbell's Dwarf Hamster | Smaller (7-10cm) | Lively and active | Experienced breeder |
| roborovsky hamster | Minimum (4-5cm) | Timid and sensitive | observational breeder |
2. Preparation of breeding environment
1.Cage selection: Hamsters need enough space for activities. It is recommended to choose a cage with a length of at least 50 cm. It is best to have high sides at the bottom of the cage to prevent the bedding material from spilling out.
2.Use of mat material: It is recommended to use dust-free wood chips or paper cotton with a thickness of at least 5 cm to satisfy the hamster's digging instinct. Here is a comparison of common mat materials:
| Mat type | advantage | shortcoming |
|---|---|---|
| sawdust | Good absorbency and affordable price | There may be dust |
| Paper cotton | Dust-free, soft and comfortable | higher price |
| corn cob | Natural and environmentally friendly | Poor water absorption |
3.Necessary facilities: - Running wheel: at least 18 cm in diameter (Syrian hamsters need more than 20 cm) - Food bowl: choose ceramic material that is not easy to knock over - Drinking fountain: hanging ball drinking fountain - Hideout house: provide a sense of security
3. Diet management
Hamsters are omnivorous animals and need a balanced nutritional ratio. The following is the recommended diet:
| food type | Proportion | specific food |
|---|---|---|
| staple food | 70% | Professional hamster food |
| vegetable | 20% | Carrots, broccoli, cucumbers, etc. |
| protein | 10% | cooked egg whites, mealworms |
Things to note: - Avoid feeding harmful foods such as citrus fruits, onions, chocolates - Fresh foods should be taken out within 2 hours to prevent deterioration - Provide teeth grinding tools such as apple branches or mineral stones
4. Daily care
1.Cleaning frequency: - Daily: Clean up remaining food and change drinking water - Weekly: Partially replace bedding materials - Monthly: Comprehensive cleaning of the cage
2.health check: - Eyes: bright with no discharge - Hair: smooth with no bald spots - Behavior: active, normal appetite
3.Interactive skills: - Get the hamster familiar with your scent - Start with hand feeding to build trust - Avoid interruptions during the day (hamsters are nocturnal)
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can hamsters be kept in separate cages?
A: Syrian hamsters must be kept alone, and dwarf hamsters are also recommended to be separated into cages to avoid fighting.
Q: Do hamsters need to be bathed?
A: No need to wash, they will take a sand bath on their own. Just provide special bath sand.
Q: What should I do if a hamster bites me?
A: You may be frightened. You should approach slowly and avoid sudden movements. Can interact while wearing gloves.
Conclusion
Raising hamsters is a fun and responsible job. By providing the right environment, a balanced diet, and attentive care, your little hamster will grow up healthily and bring you endless joy. Remember, each hamster has a unique personality, and patient observation and adaptability to its needs are the most important tips.
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