Walter Tekman is a pet hamster enthusiast and author of The Best Ever Guide To Dwarf Hamsters available at Dwarf Hamster Guide. He spends much of his time advising others on how to setup and maintain the perfect hamster habitat, while selecting the best possible hamster as a pet. Go to Dwarf Hamster Care for his complimentary 10-day free email mini-course, which reveals lots of tips, techniques and secrets for creating the greatest possible experience with your pet hamster.

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Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ – Understanding The Care Of Dwarf Hamsters

There happens to be a large number of dwarf hamster types existing throughout parts of Russia and China, but only four of the species are bred in captivity and each one of those can make a terrific pet. And, although the standard size Golden hamster is much larger, the mini dwarf hamster most surely will require a similar level of responsible care. Not surprisingly, the tiny dwarf hamster is more fragile, a bit more anxious and extremely quick to get a way. The best policy with these tiny critters is to provide the most secure enclosure possible, as it doesn’t take much of an opening for them to disappear through.

Gratefully, the habitats and various cages that are easily obtained will serve any type of hamster quite well, providing the area and dimensions of the equipment matches the physical size and level of activity of the animal to be contained. A common mistake is to think that the typical cage, which is designed for the full size hamster is a suitable habitat, but that’s about as secure as a screen door in a submarine. Fortunately, the tubular style habitats and closely spaced barred cages are now readily available. And, don’t overlook the tried and true aquarium tank for maximum escape proof protection and easy cleaning.

Because of their highly active metabolism, these little dynamos need lots of exercise, and as a consequence, it’s important to accessorize the cage with a top rated hamster wheel. Actually, a more secure activity gadget is known as the hamster ball, which is a type of 360 degree enclosed device that provides the same opportunity for exercise, without the risk of injury or escape, when utilized out of security of the cage. In the native surroundings of their homeland, some hamster types have been observed traveling up to 8 miles during an overnight search for food. So, there’s an obvious health and fitness need to their relentless quest for physical activity. On a cautionary note, the potential risk of foot and leg injury employing the standard size wheel, it’s a good idea to acquire one designed specifically for the dwarf species of hamsters.

The hamster’s instinctive need for building burrows and tunnels will easily be satisfied with the addition of about 3 inches of substrate covering the habitat floor. Materials can include dust-free paper or cellulose fibers that are free of inks and dyes, as well as, wood shavings or fibers, and most importantly, excluding the health threatening varieties of cedar and pine. Bedding material should be totally changed out each week. The bedding substrate will also provide a popular and easy means for nest building. Fortunately, a cheaper option is to utilize materials commonly found around any household, such as cotton balls, paper towels and cardboard products. Resultant of their natural tendency toward shyness, they will typically build their nest inside the area of a nesting box or other covered container and subsequently enjoy significant amounts of their days hiding and relaxing in their secluded quarters.

Surprisingly to many owners, the high metabolism of these little critters will require them to consume just as much food as their much bigger cousins from Syria. But, don’t let the site of an empty food dish be any indication of exactly how much they’re consuming, as these guys instinctively hide food in the nest and other places, just like a dog burying a bone. So, to be sure they’re getting all the nutrition they’ll need, always ensure a fresh supply of nutrients and treats in their food bowls. The best approach to ensuring the optimal intake of health sustaining nutrition is to provide a variety of foods, which include the staple hamster pellets, various mixtures of seeds and moderate amounts of nutritious veggies and fruit. Also critical to proper health is the opportunity to gnaw on a variety of safe materials. Otherwise, they’ll chew on everything in sight, as a means to control the constant growth of their front teeth. Materials such as plastics and metals may develop rough jagged edges that can cause injuries that result in wound infections.

Weekly habitat upkeep should include a comprehensive program for cage, toys and accessories sanitation. Cleaning should include washing all of the items in a warm mixture of water and gentle soap, after which everything needs to be rinsed thoroughly. Clean dry base material can be introduced when the habitat has completely dried, thereby avoiding the growth potential of bacteria and harmful mold. Be certain to avoid any strong chemical cleaners, as any remaining residue may cause irritation to hamsters, and in extreme cases may contribute to illness or worse.

Finally, these little guys will require some measure of responsible care, but none of that will ever match the hours of entertainment and loving affection provided by this wonderful little creature in return.

For additional information and resources, please visit Care Of Hamsters

Copyright 2010 Walter Tekman. All rights reserved. Please feel free to share the entire contents of this article with your friends or post it on your site as long as it is left intact with all links unchanged, including this notice.

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Article Tags:
care of hamsters, dwarf hamsters, hamsters cages, hamster, hamster types, hamster wheel, syrian hamster, golden hamster