Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my hamster sleep all day?

Hamsters are noctural; which means that they sleep during the day and are awake at night.

How can I tell if my hamster is a boy or a girl?


In adult male hamsters the testicles are many times obvious when looking at the genital area. If you do not see testes it does not always mean your hamster is a female. Female pets usually have a slightly larger opening closer to the anus than male hamsters do. For a right determination, have your pet's gender determined by your veterinarian or a pet shop.

Can my hamster get fleas?

Although it is possible, it shouldn't happen as long as you keep your hamster's cage clean, get it out of the cage often, and check it's coat weekly or whenever you're playing.

You can usually buy a flea spray or powder for under $5. Use the directions as follows, and clean the cage out normally unless otherwise stated. If your pet has skin problems take it in for an exam to your veternarian.

What kinds of litter should I use in my hamster cage? How much should I use?

There are many types of bedding, but the most popular are pine wood shavings, pellets and cobs, and shredded papers. These are very absorbent and pellets lock in odors. It's always a good idea to buy in bulk, it lasts longer and is cheaper. We like to use Pets Pick and Kaytee brands. If these brands aren't in your town, choose a small mammal litter/bedding that will be safe, clean, and very easy to change, (such as aspen bedding ecetera). Never buy cedar bedding, it irritates hamsters eyes and lungs, and it's not a comfy bedding. Leaves and bark shouldn't be used either.

If dwarf hamsters are in the same cage together bedding needs to be changed more often. Cover the cage floor at least two inches deep. If your hamster likes to burrow then add more. The litter should be enough bedding to absorb the urine and stools and still be dry.

Is it safe to put my hamster with another hamster?

Syrian hamsters have to be caged seperately. Although common hamsters are not caged together, there are hamsters that have completely opposite characteristics. These hamsters are called Dwarf Hamsters because of their smaller bodies. These hamsters enjoy living in pairs and should not fight when people are kept together. If they do fight, seperate them as soon as possible.

What is a good cage/habitat for my hamster?

Hamsters will enjoy living in plastic and wire combination cages, glass aquariums at least ten gallons or more, and metal/plastic cages. Place the hamster's cage in a room with no direct sunlight. This room also needs to be quiet and at room temperature, or around 68 degrees. If you buy wire make sure the plastic bottom is tall enough for lots of bedding, and that the wire isn't easy to squeeze out of.

What items should I place in my hamster's cage?

Hamsters need food and water just like us. A
water bottle should be bought to keep your hamster hydrated. A heavy food bowl so that the hamster cannot tip it over is also a nessessity. They also need exersize. An exercise wheel to use up the extra energy your hamster has. Avoid barred ones, and follow the U rule, while running, your hamster's back shouldn't be in a U, if it is, get a bigger wheel. It's hard on their backs. A chewing stick, possibly a clipping from an apple tree, or a store bought package of hamster chewing sticks. These are for keeping the hamster's teeth short; otherwise problems can occur with the gums or teeth causing sickness or even be fatal. Those are necessities. Optional items include plastic toys and beds, bins for potty use, or snacks like alfalfa or treats.
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