Are you looking for a pet that is very small but also super cute? A dwarf hamster may be a great option for you. These tiny balls of fur are quite cute and charming. However, they do need proper care to thrive. A Seminole, FL vet discusses dwarf hamsters in this article.
As the name suggests, dwarf hamsters are very small. They rarely grow more than four inches long. Some are only two inches! As with most tiny animals, they don’t live very long. With good care, Hammie will live about 2 to 3 years.
Your tiny furball should eat mostly high-quality hamster blocks. You can supplement this with small amounts of grains, fruits and veggies, and grass hay, such as Timothy hay. Be sure to discard uneaten food quickly. Your pet will also need fresh water every day. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Your furry friend’s home can be either plastic, metal, or glass. Your pint-sized pal will spend most of his time in his cage, so you want to make it fun and comfy for him. Remember, bigger is always better when choosing animal habitats! You’ll need to add a few inches of bedding. This can be paper based. Avoid pine and cedar substrates, as they aren’t safe for little pets. Hamsters chew a lot, so you’ll also need to give the little guy mineral chews or other chew toys.
Hammie is usually a loner. However, he may be okay with a same sex roommate, but only if they are raised together.
Hamsters are nocturnal by nature, but they often do adjust their schedules to match their owners’ routines. They can sometimes keep children awake, though. Keep this in mind when deciding where to put Hammie’s cage.
You shouldn’t need to bathe your hamster, unless he gets something spilled on him. However, you can wipe him down with an unscented baby wipe or a damp cloth. Hammie may also enjoy dust baths.
Watch for signs of sickness. Some common ones include hair loss, diarrhea, respiratory issues, weight loss, listlessness, and lack of appetite. Dental problems are also not uncommon. If you notice any of these issues, or if Hammie’s teeth are too long, contact your vet.
Do you have questions about dwarf hamster care? Contact us, your local Seminole, FL veterinary clinic, today!
