Dwarf Russian Hamster Care

Dwarf Russian hamsters are often preferred over larger hamsters due to size and appeal of small hamsters. Dwarf Russian hamsters make great pets provided the owner keeps a few things in mind. This article will elaborate on the things you need to know to care for your dwarf Russian hamster.

Dwarf Russian hamsters need a cage that is escape proof since these little critters try to escape whenever possible. The cage you choose should either be an aquarium or a wire cage with sturdy metal. If you are choosing a tunnel or tube play cage then you should ensure that you pick up a cage that is large enough for your pet hamster. The cage you choose should also be easy to clean since you will need to wash the cage twice or thrice a month.

Dwarf Russian Hamsters by Alensha

After choosing a cage for your dwarf Russian hamster you will need to choose suitable bedding. Bedding soaks up urine and also keeps your pet warm. The bedding you choose should be absorbent but it should be safe for your pet. Pine shavings and cedar shavings are harmful to hamsters since they cause skin and respiratory problems. If you are on a budget then you can use clean old newspapers for bedding. You should also make sure that you change the bedding at least once a week preferably twice a week. Old bedding that collects urine and poop can cause skin problems for hamsters and it also accumulates harmful organisms like mold, mildew and insects.

The dwarf Russian hamster's diet consists of seeds, vegetables and fruits. These hamsters also eat hamster pellets but you should not feed hamster pellets more than thrice a week since hamsters also require fresh food. Vegetables should be given to your pet dwarf Russian hamster every day, fruits should be given thrice a week and seeds should be given twice a week. Most Russian dwarf pets love tomato and cucumber but both these foods should be fed maximum thrice a week. You can definitely give your hamster small pieces of cheese, boiled egg and cooked chicken twice a week.

Chocolates, avocados, coffee, sodas and processed foods meant for humans should not be given to hamsters. If you allow your hamster to play around the house or if you have kept a small plant in his cage then you should ensure that the plants in your house are safe for hamsters. Plants or vegetables that have been sprayed with pesticides should not be given to hamsters since this can cause gastrointestinal problems. Teflon fumes and deodorant fumes are toxic to your furry pet so you should make sure that your pet does not inhale these fumes. Paint and household cleaners should also not be used close to your pet cage.

Dwarf Russian hamster make wonderful pets and they are fairly easy to care for you just have to follow a few simple instructions and make sure they have the proper food, housing and water at all times.

Author Resource: Written by Dawn Morris
For the most complete and up to date information on the care and raising of your pet dwarf hamsters. Go to www.friendlydwarfhamster.com