A hamster is arguably the best choice if you consider getting a low-maintenance pet.
So, if you’re thinking of adopting a hamster or have already adopted one, then there are a few things you must know. While hamsters are easy to take care of, they are different from other animals.
Hamsters are ideal for people who do not have space for a giant pet but want the company of a fluffy animal.
To gain information about hamsters, you must read about them as much as possible. Websites like Homepethelp have ample resources about pets like hamsters and how to take care of them. So, if you’re looking for more information about your pet rodent, you must head onto such websites to know all you need.
Here are some things you must know about before adopting a hamster.
1. Do not house males and female hamsters together
You must not adopt hamsters of opposite genders as they will likely start breeding.
Even if you want to breed the hamsters, you must keep male and female hamsters in separate enclosures. There are chances that the male might attack the female or the children if they are in a single enclosure.
Unlike dogs, hamsters do not mind being alone, they are solitary animals, and there is no harm in keeping them in different enclosures.
2. They need a lot of exercises
Hamsters need a lot of exercise, no matter how old or young. Unlike a dog, you can not take them for a walk, but you can make it easier for them to exercise themselves.
You can achieve that by installing an exercise wheel in their enclosure, and this will help them get their daily exercise. However, ensure that the wheel is big enough for your hamster.
Besides setting a wheel, you can allow the hamster to play out in the open if you believe you can keep an eye on them.
On the other hand, if you do not want them running around and the wheel seems small for them, you can invest in a large enclosure altogether.
3. Nocturnal animals
Unlike other common household pets, hamsters are nocturnal animals, which means they sleep during the day and are the most active at night. So, do not get scared if you hear nibbling noises at night.
4. They are not a fan of loud noises
Many people do not know this, but hamsters dislike loud noise. Sounds from a vacuum, TV, or even people shouting could frighten them. Moreover, a loud or sudden noise could hamper their sleep cycle since they sleep during the day. This is why it is best to house them in a quiet area of the house where they will not be bothered by loud noises.
5. Hamsters are timid
A hamster will not warm up to you as quickly as a dog would; they will take their own sweet time. This is because they are wild prey animals, and it can be long before they get accustomed to you.
So, you must not be in a hurry to pick them up or pet them. Once they feel comfortable, you notice they might even start approaching you.
These are some common things you need to know about hamsters. You can read a lot more about them on websites like Homepethelp.
Remember that you must never keep a male or female hamster together, and ensure you buy a big enclosure to make them more comfortable.