Dwarf hamster FAQs
Whether you’re yet to get a pet and are just doing some research or you’ve already welcomed one into the family, we’ve collected some common questions from owners of dwarf hamsters to help you navigate your way through pet ownership.
My hamster doesn’t seem to drink much, should I be worried?
It’s critical to remember that dwarf hamsters are tiny animals. Animals typically drink 10ml of water for every 100g of body weight. Dwarf hamsters typically weigh 25–40g, so they only require a few milliliters of water per day, which won’t cause their water bottle level to drop significantly.
If any treats, like fruit or vegetables, are provided, the hamsters will drink even less than this because they will get plenty of moisture from these as well. It’s a good idea to lightly tap the metal spout on their water bottle to ensure that drops of water are being released. Check the location of the water bottle as well to ensure that they can easily access it.
Despite being described as friendly when I purchased two Russian hamsters, they are currently fighting. What should I do?
Although dwarf hamsters can live in pairs or groups without issue, when they reach adolescence, territorial behavior can be observed, which can occasionally lead to fighting. Start by examining their immediate environment to rule out anything that might be upsetting them, such as unfamiliar noises, heat, cold, etc. Then, make sure each hamster has their own hide, food bowl, and water bottle by checking the cage.
Spreading their food out over their cage to promote foraging is one way to prevent disputes over food. Make sure the cage contains plenty of enrichment such as toys, hides, tunnels and chews which might mean moving them to a bigger cage. You might also need to provide two wheels. If fighting continues, they will need separating into their own cage as not only is the fighting very stressful for them, there is also a high risk of injuries or even death.
My hamster keeps biting me when I try to pick them up, what am I doing wrong?
When hamsters are stressed, terrified, or disturbed, they bite. Your hamster will require some time to adjust to their new surroundings and to you. When dealing with them, you should be patient, beginning with short, frequent sessions. Avoid waking your hamster awake for handling because it causes stress and makes them more inclined to bite. Handle your hamster in the evenings or at night because that is when they normally wake up and get active.
Begin by gradually accustoming your hamster to your hands in their cage rather than quickly picking them up and transporting them to an unknown location. Prior to handling, wash your hands and rub them in the hamster’s substrate before allowing him or her to sniff you. You can even put a treat or piece of food on your hand to make the experience more joyful. Getting your hamster used to handling can take a few days or even weeks so be patient, it will be worth it in the end.
My hamster’s wheel squeaks when they’re in it, how do I make this stop?
A silent wheel or a flying saucer style wheel may be a better option for you as these are designed to be quiet. Alternatively you could pop a very small drop of vegetable oil down the middle of the wheel as a lubricant which can help reduce the noise from the wheel.
My Roborovskis have greasy fur, should I be cleaning their coats?
Hamsters such as Roborovskis love to have a sand bath which will also help to remove excess grease in their fur. Make sure you get sand specific for small animals. Add a few teaspoons of the sand to a shallow bowl for your hamsters to climb in and out of. Roborovskis are naturally very inquisitive and so they will soon investigate and roll around in the sand bath.
You can leave the sand bath in their cage 24/7 but it will quickly get soiled so we would recommend leaving it in the cage for a few hours in the evening. Even after just 10 minutes in the sand you will quickly see the difference in their coats! It’s good practice to routinely provide a sand bath to help keep hamsters coats clean and healthy.
I’m worried my hamster has a tumour on its tummy. What should I do?
For any abnormal lumps or bumps it’s best to get veterinary advice as there are many possible causes, some of which are treated more easily than others. Particularly in males, a dwarf hamsters’ scent gland can appear to be a tumour-like growth but this is in fact perfectly normal. In dwarf hamsters this gland is located on their tummy.
Hopefully this has helped answer any kind of questions you may have about your dwarf hamster. If you have more questions, add a comment below to let us know!
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