There are various types and colors, they are small and clean, which is why many families choose them as their pets. But you should know that the hamster has certain characteristics that may not fit with all families. Read up more on how to care for Albino Red-Eyed Hamsters this guide will give you a lot more than you expect

Having a hamster is usually very exciting, especially for the little ones in the house. The older ones usually either hate them or love them. The cricetins are a subfamily of rodents, commonly known as hamsters (word that comes from German).

Most of the current species are native to the Middle East and the southeastern United States. The most characteristic of the hamster are the expandable bags, called pouches , that they have inside the mouth from the cheeks to the shoulders. Because they are so easy to breed in captivity, hamsters are widely used as laboratory animals and as pets .

Hamster types

1. Roborowski’s hamster. The Roborovski Dwarf Hamster (Phodopus roborovski) is the smallest of the most common hamster breeds. It reaches 5 cm in length and lives on average about three years. As this breed is so small and they are able to get out between the spaces of the wire cages, it is best to put them in a mesh top aquarium. The Roborovski is a fast moving hamster. He loves to be active so make sure you provide him with plenty of toys and activities. .

These hamsters can be handled, but like other breeds, they are happier if left alone (besides being so small they can easily escape and get lost). They can get together with others of the same sex, but it is better not to do so and, if necessary, the introduction should be done properly and as soon as possible. If you want to have multiple hamsters, the Dwarf Roborovski is a great choice. .

2. Syrian or golden hamster. The Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) is the most popular pet, especially among children. They measure approximately 15 cm and have a life of two to four years. Its color is usually golden brown and white.

The Syrian hamster is relatively easy to housetrain, being the slowest of the ‘house’ hamsters and the least prone to biting. Although they are docile with humans, they are territorial with other hamsters and must always be left alone.

The Syrian is true to its nocturnal nature and is rarely active during the day. The best times to interact with this hamster are early morning or late afternoon. .

3. Chinese hamster. The Chinese hamster (Cricetus griseus) can measure up to 12 cm and its life expectancy is three years. This species is known to be friendly and comfortable with handling if tamed and handled from a young age. If the animal is not used to being picked up since childhood, it will be shy and nervous and may even bite. .

They are small and fast so be careful as they can easily slip out of your hands. The Chinese hamster is a friendly species that can be kept in groups or same-sex pairs. .

4. Dwarf Russian Hamster. The Campbell’s Dwarf Russian Hamster (Phodopus campbelli) grows to a maximum of 11 cm and has an average life expectancy of two years. This is another breed that can be kept in same-sex groups as long as the hamsters are properly introduced.

The Campbell’s Dwarf Russian Hamster is a fast little animal and can be prone to biting if threatened. They are friendly and don’t mind being picked up if it’s done correctly. Although they are nocturnal, these hamsters may wake up for short periods throughout the day.

Campbell’s dwarf hamster. Campbell’s hamster. They are similar to the Russian hamster, but are slightly plumper. Its weight is usually around 35 or 55 grams and can measure up to 10 cm. Due to its small size and round body it can fit through the bars of many hamster cages. .

How to take care of a hamster

These are a series of general recommendations that you should take into account.

1. Prepare your habitat well. Your new friend (or friend) needs a safe home in which to explore and feel comfortable. Explore colors, tubes, accessories and add-ons to create a unique space with lots of places to tunnel, hide and burrow. Choose a bed where they can burrow and make sure you choose the right size water bottle.

2. Put it in a suitable place. The location is essential for your pet to feel happy. Put your hamster’s home close to the sounds of your family, but not right in the middle of it. You’ll feel good about everyday sounds, but you’ll get stressed by loud noises. Also make sure to keep their homes away from any drafts to ensure they are in a safe and temperature controlled environment.

3. Cover his cage with a light cloth for the first few days. When you bring your new hamster home, everything is new to him. Give him the time he needs to get to know his new place by placing a light cloth over his cage.

4. Wait a few days before trying to catch it. Like any new friendship, it takes time to get to know someone and feel comfortable with them. After a few days giving him food and water he will begin to trust you.

5. Clean your house regularly. There is a happy medium between keeping your hamster’s house clean and comfortable and creating excessive stress by cleaning it too much. Usually:

– Clean the bathroom area daily – Clean your food bowl weekly – Change the water daily – Empty his entire cage weekly or twice a week

6. Give him time to be out of his cage. A great way to get your hamster some exercise and bonding time is to provide ample play time outside of its habitat each week. You can prepare a small enclosed area with lots of toys and some treats for him to explore and greet his human family from him.

7. Take your time to bond with your hamster. Patience, regular feedings, lots of outside play, and gentle conversations will help you bond with your hamster. Make sure you always approach your pet slowly and talk to him conversationally. He will learn to recognize your scent and your voice and will see you as a source of comfort