One of the most common questions I am asked about pet hamsters is, "What type of hamster should I?" The answer is, it depends on your preference. A hamsters typically live 2-3 years. You want to make sure that you love the "perfect" hamster and take care!
There are five types of hamsters. You should have no problem finding this species in a pet shop. It is the Syrian hamster and four dwarf hamsters (Chinese, Campbell, Winter White and Roborovski). Below are factors that will help you decide:
There are five types of hamsters. You should have no problem finding this species in a pet shop. It is the Syrian hamster and four dwarf hamsters (Chinese, Campbell, Winter White and Roborovski). Below are factors that will help you decide:
Appearance
- Size - Syrians are the largest, about 4-5 cm. Chinese dwarf is about 4-5 inches, but only because the 1-inch tail is included. Campbell and Winter Whites are 3-4 inches. Roborovski is the smallest species of hamster hamsters of all 24 species.
- All four hamsters a stubby tail barely visible under the skin beside the Chinese Dwarf, which has a tail about an inch long - tails.
- Coats - The Syrian hamster has the most variation in coats. Campbell and Winter Whites have some special coats. Winter White is especially all turn white in winter, when the temperature is low enough. Roborovski and Chinese hamsters to breed fur usually in their natural (agouti).
- Shape - All four hamsters have a nice barrel shape. Chinese hamsters can be a bit thinner.
Gregariousness
- Before tamed - Syrians and Campbell are generally accepting of human touch, but still require training. Winter White, Roborovski and Chinese hamster may be aggressive and bite even with strangers.
- After tamed - some say the Chinese dwarf hamsters and dwarf in particular, nor aggressive. But that all depends on how they are tamed and many unexplained conditions.
- Habitat Mates - Generally Syrian and Chinese hamsters must be housed alone. A hamster, one cage. Winter White and Campbell should be kept separately in the rule. Roborovski can be kept with other Robos, when they were together before weaning. You can try to keep more than one hamster in a cage / habitat. Make sure the cage is large enough, because hamsters are territorial. After the start to fight, you should have a separate cage because they can fight to the death.
- Female or male - In general, there is not much difference. Pregnant females, however, will be very aggressive and sensitive.
Play Time
- Schedule - All five hamsters are nocturnal. Wake up time is in the evening.
- Energy - Roborovski are always energetic. They can be quickly and everyone nervous. the other dwarf hamsters are much slower. And hamster is slow enough to easily handle.
- Handling: - Some hamsters like to be treated, others do not. This really does not depend on their personality and if they tamed. Part of the fun with the hamster is also watching himself play in their cages.
Other Considerations
- Costs - you want to get a bigger cage for the Syrian hamster. You can also add more beds for this reason. But in general, the costs are approximately equal.
- Room - Leave more space for a hamster.
- Smell and cleaning - All hamster cages should be cleaned once a week. Their bodies are naturally odorless but can smell their urine.
- Health - All 4 Hamsters are prone to long-term illnesses such as cancer and diabetes, with the exception of the Roborovski which has better longevity.
Please note that each hamster has its own personality. Once you have decided you like a particular type when you visit the pet store, ask the store keeper, so you can see how he or she treat the hamster. This can give you a better idea of whether your hamster may be too aggressive, lazy, energetic, etc. for your preferences.It's always a good idea to do some research when getting a new pet. Hopefully this article will help you narrow down the hamster suits you best!
