How to Care for Golden Hamsters

Golden, or Syrian, hamsters are solitary animals that can live up to three or four years. Syrian hamsters are the largest of hamster breeds, growing to a length of 6 inches. They are nocturnal creatures, sleeping most of the day and running about at night. Most hamsters do become accustomed to their human friends and, with the proper knowledge and care, they can be happy household pets.

Things You'll Need

  • Syrian hamster
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Instructions

    • 1

      House your Syrian hamster alone. They do not get along with other hamsters after they are about 6 to 10 weeks old.

    • 2

      Give your hamster enough room to grow and move about. If you are buying a cage for a baby Syrian, remember that he will grow to be 6 inches long. Buy a cage that will accommodate his size as he grows.

    • 3

      Use proper bedding for your hamster. Pine and cedar bedding should not be used because they are toxic. Biodegradable wood pulp or shredded paper are the best choices for the bottom of your hamster's cage.

    • 4

      Clean all areas of your hamster's cage thoroughly once a week. This includes the water bottle and food dish.

    • 5

      Give your hamster a wheel for exercise. The wheel should be solid with no rungs or cracks that could catch small toes or feet. A wheel that attaches to the side of the cage is optimal.

    • 6

      Provide your hamster with enough toys. Give him things to chew and climb. To prevent boredom, rotate toys every couple of weeks.

    • 7

      Give your hamster a place to hide away. You can purchase many of these items but even a cardboard box with the bottom and a side window cut out give your hamster a place to hide.

    • 8

      Handle hamsters with care because they are fragile at any age. Young hamsters are shy and it will take time for them to become comfortable with you. You need to work with your hamster regularly in the evening after they've slept. Tap lightly on your hamster's cage and talk to him to make sure he is awake before you reach into the cage and grab him. If he reacts defensively when you put your hand in his cage, offer him a treat and let him calm down and then attempt to pet him.