How to Care for Dwarf Hamsters

Dwarf hamsters make excellent pets and, unlike Syrian hamsters, they can often be kept in same sex pairs. Because they are only about half the size of Syrian hamsters, they need some specialized care. However, they are not more difficult to keep.

Things You'll Need

  • Dwarf hamster cage
  • Pine shavings
  • Small hamster wheel
  • Hamster food
  • Water bottle
  • Food dish
  • Wood chew treats
  • Bed and bedding
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Instructions

  1. Choosing a Hamster

    • 1

      Choose which type of dwarf hamster you want. There are three basic varieties: Campbell's Russian, Winter Whites (or Siberian) and Roborovski. Chinese hamsters are often listed as dwarf because of their size, but they are not true dwarfs. The most commonly sold dwarf hamsters are Campbell's Russian Dwarf Hamsters. Winter White, or Siberian, dwarfs are also fairly common. Both of these hamsters have a dark dorsal stripe that runs down their back. Roborovski Dwarf are smaller and faster than other types of dwarfs. Unlike are the smallest and fastest of all dwarfs available to buy. They do not have a dorsal stripe like Campbell's. These are not usually good hamsters for beginners or children.

    • 2

      Look for hamsters that are healthy and in good condition. The eyes should be clear. The coat should be clean and free of any bare patches. It is better if the hamsters have been socialized when they are young, as it will make them easier to handle.

    • 3

      If you plan on getting more than one hamster, try to get two from the same litter. This will minimize any fighting that they might do. Make sure you get two that are the same sex.

    • 4

      If you don't have one already, purchase a small plastic container to bring the hamsters home in. While the pet store will give you a box, you will need this container when you clean the cage and it will prevent any accidental escapes as you take them home.

    Choosing the Right Supplies

    • 5

      Because of their size, some of the toys and housing will need to be smaller. If purchasing a hamster cage with tubing or bars make sure that it states it can be used for dwarf hamsters or mice. Some tubing is too large for dwarf hamsters to use and dwarf hamsters are small enough to slip through the bars of a standard hamster cage.

    • 6

      Make sure the water bottle is adjustable or that you can raise the flooring enough for the dwarf hamsters to reach it.

    • 7

      Prepare your hamster cage by lining it with pine shavings. Cleaning will be easier if you line the bottom of the cage with paper towels first.

    • 8

      Dwarf hamsters are burrowers and need a dark place to sleep during the day. You can purchase special beds from the pet store or make your own using a small milk carton or box. Give them some soft bedding to line it with.

    • 9

      While it is not necessary, you can opt to purchase a smaller wheel for your dwarf hamster. Whatever wheel you purchase, test it to see if squeaks. Hamsters are nocturnal and a squeaky wheel can drive you crazy. If the wheel does start to squeak, lube it with vegetable oil. Other types of oil can be dangerous.

    • 10

      Dwarf hamsters need the same diet as other types of hamsters and can be fed regular hamster food. However, it is a good idea to offer them some treats such as fruit, vegetables, and grains. Stay away from sugar, salt and citrus.

    • 11

      Dwarf hamsters, like all rodents, have teeth that continually grow. Provide them with some chew sticks to help keep their teeth from getting too long.

    • 12

      Clean your hamster's cage at least once every week to two weeks.