Has a hamster recently joined your household? Congratulations! These adorable little furballs are quite charming, and can make very endearing little pets. Hamsters are very easy to care for: just providing Hammy with a clean, comfy cage; suitable toys; and good food will see to his most essential needs. Hamsters are very fragile, however, and can easily be hurt. Read on as a Fayetteville, NC vet offers some tips on keeping your hamster safe and happy.

Use Runabouts Carefully

Exercise balls can be lots of fun for hamsters, but they can also be very dangerous if they aren’t used correctly. Be sure to choose a product that is the right size for your pet. It’s also important to supervise little Hammie carefully when he’s in his runabout: don’t let him roll down any stairs, or fall into pools or puddles. Also, take your furry pal out after about 10 minutes, so he doesn’t get exhausted, overstimulated, or scared.

Choose Toys Wisely

Be sure to only give your miniature buddy safe, suitable playthings. Avoid items with sharp edges and/or small parts that could break off and choke the little one, as well as anything with loose threads that could entangle him. Items covered in paint, varnish, glitter, and/or dye are also dangerous. If you get an exercise wheel, avoid wire ones, as they can be dangerous. Ask your vet for more information.

Food

Hamsters may be small, but they have huge appetites. Be careful not to let your furry friend eat any foods that are dangerous for him! Ask your vet for nutritional recommendations.

Temperature Control

If Hammie gets too hot or too cold, he could get very sick! Avoid putting your furry friend in direct sunlight or drafty areas. Keep your pet in a room that always stays between and 65 and 75 °F. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Keep Fluffy and Fido Away

Dogs and cats make wonderful pets. Unfortunately, they may see little Hammie as a toy, or worse, prey. When you let your tiny furball out to play, keep your other pets in another room. We also recommend putting your hamster’s cage somewhere Fido and Fluffy can’t reach it. That way, they won’t scare the little guy by sniffing around.

Do you have questions about hamster care? We’re here to help! Feel free to contact us, your Fayetteville, NC animal hospital, anytime!