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Besides being irresistibly cute and adorable, hamsters are fun to watch, are relatively easy to care for, and they make great pets. According to the website "Hamsters - General Care", published by Animal Health Center, hamsters that are handled often while they are young are usually friendly and are not likely to bite. Hamsters that are not friendly should be handled with gloves on, or they should be picked up with a towel. The article also suggests coaxing the hamster into a small box instead of picking it up when it is time to clean the cage.
A very popular cage for hamsters is the plastic type with see through tunnels. These are sturdy and can be made larger with connecting tubes. Aquariums make great enclosures for hamsters as well. "Hamsters - General Care" also mentions the use of wire cages, but recommends something with a solid base. It advises that the cage should be escape proof, it needs to be at least six inches high, and it should have a minimum floor size of twenty square inches for each hamster. As well as having plenty of space for exercise, you can provide your hamster with a wheel to run in. There are also clear plastic exercise balls available. They snap apart in the middle, and there are holes for ventilation. Your hamster can run safely wherever he wants, and you will have a good time watching his antics. Hamsters also love cardboard tissue paper and toweling tubes. They will use them to hide in, run through, and they will enjoy shredding them into bedding material.
"Hamsters - General Care" recommends shaved wood, shredded paper, or corn cob processed especially for small animal bedding in their habitats. It goes on to say that the cage should be cleaned and sanitized with hot, soapy water once a week.
Food made especially for a hamster's nutritional needs are available in most stores. Hamster treats and chew sticks are usually available as well. "Hamsters - General Care" suggests that hamsters can also be fed supplements of poultry, fish, cheese, raw pasta, sugarless cereals, and pesticide-free vegetables and fruits. Also, they should be fed using heavy, tip-resistant bowls. Water bottles for hamsters are the most practical. They are easy to clean with a bottle brush and hot, soapy water. The food bowls and water bottle should be cleaned each day.
Providing your hamster with a clean environment, nutritious food, and fresh water will help keep him healthy and happy. In return, your hamster will provide you with countless hours of entertainment.
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