UCMEP

Dwarf Hamsters are new to the pet scene, but are gaining in popularity because they are friendlier and more sociable than most hamsters.    

Although dwarf hamsters are becoming more popular there is one type that has grown immensely among many hamster lovers; The dwarf Russian hamster.  There are only three popular types of dwarf Russian hamsters that are readily available that include Russian Winter White, Campbell’s Russian Dwarf Hamster, and the Roborovski hamster.

Russian Winter White Dwarf Hamster – can usually be mostly found around North America pet shops as well as private breeders.   As the name suggest it can change its fur coat white during the cold months to avoid being eaten. As a pet this dwarf hamster will usually only have a blue grey fur and sometimes a dark stripe that goes down the back of the hamster.

Campbell’s Russian Dwarf Hamster – the most commonly sold in pet shops.   Even though this hamster also has a dark stripe down its back it is not a winter white hamster.  It will normally have a white belly along with grey brown fur.   Some of these hamsters have been breed to have much different colors as well.   These hamsters tend to live peaceably in groups.

Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters – If you are looking for a dwarf hamster that is longer than two inches than the Roborovski hamster is not for you.   The stripe that is found on many dwarf hamsters is not on the Roborovski.  They also wear a brownish coat along with spots located above their eyes. These hamsters form a strong bond with others of their kind, and will eat, sleep and play together.   You need to hold on to these animals tight enough so they will not escape, otherwise you will be up all night trying to catch your pet.   Place them in their proper cage and you will have a fun time observing these cute animals.   

With the right dwarf hamster care you can own pets that will live longer than the average dwarf hamster.   Here is a list of supplies and tips you should use when caring for dwarf hamsters:

• A roomy, secure habitat that is well-ventilated, but protected from draft

• Keep your dwarf hamster properly hydrated with enough water.

• A simple hamster food mix for feeding.

• Only give them the recommended type of food and no treats.

• Chew toys can help your hamster to grind its teeth properly as well.

• Hamsters are natural runners and will definitely need a wheel.

• Tunnels to explore

• Creating a small bed will allow your dwarf hamster to sleep much better.

• Make sure to clean them when your hamster becomes dirty.

If you want to breed dwarf hamsters make sure you have pairs of opposite sexes meet at birth or an early age.   Females may become aggressive when pregnant, and nip or bite their cage mates, as well as the hand that feeds them.   During the days when your dwarf hamster is pregnant a high calcium diet is critical to maintain a healthy pet.   Remove the female from the others so that she can give birth in a separate place of her own.

Sometimes the mother may leave her babies and can sometimes eat their children.   It is therefore important to provide the Dwarf Hamster family with ideal conditions, and ensure that the female does not feel threatened.   She should perceive there to be adequate food, water and shelter for her brood.   If it is absolutely necessary to touch the babies, gloves should be worn to avoid contaminating them with human scent.   Once the babies are a week old, it is unlikely that their mother will reject them.