Looking for a guide to a happy hamster? You’re in luck — we’ve got everything you need to know about keeping your hamster happy and healthy. With these expert tips and tricks, your hamster will feel safe and supported from their first day in their new home, and for years to come.
What makes a hamster happy?
There are several things that affect how happy your hamster is. The crucial factors that impact hamster happiness are:
Safety
Comfort
Nutrition
Enrichment
Here’s an in depth look at each of these, and how to implement them in your hamster’s habitat.
Safety
As prey animals, hamsters are naturally on alert for potential dangers. If a hamster feels too exposed in their home, they’ll quickly become stressed in their surroundings. Having plenty of spaces for your hamster to find seclusion will help them feel safe in their home. Placing hamster hides around their habitat, and providing a deep layer of bedding for burrowing will help your small pet feel secure in their home.
Comfort
A hamster habitat should have a bedding tray deep enough to accommodate extensive burrowing, and should be large enough for your hamster to have dedicated sleep, eating, and toilet areas. Use comfortable bedding like recycled paper intended for small animals. This bedding is soft, absorbent, and dust-free, making it ideal for your hamster. Avoid using wood shavings, as these can cause respiratory issues in hamsters, as well as posing a risk of ingestion.
Nutrition
Hamsters are little animals, but they have big appetites. In fact, they’ll happily hoard stashes of food around their habitat to make sure they always have a snack on standby. You’ll notice your hamster stuffing their cheek pouches full of food to carry to their designated snacking station, so it’s important to give them the right nutrition to support their active bodies. Choose a quality hamster pellet rather than the “trail mix” variety that contains several different feed components. Offer seeds sparingly, as well as small pieces fresh fruits and vegetables. Treats like these should be offered no more than 2-3 times per week.
Enrichment
Your hamster will have a fast metabolism to go along with their hearty appetite. Since hamsters are nocturnal, they’ll sleep all day, but wake up during the evening hours with their voracious appetite — resulting in lots of energy to burn. Hamsters need a quality exercise wheel to run on to help keep their minds and bodies engaged, with some hamsters capable of running up to 5 miles in a single night. Along with their wheel, give your pet hamster tunnels or ramps and platforms to provide even more opportunity to exhibit natural behaviour patterns.
Bonding with your hamster
Hamsters are popular pets for children, but it is important to note that they are more instinct driven than other small pets. Their nocturnal nature makes daytime sleep schedules a necessity, and they can be more difficult to hand tame than other pets. But, with the right expectations in mind, they can be enjoyable pets for every member of the family.
To make sure your hamster gets the happiest start possible, give them at least 1 week to settle into their new home before attempting to interact with them. Talk to them while they’re awake to get them used to your voice, but don’t introduce physical contact until they’re fully settled. Once they seem comfortable and familiar with their new home, slowly begin introductions by placing your hand in their habitat and allowing them to sniff or climb on you. After a few days of this process, you can begin lifting them in your hand to get them familiar with being handled.
Once you’re able to handle your hamster, you’ll be able to transfer them to a hamster playpen for more playtime possibilities. Build mazes or obstacle courses for your hamster, or interact with them in an open environment for convenient and comfortable bonding time. Your hamster will soon learn to associate your presence with fun activities and gentle handling, building a bond that will last throughout your hamster’s life.
What to avoid to keep your hamster happy
To keep your hamster in a happy mindset, there are some things to avoid. Steer clear of these to preserve your hamster’s positive attitude and overall health.
Waking them during the day
Hamsters are nocturnal, and need their rest during the day. Waking a hamster in the middle of their sleep cycle is a sure way to make them grumpy, which could lead to them giving you a nip out of confusion or agitation.
Sudden movements or loud noises
Being prey animals, hamsters are easily startled. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises to lower your hamster’s stress. Opt for playtime in quiet rooms and move slowly when handling your hamster.
Fatty foods
Bread, pasta, sweets, and other processed foods aren’t good for hamsters. Stick to seeds, fresh fruits and vegetables, and unsweetened whole grain cereal as treats for your hamster.
Omlet and your hamster
The key to a happy hamster is a supportive home. Both the care you give them and their hamster habitat are essential in giving them a healthy and happy life. With our hamster products, you’ll provide your pet with everything they need to live their best lives. From hamster tunnels to hamster playpens, enjoy interacting with your pet and building a bond forged in happiness.
Hamsters make great pets — not just for kids, but for anyone looking for an easygoing companion. Get ready to learn all about hamster care for beginners. Everything from choosing their habitat, what to feed them, and how to interact with them, you’ll soon have the confidence to care for your new small pet.
The basic needs of a hamster
Hamsters make fun pets that are relatively easy to care for. These small members of the rodent family are nocturnal, so they’ll sleep while you’re at school or work, and will be active after the sun sets. Hamsters need a few things to keep them healthy and happy. These are:
A secure hamster habitat with an exercise wheel
Hamster food pellets and clean water
Enriching accessories for exercise
With these essentials, you’ll be ready to host a hamster in your home, and enjoy the company they offer.
A hamster habitat
Many people envision small, wire hamster cages when they think of an enclosure for these small pets. Traditionally, hamster habitats have been smaller, wire enclosures with various accessories attached. But hamsters actually have diverse needs when it comes to their habitat. They should have plenty of room to exercise, burrow, roam, and an area to relieve themselves.
Omlet’s Hamster Habitat is spacious, designed with you and your hamster in mind. It’s spacious, easy to clean, and offers a deep bedding tray for your hamster to create their own network of burrows. The integrated hamster wheel spins smoothly and silently — letting your furry friend burn off energy during their waking hours. Optional tubes, ramps, and platforms can also be added to utilize vertical space, and to give your hamster even more room to explore.
Hamster diet
Hamsters love to eat. But what they put into their mouths (and pouches) matters to their overall health and well-being. To stay fit and healthy, hamsters need access to quality feed pellets free-choice, with nutritious treats interspersed throughout the week. Pellets should make up the majority of your hamster’s diet. Avoid choosing a hamster diet that resembles trail mix, with various elements added in. Hamsters will pick out the tastiest bits and leave the most nutritious pieces behind.
Forage like timothy hay is also beneficial to offer to your hamster routinely to help aid in their digestion and trim their ever-growing incisor teeth. Other hamster-friendly treats that should be offered no more than 2 or 3 times a week include:
Fresh fruit like apples, bananas, or berries
Fresh veggies like broccoli, carrots, cucumbers or lettuce
Boiled or unseasoned scrambled egg
Accessories
Hamsters may sleep all day, but they are bundles of energy during the evening, overnight, and early in the morning. Some hamsters have even been recorded to run upwards of 5 miles on their wheels in a single night. With so much energy being stored throughout the day, you’ll want to make sure that your hamster has plenty to do when they’re awake.
Hamster tubes are one of the most popular hamster accessories, and for good reason. Hamsters love to tunnel and burrow, and tubes do a great job of simulating this excavating behaviour while giving you a front row seat to the action. Creating loops, switchbacks, and intersections with hamster tubes gives owners a chance to exercise their ingenuity, and gives your hamster a great opportunity to exercise their minds and bodies.
Other popular hamster accessories include:
Exercise balls
Climbers
Gnaws and chews
DIY hamster mazes
When you bring your hamster out to play, make sure to keep them in an escape-proof playpen. From there, you can build mazes, obstacle courses, or let them take their hamster ball for a spin in a safe and contained environment.
Routine hamster care
Caring for your hamster can be broken down into daily, weekly and monthly routines. These should only take a few minutes, leaving you plenty of time to play and interact with your hamster.
Daily
Make sure that your hamster has plenty of pellets in their food bowl and water in their bottle. Wipe clean any noticeably dirty surfaces, and tidy up their habitat if things were displaced overnight. The aim of daily checks and tasks is to prepare your hamster for their busy night ahead.
Weekly
Clean your hamster’s habitat at least once a week by removing any obviously soiled bedding. Hamsters usually pick a particular corner or place in their home to use as a toilet, making this task easy on you. Wipe their water bottle nozzle clean if needed, along with their wheel, food bowl, or other surfaces.
Monthly
You should perform a complete bedding change once a month for your hamster. Pick a time when your hamster is awake, and remove them from their habitat while you clean. Remove all of the components of your hamster’s home, and clean them with water or a hamster-safe cleaning solution. Dump or scoop out all of the bedding, and wash the bedding tray. Make sure everything is nice and dry before reassembling their habitat, complete with fresh bedding.
Hamster health checks
You’ll also want to do a health check on your hamster at least once a week. This quick check is to make note of any potential changes in your pet, and is best performed while you’re holding your hamster. Gently look at their face, feet, belly, and backside, and feel around for any lumps or bumps. If you notice anything amiss, contact your veterinarian to discuss your findings.
Omlet and your hamster
We’ve designed hamster products that make caring for your small pet fun and easy. With easy to clean, spacious hamster habitats, customisable hamster tubes, and fun ramps and platforms, your hamster will live their biggest lives with you able to observe them in their natural element. With a setup that makes it easy to care for your hamster, and elements that bring out the best in them, you’ll both be able to enjoy the bond between hamster and human.
Ahead of the launch of our new Hamster Habitat, we recruited a few willing participants to try it out at home. Now, after a few months of happy hamster keeping, our reviewers are ready to spill the bedding…
Thanks for talking to me today guys. Could you start by telling me your names, and how old you are?
Isobel: I’m Isobel. I’m six.
Charlotte: I’m Charlotte, I’m eight.
Kitty: I’m Kitty.
And how old are you, Kitty?
Kitty: Six.
From left to right: Isobel, Charlotte & Kitty – holding Rascal, their pet hamster.
Lovely. OK, so today we’re going to talk about… gerbils?
[In unison]: No!
Mice?
Isobel: No, hamsters!
Oh yes, silly me, hamsters. But why are we talking about hamsters?
Isobel: Well, because we have one.
Charlotte: We were chosen to do a review for Omlet.
Ohh, were you? So, wait, let’s start at the beginning. How long have you had your hamster?
Charlotte: Hmm, 5 months I think.
Mum: Was it April?
Charlotte: March.
Isobel: No, May!
Mum: I think Charlotte’s probably right.
Right so that’s 5 months. And what happened when you got your hamster?
Charlotte: Well, mummy and daddy gave it to us as a surprise, one day after school.
Isobel: Yes, it was one day after school.
And what were you reviewing?
Charlotte: We were reviewing the new Omlet cage.
Isobel: To see if it’s good or bad.
Good or bad? Interesting. But to review the cage, of course you needed the hamster…
Charlotte: Yep!
So, what’s your hamster called?
Isobel: Rascal!
Is Rascal a he or a she?
Isobel: A he.
Did you know that straightaway?
Charlotte: Well, mum told us. But we knew anyway because we thought he looked like a boy.
Isobel: I think he looks like a girl.
Kitty: Me too.
Isobel: It’s quite difficult to tell.
Yeah, I think you’re right there. Who chose the name?
Charlotte: Me! Because he’s always trying to escape! He shoots up the sofa and tries to go down the cracks. We call it his escape route.
Oh, he does sound like a bit of a rascal!
Charlotte: It’s fine, because daddy gets him straightaway.
Isobel: But Charlotte is the expert of holding him.
Right: Charlotte holding Rascal. Left: Isobel holding him.
How do you hold him?
Charlotte: You scoop him up.
You scoop him up? Like a dog poo?
Charlotte: No!
Isobel: Ewwww!
Kitty: No!
Sorry, just teasing.
Charlotte: You have to be definite about it.
Why’s that?
Charlotte: Because you have to be confident. So he feels safe and doesn’t run away.
Well, that makes sense. It sounds like you get him out of his cage and into his Playpen quite a bit? Why’s that?
Charlotte: So he doesn’t go untamed. If that’s the word.
That is the word! So you get him out and play with him so that he knows you?
Charlotte: Yes, so he knows us, and so he doesn’t go feral – is it feral?
Yes! Another good word!
Charlotte: Yeah, he’s not bitey and we don’t want him to start being bitey. But it’s probably nice for him to get out. So he doesn’t get bored.
Absolutely. So, what do you like best about having a hamster?
Charlotte: Getting to play with him!
Isobel: Yes, playing with him.
What games do you play?
Charlotte: We watch him running around in the Playpen and make up ways for him to go, and we start laughing. But not too loud. Because he has sensitive ears.
Ahh, so do you try to be gentle around him?
Charlotte: Yes, he’s only small.
Isobel: Like granny’s puppy.
Charlotte: Isobel, this is about hamsters. Not puppies!
Ha! It’s nice though that granny has a puppy. Do you think the puppy and the hamster would get on?
Charlotte: NO!!!
Isobel: No no no!
Kitty: No!
Sorry, I’m being silly.
[Sceptical looks]
Really, I apologise.
Charlotte: OK.
Where does Rascal live in the house?
Charlotte: We keep him in the living room.
Oh, OK, and does everyone go in the living room?
Isobel: Yes. Everybody. It’s a family room.
And mummy and daddy didn’t mind having the hamster home there?
Charlotte: That was their decision! I wanted him in my bedroom.
Isobel: I wanted a guinea pig or a rabbit. But we got a hamster.
Mum: Haha, you can leave that out!
No, we want the truth! But, now you have Rascal, would you swap him for a guinea pig or a rabbit?
Isobel: NO!
Charlotte: No, no no. Definitely not.
Kitty: No.
Charlotte: He’s so soft and tame.
So when you pick him up, what is it like?
Charlotte: He’s very soft. I make a bridge with my hands and he runs across them. But sometimes he’s too fast! But he’s so soft and so sweet.
What colour is he?
Charlotte: Goldy, blondish. With some white.
Rascal in his Omlet Hamster Habitat.
A bit like your sisters’ hair then?
Charlotte: Yes! A bit like that.
He sounds lovely.
Isobel: Yes, my hair is blonde and also long.
You’ve got lovely hair, all three of you.
Charlotte: Thank you.
Isobel: The thing with my hair is –
Charlotte: Isobel, stop going off topic!
Does Isobel often go off topic?
Charlotte: Yes. All the time.
Oh, me too, all the time, don’t worry about it.
Mum: Girls, please could you stop spinning on the chairs. It’s making me feel sick.
Charlotte: Now mummy’s gone off topic.
Haha. Ok. Why do you think hamsters make good pets?
Charlotte: Well, because we can have him after dinner.
What, like pudding? For dessert?
[Charlotte & Isobel in unison]: NO!
Kitty: Hahahaha
Charlotte: Nooo! As in we can play with him after dinner and he won’t be asleep!
Isobel: Yeah. Because we can play with him.
Ohhh, I see. So when do hamsters sleep? And when do they wake up?
Isobel: They wake up at night.
So the evening is like his morning?
Isobel: No, he’s normally still asleep. But we wake him up really carefully.
How do you do that?
Charlotte: Well, we lift off the top of his house, then we gently lift up the cardboard hides and some of his bedding. But dad has to help, to make sure we don’t scare him and that he’s happy.
How do you know he’s happy?
Charlotte: Well, he’s always in a good mood. Because he gets a lot of sleep.
Oh I fully get that.
Charlotte: Mummy. Stop eating the sweets. They’re supposed to be for us.
Mum: Sorry.
And what else does he do? Does he do lots of poops?
Charlotte: Yes, mainly in one or two places in his house. But not when we get him out.
Isobel: When we first got him, he did bite us once. But he doesn’t now. He never does.
It sounds like that’s because you’ve been really gentle, and given him lots of love and care, and learnt how to look after him properly.
Charlotte: Yes we are very careful with him.
Isobel: But I can’t hold him!
Is that because you’re a bit small and fidgety by any chance?
Isobel: Yes.
Charlotte: I’m the fidgety one!
Oh I’m fidgety too.
Mum: Girls, please sit still.
Sorry, I’m not helping. Oh I know something I wanted to ask: who cleans out his cage?
Charlotte: We help dad do it. Often we play with him while daddy gets the dirty bits out.
Oh, that’s a good arrangement.
Isobel: I help. And Kitty helps too.
Isobel, do you do double talking?
Isobel: I don’t even know what that is! What is double talking?
Charlotte: You talk for both of you.
Isobel: Oh yes.
Mum: Kitty, what do you want to say about Rascal?
Isobel: He sleeps all day. And we can’t see him at night. Because we’re in bed.
Mum: I said Kitty!
Kitty: Yep.
Charlotte: I’ve told you this Isobel, he’s nocturnal.
So, what do you think of the new cage, do you like it?
Charlotte: Yep I like it. It’s good.
Isobel: I like it too. It’s blue and orange. It looks nice.
Kitty: It’s called Omlet.
Ha!
Charlotte: Sometimes when we get him out he sneezes. And does little cleans of his face.
Oh, that is so sweet.
Charlotte: Mummy likes taking pictures and she says ‘Ahhhh he’s adorable!’ He gets up onto his hind legs and does this. With his front legs. [Does a very cute impression of a hamster washing its face with its paws.]
Oh, I love that! Great impersonation. So, would you say to other children that a hamster is a good pet?
Charlotte: Yes. Because they’re fun. They’re sweet. They’re soft. They’re everything. Well, except for the nocturnalism.
Yeah, except for the nocturnalism.
Mum: Why do you like him, Kitty?
Isobel: I love him!
Mum: You’re not Kitty.
Isobel: Hahaha.
Kitty: I like him because he’s so friendly.
Charlotte: He makes us laugh.
Kitty: Sometimes, when we get him out, he runs around and has fun and we have fun –
Charlotte: Yeah, we have fun with him.
Isobel: Charlotte! Kitty hasn’t finished!
Kitty: I have.
And do any of you ever talk to Rascal?
Charlotte: Daddy does. All the time.
Nice! And what does he eat? Rascal that is. Not Daddy.
Charlotte: Hamster food. But sometimes treats. Like apple. Or carrots. Or lettuce.
Have you ever seen his cheeks get all big?
Kitty: Well –
Charlotte: When –
Mum: Let Kitty speak!
Kitty: When he eats he gets lots and hides it in his cheeks.
Charlotte: I think they do it to save up food. But I don’t know how they do it!
He’s got stretchy pouches! Would you like to have stretchy pouches?
Charlotte: NO!
Isobel: Never ever ever ever ever ever.
Kitty: No no no.
Don’t worry. It won’t happen. And does he use his wheel?
Isobel: Yeah but it’s really, really quiet.
Kitty: It doesn’t squeak.
Charlotte: No, it doesn’t. It’s silent. All you hear is his little paws.
Brilliant. Did you tell them to say that?
Mum: No!
Charlotte: Oh, and he likes his sand bath.
Isobel: Yes, he likes going in there.
Why does he do that?
Charlotte: To keep clean.
Isobel: It’s important to keep him clean.
Charlotte: It polishes him. So he’s all shiny.
Kitty: Can we have the sweets now?
Absolutely. Girls, thank you so much. You’ve been so helpful. Time to get paid. You’ve earned it.
An Omlet designer starts every project with a question: what will bring us closer to our pets? Then, we break that question down into many more. How do hamsters live in the wild? What makes a perfect hamster and human moment? What challenges do hamsters present as pets? These are a few of the questions we asked when we set out to create our new Hamster Habitat.
We found a perception of hamsters as “starter pets”; one you begin with in preparation for a more challenging one. We thought these intelligent, diligent little creatures deserved better, so we set out to change that perception, and show how a hamster can enrich your life, and you can enrich theirs.
DO THE GROUNDWORK
We began our research by growing our team of office hamsters and gerbils, and bought the most recommended cages on the market, and studied how our tiny pet team behaved in them night and day. We talked to pet owners and vets, read community forums, books and blogs. We clocked up hours on YouTube and TikTok, absorbing everything we could from the shared experiences of humans and hamsters everywhere.
We landed on key principles for hamster happiness born out both by widespread agreement – and our own observations.
HAMSTER TELLS
So what can indicate how a hamster is faring in a new environment? They’re small, they’re nocturnal and they hide, so it’s not always straightforward.
“There are behaviours you can watch for; bar gnawing is common. Then there’s monkey barring, when they climb up and around the metal of their cage, indicating they don’t have enough space to roam. Hamsters do chew, and they do climb, so some climbing and gnawing isn’t necessarily a sign of stress – but if it’s constant then it indicates they don’t have enough space or enrichment.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
BIGGER IS BETTER
Among our findings, space was a big one.
“They like continuous floor space. We used heat mapping and our night cameras, and were able to see that they use and reuse the same pathways, using horizontal and diagonal space consistently.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
THINK DEEP
Depth was just as important as area.
“They like to burrow underground, so having a bedding tray that lets them use that vertical space is essential.”
Finn, Product Engineer
IN THE ZONE
What was interesting though, was how they used their space.
“A bit like us, hamsters tend to have areas for different uses. A larder. A toilet. A bedroom. They basically build little rooms.”
Jack, Senior Product Engineer
RUNNING MACHINES
One hamster hobby was crowned the clear winner.
“They love to run. They can run for miles and miles every night. A good wheel is really important.”
Sophie, Design Intern
SEEN AND NOT HEARD
A large obstacle standing in the way of human and hamster cohabiting happiness was the cage itself – even spacious ones that seemingly met hamsters’ needs.
“The problem with a lot of hamster cages is that they’re noisy. They rattle, the wheels squeak. And they’re ugly. Some are garish, some just look like big boxes with lots of metal. And that means the hamster often ends up somewhere out of the way – out of sight, out of mind.
We set the goal of making ours beautiful and silent so that the hamster could live in any room in the house, and be present and part of the family, which encourages interaction.”
Jack, Senior Product Engineer
ENRICHMENT IS EVERYTHING
As our research confirmed theories, we focussed increasingly on enrichment as key. Josh, our lead designer on the project, sums it up like this:
“If we take cats and dogs as an example, their natural habitats aren’t living rooms and kitchens. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t suited to or happy in them. By living alongside them, we’ve created ways to enrich their lives. Part of that is the bond we share with them, and part is the activities we do with them for fun and exercise.
We approached hamster care in the same way. We set out to design a complete system to make time together more instinctive and fun, and to provide plenty of opportunity for hamsters to meet their needs on their own terms too.
We looked at other products on the market, and whilst many came with accessories, a lot of these were cheap and unfit for purpose. So even if the house itself was popular, the owners would often reference the extra bits that came with it going straight to landfill. So the wheel often is small and squeaky. You get tiny plastic hides. We wanted to do it differently. We wanted to make sure anything we included had a real purpose, and worked for hamsters and humans.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
IN A SPIN
The wheel was really important from the get go, because our observations had shown us just how much time our hamsters and gerbils spent on it. But it had to be fit for purpose.
“If you are going to provide a wheel, you have to make sure it’s big enough for the bigger breeds to fully extend their backs and run in a flat position, rather than arched, which can damage their spines. But it should also be lightweight enough for the smaller breeds to maneuver easily.
Then from a human point of view, we had to make sure it was quiet, because the feedback we found is that wheels squeak, and that’s a real deterrent for people when it comes to having a hamster.
We put ball bearings in, which helps the wheel run really smoothly. We remade the whole thing at one point, because we weren’t satisfied with the central bearing. As well as decibel meter testing, we took it home and tested it out in our own bedrooms – it really is silent!”
Jack, Senior Product Engineer
CHAMBER OF SECRETS
“Initially, we tried making accessories that couldn’t be chewed. But we soon switched tactics, because hamsters and gerbils will chew, it’s something they do. So we looked at natural materials.
We made wood pulp Chamber Hides, which can be chewed. They’re biodegradable, they can be replaced without costing the earth. They simulate hamster habitats in the wild, which have multiple chambers. Bedding material is great for digging but it’s not good for forming hides, as it collapses. The idea with our Chamber Hides is that you put them under or on top of the bedding and they hold the structure, so they can dig and tunnel between smaller areas, as they would naturally.”
Sophie, Design Intern
RAMP UP THE FUN
“We also looked at ways to add variation to the space, and designed platforms and ramps you can add, which give them more areas to use. So you can create mezzanines anywhere on the mesh. And we made a nice attachment method so they’re really easy to clip on, and secure for the hamster when using them.“
Finn, Product Engineer
TIME TO SPILL
Making our Hamster Habitat deep enough for burrowing was easy enough, but it threw up a new problem – bedding spill. Hamster owners may be familiar with the frustration of waking up to discover lovingly loaded bedding deposited not so lovingly all over the floor.
“When they burrow, the bedding material just gets kicked out. We experienced this – we would come in in the morning to find bedding everywhere. It’s a mess, it’s wasteful, and it’s annoying!
Consequently, people often don’t fully fill the bedding trays – but hamsters need that depth. So we wanted to find a design solution to prevent the spillage. We came up with the fender. It lets you fill the tray all the way up, and prevents spillage. But it also lets you fill it even higher if you want to.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
The bedding fender gave another benefit – it made interaction and cleaning easier too.
“You can lift the whole mesh top off, but the bedding fender stays put. This is actually really helpful, because when you lift the top off to interact with your hamster, move things around or spot clean, the fender keeps the tray enclosed, so the hamster can’t escape.”
Sophie, Design Intern
LAYER upon layer
We now had three parts that made up the whole – the bedding tray, the fender and the mesh top. But we had to make sure the three parts wouldn’t rattle and would fit together perfectly, which posed a fresh set of problems.
“We made hundreds of prototypes; we began with cardboard, wood, and 3d printing. As it’s a large product, we would print off one area at a time, like a corner, so we could look at that in really small detail. Testing and refining helped us get each bit right.
We work really closely with our suppliers too. When you’re making parts like this, you’ll naturally get some discrepancy in measurements. There is always some slight movement, which is part of the process – it’s inevitable – but it means measurements can’t be 100% precise. This discrepancy is called the tolerance range.
What you can do is control that tolerance range as tightly as possible, which comes down to collaboration with our manufacturing team – because it’s diligence and attention to detail that ensures deviation between each part is minimal. And that comes down to relationships. So we work very closely with our suppliers to get the tolerance range really tight.
Another measure we took to ensure the three sections fitted tightly together was to add chamfers, which are essentially lead-ins, onto each section. These give an angle, which guides each piece as you slide it into place, so it sits snugly exactly where you want it, supporting it. Because one little edge in the wrong place can cause a real wobble, and one wobble can make a lot of noise.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
A STRAPPING DESIGN
As well as needing the three sections of the habitat to fit together securely, it had to be quick and easy to lift each bit off. Because otherwise, it would make cleaning and interacting with the hamster time consuming and fiddly.
“This is where the bungees really come into their own. We found all the cages had horrible metal or plastic clips, that were tricky and time consuming to undo, or failed quickly. So we thought, how can we do this better? And we came up with bungees. They’re much easier to use – really effective and they look better. And, they’re easy for humans to undo – it’s one smooth motion but it holds everything securely.”
Finn, Product Engineer
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
With hamsters, best practice is regular spot cleaning to remove soiled bedding, with less frequent deep cleans that disturb all your pets’ hard work creating pathways and dens in their bedding. With easy clean being a hallmark of Omlet design, our Hamster Habitat would have to be faff free for both.
“As well as being able to undo the bungees and lift the mesh top off, there is one big wide door at the front. We made sure everything we designed fitted through that. You can fit your arm in for quick jobs. So you have options. We also made sure there were no corners or crevices for dirt to build up – the curved plastic tray can be emptied and wiped clean in no time.”
Sophie, Design Intern
TAKING A STAND
If our Hamster Habitat was to truly integrate into people’s homes, we had to consider where it would sit – or what it would sit on.
“We had a concept of a tray that drops into a stand – so you don’t have to get the stand, but you can add it later. We spent months and months tweaking to get it right. We have pages of sketches for the diameter of the leg for example, increasing it by tiny increments to see what looked best.
We applied that process to every element, considering the whole, stand and habitat combined, as a piece of furniture, which could appeal to children but also adults. We wanted it to have a playfulness, but not be childish.
Victoria (Omlet’s Textile Designer) was really helpful and worked with us on form and colourways based on interior design. We didn’t need to break the mould – but we could question it and play with it to improve it. So we added curves, which look great but have a functionality of making the corners easy to wipe clean. The curves also give it the recognisable Omlet design blueprint.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
ALL SYSTEMS GO
Our idea of a complete system designed to encourage interaction had one more important component: a playpen, which would have to be safe for hamsters and practical for humans.
“We engineered hinges that click into place so the Playpen folds away flat for easy storage and pops up in seconds, creating a sturdy structure. Smooth sides which couldn’t be gnawed or climbed and a floor protector completed the function. We made two sizes, with the larger one big enough for owners to get in there with their hamster.
We wanted it to have the same visual style as the Habitat, to feel like a product family. Victoria developed a surface design, which mimics the maze-like running and tunneling that hamsters do. This is similar to the way she approaches the dog bed prints, where she will often take a movement or action then design a graphic print inspired by it.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
GRAHAM THE GUINEA PIG
“Graham’s one of the first ever residents of our new Hamster Habitat. He’s head of the hamster design squad.”
Freya, Omlet Community Manager (and Graham’s primary carer)
With over 10,000 hours over four years in the workshop, we think our Hamster Habitat is packed with enrichment and has every potential for hamster happiness – but you needn’t take our word for it. Endless night cam footage confirms that Graham loves it. The Omlet cats spend hours watching him through the bedding fender, but Graham’s unfazed – he knows they’re not getting in. The bungee straps are a stretch too far for even the most dexterous paws.
“As for the cats… Let’s just say they’ve been very interested! But they’ve had no chance. It’s not going to knock or tip over, we’ve tested that. We’ve done everything we possibly can. Along the way, we’ve got to know Graham – his habits, his personality – and how much caring for a hamster can bring to your day. That’s been the biggest learning of all.”
Thinking about getting a hamster? Or already have one? Join us in celebrating all the best things about having a hamster! These loveable bundles of nocturnal energy pull at our heartstrings with their amusing antics and pint-sized proportions. So whether you’re looking to add a hamster to your family, or are a seasoned hamster owner, here are the greatest things about owning these pocket pets.
Small size, big personalities
If you’ve ever come face-to-face with a hamster, you know firsthand how small they are. But if you’ve spent any amount of time with a hamster during their waking hours, you’ll quickly learn that they are quirky and animated animals. Like other rodents, hamsters are smart and curious, and each have their own unique personalities. From sweet and meek, to boisterous and outgoing, and everything in between, you’re sure to find a hamster that suits your own personality.
Some hamsters are runners, while others prefer climbing their hideouts, ramps, or through tubes. Some hamsters prefer lounging in their food bowls, passed out after a midday snack, but others are dedicated to their sleep, hiding away peacefully all day until evening when they emerge for their waking hours. When hamsters do wake, you’ll likely witness a dramatic stretching display, complete with a wide yawn that prominently displays their long, yellow-orange incisors. This reach, stretch, and yawn routine makes for great photo-ops, so be sure to have a camera nearby.
Adorable cheek pouches
Chipmunks aren’t the only animals known for their expandable cheeks. All hamsters have cheek pouches that they use in practical, but amusing ways. In the wild, hamsters use these cheek pouches to transfer food and bedding to their burrows, much like we use shopping bags or purses. Once they’ve reached their destination, they’ll “unpack” their cheeks and stuff their treasures for future use.
Our pet hamsters have held onto this habit. In fact, the word “hamster” comes from the German word “hamstern”, which means “hoarder.” If you watch your hoarding pet hard at work, you’ll see them fast and furiously stuffing their pouches with food, carrying it off to their burrowing spot of choice. They’ll then deposit their grocery haul to save for a midnight snack – or perhaps as a present for you to find the next time you clean their enclosure.
Nighttime play sessions
Are you a night owl by nature? Then you’ll be in good company with a hamster. Since hamsters are nocturnal, they will sleep all day and be awake the majority of the night. This makes them perfect pets for students or pet parents that work a typical 9-5 schedule. By the time you get home and unwind for the day, your hamster will be ready to play.
You can expect your hamster to be ready for action once the sun goes down, and they’ll be ready to party all night long. So, if you prefer staying up late as opposed to early mornings, you can put in some quality time with your pocket pet. Create a maze for your hamster, watch them run around their playpen, or munch on a midnight snack of fresh veggies together.
Quiet companions
Hamsters can make small squeaking noises, but for the most part, are relatively quiet pets. The majority of the noise they make is from their habitat: a spinning exercise wheel, scratching of claws on the bottom of their bedding tray, or scurrying through tunnels. All of these sounds may wake light sleepers, so it is recommended to house hamsters in rooms that aren’t occupied overnight.
During the day your hamster will be sleeping and totally silent. You can occasionally catch them venturing out for a snack or a sip of water, only to retreat back to their den for some much needed rest and relaxation. Their quiet presence is perfect for home offices, living rooms, or other spaces that may host a variety of daytime activities.
Easily entertained
Hamsters can find fun in just about any situation, which is part of what makes them so loveable. Homemade toys or tunnels and mazes made from cardboard boxes and paper tubes are instant playground materials for your hamster. Or, give them a simple exercise wheel, and they’ll entertain themselves for hours. Other toys like hamster chews, gnaws, or playpens all make for exciting (supervised) playtime sessions.
You’ll be amazed by how easily your hamsters are able to entertain you too. Even if you aren’t actively handling your hamster, you can observe their amazing acrobatic feats inside of their tunnels, adorable cheek-stuffing antics, and their charismatic personalities on display.
Low maintenance
When compared to other pets, it really doesn’t take much to maintain hamsters and their habitats. Weekly cage cleaning and daily feeding and watering if needed are the basic requirements of caring for your hamster. Of course you can spend more time than this with your hamster, whether by playing with and handling them, or through rearranging their setup or giving it a deep cleaning.
Playing with your hamster can be as complex or simple as you’d like – either way, your hamster will just be happy to spend time with you. Some hamsters enjoy sitting in their owner’s shirt pockets or being held during movie time, while others may prefer to roam around in their playpen or other safe space. Whatever activity you and your hamster find to do together, it will be a bonding experience.
Omlet and your hamster
Hamsters make amazing pets. They’re fun to play with, care for, and learn from. And when you house them in hamster habitats that make it easy to interact with them, the connection between owner and pet becomes natural.
Hamsters don’t appreciate the warmer weather as much as we do. Whilst great family pets, something these small pets aren’t so good at is regulating their body temperature, making them highly sensitive to changes in weather. But with a few tips and tricks, you can learn how to beat the heat this summer with these tips on how to cool down a hamster.
Too hot for hammy to handle?
Hamsters originate from all over the world, but mainly in European and Asian grasslands and deserts. The diverse habitat of their environment means that extreme fluctuations in temperature are not uncommon for hamsters in the wild. Despite this, domesticated hamsters are not accustomed to such climates. In fact, they actually live comfortably at a temperature consistently between 18 – 75°C. When temperatures rise above this, the effects can, at worst, be fatal.
Unlike us, hamsters are unable to sweat or pant to cool themselves down. In the wild, hamsters are naturally shielded from direct sunlight when they burrow. But, as domesticated pets, they need the help of their owners to stay safe. Fortunately, it’s easy to keep them cool with the correct setup.
Signs of hamster heat stroke
It’s important not to wait until your hamster is already showing signs of distress to take measures. But, should you find your hamster in an unexpected situation when temperatures rise rapidly, watch out for the following signs of heat stroke:
Constant thirst
Open mouth breathing
Loss of coordination
Loss of appetite
Drooling
Running in circles
Collapse
If your hamster is showing any of these symptoms or you have any concerns about heat stroke, contact your vet immediately.
6 tips for keeping your hamster cool
Prevention beats cure every time, so taking these steps will ensure a summer of safety for your furry friend.
Avoid sunlight
You might enjoy basking in the sun, but your hamster won’t. Choose a location for their cage that’s out of direct sunlight to keep them as cool as possible. You should also avoid any areas close to fireplaces or radiators. Omlet’s Qute hamster cage is ideal for your hamster’s summer setup, with optional wheels to make relocating easier than ever. For more information on where to put your hamster’s cage, read our hamster guide.
Fan their cage
Now that you’ve picked the perfect spot for your hamster’s cage, keep temperatures cooler with a fan for those especially hot days. Never place a fan directly on a hamster as this will cause them stress and for temperatures to drop too low. Don’t forget – a temperature between 18 – 24°C is ideal. Instead, keep an electric fan at a distance, simply pointing it in the direction of the cage to circulate cool air around the room.
Summer snacking
Nothing beats a refreshing treat to cool down over the summer. Your hamster will appreciate a refreshing snack in the warmer weather too. Try freezing a few of their favourite fruits and veg – think of it as a hamster ice pop! A few popular options include watermelon, carrot and pear but this isn’t an exhaustive list. Find a few more suggestions on our hamster food list.
Frozen accessories
If temperatures get too high, use a frozen towel for your hamster to keep cool. Simply wet a towel and place it in the freezer for a few hours. Wait until the towel gets cold before removing and draping over your hamster’s cage. To ensure you don’t block any airflow, only cover half of the cage with a towel if you try this.
If you have a Qute cage, your hamsters will benefit from the draft-free ventilation system. Designed to keep hamsters cool in summer and warm in winter, the cage has been crafted with your hamster’s safety at the forefront.
Limit playtime
It might not sound like too fun of a tip, but it’ll keep your hamster safe. Hamsters love to play – it’s great for physical and mental stimulation, as well as creating a bond between pet and owner. But, handling your hamster too much can quickly increase their body temperature, making them uncomfortable. Using frozen treats, however, is a great alternative to keep them mentally stimulated during this short period of time when playtime may have to be cut short.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is key! Hamsters should always be provided with fresh water throughout the year but it’s especially important to keep their supply topped up in summer. During this season, just like us, you’ll find that hamsters drink a little more than usual to stay cool. On average, they’ll drink 0.33 fl oz per 3.5 ounces of hamster. If you do notice this amount increase excessively, though, they could be dehydrated.
Omlet and your hamster
Omlet supports the needs of pets all year round. From the scorching summer to the freezing winter, our ingenious products have been designed to keep your furry and feathered friends happy and healthy. Shop hamster cages and hamster cage accessories to build your hamster’s perfect setup and a wondrous connection with your pet.
Hamsters may be small, but they have large personalities packed into their pint-sized bodies. Since they’re easy to take care of, they’re great pets for owners of all ages. And, when provided with the right habitat, hamsters will delight their owners by displaying their intelligent and vibrant personalities. In this blog we explore hamster personalities and their unique characteristics that make them a great small pet to have.
How are hamster personalities determined?
Just like other pets, different attributes play into how your hamster may behave. While personalities are unique to each hamster, some aspects that may determine how they act include:
Gender
Breed
Age
The following factors will help you decide which hamster may mesh best with your family.
Male vs female hamster personalities
There are some key differences to consider when weighing if you should get a male or female hamster. Both can make great pets, but it’s important to take note of how their respective genders may affect their personalities.
Male hamster personalities
Males are generally larger than females and may grow longer, more dense coats that may require grooming. They’re also typically more outgoing and tolerant of being handled. Male hamsters can be territorial, but are typically not as defensive of their space as females. On the whole, male hamsters are known for being easygoing and more playful than females.
Female hamster personalities
Females are usually smaller than males and have a reproductive cycle that will affect their demeanour. A female hamster will go into heat every 4 or 5 days, and may act moody during this time. Female hamsters in heat may become aggressive to their owners or cage mates, sleep more, and be less tolerant of being handled. In addition to being temperamental, they also emit a musky odour during their heat cycle that may be off-putting to their owners. Females are more prone to being territorial of their space with both humans and other hamsters.
5 hamster breed personalities
Like gender, the hamster breeds you choose will influence their personality. Did you know that there are over 20 types of hamsters in the world? Many of these are wild species that have not been domesticated, like the Mongolian hamster, Turkish hamster, and the European hamster.
Only some breeds are kept as pets due to their human-friendly temperaments and tolerance of being handled. And, among these, some breeds are known for being more easygoing than others – so be sure to consider their breed carefully before bringing your hamster home.
Syrian hamsters
Syrian hamsters are also known as “golden” or “teddy bear” hamsters. This breed is larger than the rest on our list, but is known to be the most friendly toward humans. They are laid back, easy to tame, and warm up to their owners quickly, displaying social behaviours with them. However, they prefer a life of solitude (even in the wild), and do not do well housed with other hamsters.
Hand-feeding your hamster will help build a bond quickly, and before long your Syrian hamster will look forward to your daily visits. They’re also great companions for small children, as their size makes them easier to handle.
Russian dwarf hamster
These small, curious creatures thrive in small groups in the wild. For this reason, it’s best to keep at least two, if not more, to recreate this social structure. No more than 2 males should be kept together, however – otherwise they may become territorial. Several females can cohabitate nicely.
Because they bond with their peers, it may be slightly more difficult to bond with this breed. Due to their size, they may be more timid at first, but will warm up to humans faster if they are hand-fed.
Chinese dwarf hamster
Also known as “striped” hamsters, this breed likes to live a life of solitude much like its cousin the Syrian hamster. This small breed is fast, but slower to warm up to their owners at first. Shy in nature, the Chinese dwarf hamster takes patience to tame.
They can be tamed with daily handling and hand-feeding sessions. Chinese dwarf hamsters are prone to biting when frightened, so it’s best to go slow and avoid sudden movements or loud noises while working with your pet. With enough time and commitment, they too can grow accustomed to being handled by their owners.
Roborovski dwarf hamster
Also known as “robo” hamsters, this little breed is the smallest and most active of domesticated hamsters. They’re so active in fact, that they have been known to run the equivalent of four human marathon races – every night. Being the “hummingbirds” of hamsters, they are very fast and may be difficult to catch and handle. They also prefer to live in same-sex social groups.
When active, robo hamsters make more noise than other breeds, and will exercise all night long in their cages. Because of their high energy, they aren’t a laid-back, cuddly breed, and are not suitable for young children.
Campbell Russian dwarf hamster
This breed prefers living in pairs, but may successfully be kept in a social group. And while they may resemble the Russian dwarf hamster in appearance, the resemblance stops there. They’re actually known to be very territorial and temperamental.
This breed is not a good choice for children, or for those wanting to handle their hamsters regularly. Campbell Russian dwarf hamsters have earned a reputation for being biters – sometimes latching onto a finger of their owners. While each hamster is their own unique self, caution should be taken when considering this breed.
Omlet and your hamsters
Hamsters are great starter pets for children, or as an addition to a family with other pets. At Omlet, we are experts when it comes to pet care, we offer helpful blogs and guides that can be referred to when needed the most. You can ensure that your hamster will be happy, healthy and lead a fulfilling life with Omlet by your side.
Thinking about adding a hamster to your family? Hamsters make for fun little friends that are easy to take care of and interact with. But, as with owning any pet, there are some dos and don’ts of caring for hamsters.
Hamsters are an excellent choice for first-time animal caretakers – especially children. They’re low maintenance but still teach responsibility. With the right setup, your child will be able to care for their hamster and enjoy the bond forged through pet ownership.
Hamsters and children
Hamsters are members of the rodent family, but unlike most rodents, they don’t have a noticeable tail. They’re nocturnal by nature, but are very lively and entertaining while they’re awake. Their compact bodies make them easy for children to handle, and they don’t require extensive care.
Many things about hamsters make them a perfect first pet for children, but hamsters should be respected and handled appropriately to avoid injury. Supervising your child with their hamster is always a good idea.
Teaching your child how to take care of their hamster is a great learning experience. Pets like hamsters teach responsibility, love, and commitment. To make sure everyone is happy and having fun, we’ve outlined the most important “dos” and “don’ts” of hamster care.
The dos
The needs of hamsters can be easily met, so long as these hamster care “dos” are considered.
Do make sure that everyone respects hamster’s boundaries
As members of the rodent family, hamsters can be skittish by nature. Each hamster has their own personality, but be prepared to take some time to bond with your hamster. Like most pets, hamsters give clues as to how they’re feeling based on how they look and act. Understanding your hamster’s body language is important for knowing when your hamster is ready to play, or when they’re trying to tell you they’d rather not be handled.
Do get creative with playtime
When your hamster is ready to play, they’ll appreciate variety outside of their cage. And putting a fun environment together for your hamster is an excellent opportunity to showcase your creativity too. Get some hamster toys for your little friend to enjoy during playtime, or make a hamster maze from repurposed household items. Watch your hamster interact with their toys, pick their way through their custom maze, and bask in your praise for a job well done.
Do provide a safe space for your hamster
Hamsters are crafty and resourceful, and are known for being escape artists. While they crave time outside of their cage, they should always be watched closely. Make sure their playspace is surrounded by an appropriate playpen that they can’t escape from. But, if your hamster happens to get away from you, there are ways to find a hamster in your home.
The Qute Hamster Cage by Omlet is designed to keep hamsters safely inside. Not only that, but its stylish design is meant to complement any decorating style – making your hamster’s enclosure fit right in with the rest of your house. Your hamster can be artfully displayed in your living areas as a valued part of the family, instead of being limited to an out-of-sight corner of your home.
The Qute Hamster Cage is interactive, but you’ll still want to provide your hamster with plenty of playtime outside of their enclosure. Playing with your hamster gives them valuable mental and physical exercise, and strengthens the bond between both of you. Just remember when, how, and where to play with your hamster:
When
Your hamster’s ready to play when they are awake and active, usually at night.
How
Always handle your hamster gently so they don’t get startled, and provide creative outlets for playtime through toys or homemade elements.
Where
Create a safe area that your hamster can’t escape from or injure themselves in.
Do regularly clean your hamster’s cage
One of the most important tasks when taking care of your hamster is to clean their cage regularly. Hamsters like to burrow down in their bedding when they sleep, and soiled bedding can cause respiratory problems when nesting. Your hamster will keep themselves clean, but it’s up to you to keep their home fresh and clean.
The Qute Hamster Cage is easy for kids to keep clean, taking only a few minutes. Depending on the bedding you use, cleaning your hamster’s cage at least once a week is all that’s needed to keep their home hygienic. Daily spot cleanings around eating, drinking, and play areas will also freshen up their space.
The don’ts
Help your hamster live their best life and enjoy your time with them to the fullest by keeping in mind these hamster care “don’ts.”
Don’t feed them a poor diet
Your hamster relies on you to supply their food and water. Choosing a quality diet is important to keeping your furry friend fit and healthy. The majority of their diet should consist of pellets formulated for hamsters. These pellets are usually mixed with seeds and have all the nutrients your hamster needs.
Hamsters also benefit from some fresh food offerings. Good choices include:
Leafy greens such as kale, romaine lettuce, or dandelion greens
Cucumber
Small pieces of carrot
Broccoli
As a general rule, your hamster’s diet should consist of 75% pellets and seeds, 20% fresh foods, and 5% treats. Fresh fruit would be considered a treat, as would commercially bought hamster treats. Be sure not to overdo it on the sweets – hamsters can quickly become overweight if fed too many treats.
Don’t wake a sleeping hamster
Don’t force your hamster to play if they aren’t ready. They’re nocturnal, so they will sleep most of the day and be ready to play after night falls. And remember: never wake your hamster up from a nap to play! Your child will need to learn patience when waiting to play with their nocturnal pet.
Sometimes circumstances require your hamster to be roused from their napping. Vet visits, cage cleanings, or other events may have you waking your hamster up from its slumber. Be sure to wake your hamster up the right way to avoid startling them.
Don’t keep hamsters of the opposite sex
In general, hamsters do best as single occupants of their cage. Most types of hamsters are territorial and do not appreciate having to share a space with others. There are some exceptions, as certain types of hamsters enjoy the companionship of others. If you have a type of hamster that lives best in pairs or groups, you’ll want to be sure that you keep all of the same sex together. Accidental “pups” (baby hamsters) can occur frequently if male and female hamsters are housed together.
Don’t use poor-quality bedding
Hamsters burrow as part of their natural behaviour. They do it for fun, to find a good place to sleep, and to explore their surroundings. High-quality bedding is essential to keeping your hamster healthy.
Don’t use wood-based shavings for your hamster’s bedding, unless it is 100% aspen. Other types of wood shavings can be toxic to your hamster. Wood shavings are still not the most ideal choice, as they are not soft and can stick to the coats of long-haired hamsters.
Aim for dust-free, soft bedding like paper. Not your average shredded paper, these types of bedding are soft and fluffy and almost resemble shredded cotton balls. This type of bedding is perfect for nesting, burrowing, and digging.
Omlet and your hamster
Omlet wants your child to have the best relationship and experience with their hamster as possible. Our Qute Hamster Cage was designed with young pet owners in mind to give them the unique opportunity to take care of their hamsters on their own. And, the contemporary and chic design makes the Qute a cage you’re not afraid to display in any part of your home. Truly a hamster home within your home, the Qute Hamster Cage by Omlet has everything you, your child, and your hamster could ever want.
Waking up a hamster is not always recommended, though there are certain ways you can do this to ease them out of their naptime. Considering they sleep mostly during the day, disturbing them to clean their cage or feed them is often inevitable. We look at how to wake up a hamster, in the politest way possible.
Many people believe that hamsters are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active throughout the night and tend to sleep during the day. However, this is not quite the case. A hamster’s sleep pattern tends to be slightly different. They are classed as crepuscular mammals, meaning that they are most active at dusk and dawn.
It is important to understand how your hamster sleeps to ensure that you have a healthy and happy little friend. You should also know when to leave them alone because even though they are cute you would not want a hamster in a huff!
How to wake up a hamster
It may be disappointing to find your hamster fast asleep during the day when you want to play, but a hamster has its own routine, and although this can be adapted slightly, this is something you will have to accept.
You can always compromise and alter your daily patterns to suit your hamster, by waking a bit earlier or not going to bed until later at night. This might not be a solution for small children however, as that could result in other problems!
If you ever need to wake your hamster up, it’s important you know how to do this in the right way. As prey animals, they want to feel safe, and they are used to hiding in the wild. This is why their sleep pattern has evolved over time so that they are more active at night when other predators might be on the hunt! It’s exhausting being so small, which is why hamsters are sleepy little animals and their sleep is so important. So when a hamster wakes, they need to be treated quite delicately so they can adjust as naturally as possible.
Move slowly
You want to wake up your hamster without scaring the poor thing and jumping out on them loudly and quickly is certainly the wrong way to go about it. Slow down your approach, especially if there are excited children ready to play. Don’t rush to wake them up as they could be in a deep sleep, and will not appreciate being woken up suddenly.
Adjust their environment
A hamster’s sleep schedule means they begin to stir from their slumber at dusk and dawn, or during low-light hours. So you might be able to gently wake your hamster by adjusting the lights and dimming them in the room. By making the room dark enough, your hamster should respond to the change in light.
Hamsters sleep more in colder temperatures. Warming up the vicinity of yourhamster’s cage acts as a gentle alarm clock allowing your hamster to wake up in a cosy environment. No one likes waking up in a cold house, and that includes hamsters!!
Offer them a treat
Sometimes the allure of cooking smells coming from the kitchen will wake even the heaviest of human sleepers, and when you do wake up after a nap you might feel a little peckish. The tempting smell of some yummyhamster food can do the same with your hamster!
Hold a littletasty hamster treat close to their nose and the delicious smell could stir them from their siesta. Make sure you don’t hold it too close, as this could scare them but they could grab the treat and scurry away to nibble on it alone. If that doesn’t work you could tempt them with some fresh food or give the food bowl a little shake. That’s certainly one almost guaranteed way to wake your hamster.
Talk softly or humorously
Do you “coo” and make silly noises around a baby? Hard not to really! Hamsters respond to gentle noises and soft voices. Making funny sounds or humming a calm tune will alert them to your presence as they will recognise the sound of your voice. They might be small but they are incredibly observant and clever little creatures.
Gently blow on your hamster
This may sound a little silly, but it can work and it doesn’t cause little hammy the hamster any harm. In fact, they may quite like it. If your hamster is sleeping out in the open in their hamster cage and is within reach, you could lightly blow on them. Think of a soft delicate summer breeze rather than a gale-force wind! Remember your size in comparison to your hamster!
What not to do when waking up your hamster
The most important thing to remember when it comes to disturbing your hamster’s sleep schedule is that you need to be considerate. There are definitely ways you could bother your hamster that would be deemed inconsiderate so here are a few things to avoid!
Be loud
As prey animals, hamsters are constantly on alert, and could get easily stressed. Even if a hamster is awake or just relaxing it’s still a good idea to be gentle and play nice, after all, they are only small, and our size and volume could be somewhat intimidating! Loud noises, in general, will be very unpleasant, whether it’s playing loud music, shouting across the room or just raising your voice a bit. Hamsters have very sensitive ears.
Shake their cage
This is a definite no-no, a hamster’s cage is a safe place. They can snuggle up in their cosy nests and hide away from everything around them, or play peacefully in their comfortable habitat. TheQute Hamster cage offers an innovative design where you can see into the clear bedding tray. This way you can see where little hammy is and you can certainly avoid shaking the cage to see where they are or to wake them up!
Make them jump
Hamsters are delicate mini mammals and it doesn’t take much to scare them. Creeping up on them and making them jump will only stress them out. So, try not to startle your hamster and be conscious of your own behaviour around them, considering how sensitive they are.
If you are concerned that your hamster is unhappy then it is a good idea to try to learn a bit more about theBody Language of a Hamster. Like all pets, if things become a little unsettled and they feel stressed this could result in behavioural issues and a lack of trust towards their human families.
Picking them up
If you haven’t already startled your hamster and they are still fast asleep then it is certainly not recommended to attempt to pick up or poke them to make them wake up. There is no gentle way to do that! Be warned, hamsters do have very sharp teeth and they could bite if they feel threatened. After all, you are trespassing on their territory!
Fast or sudden movements
Avoid quick and sharp and sudden movements, this will startle the little one and could be quite distressing. Hamster’s natural instincts are pretty sharp so they will see this sudden movement as a threat.
What time should a hamster wake up?
Hamsters follow their natural sleep pattern, and whilst they can adapt to a slightly different routine it will never completely change to suit you (it will most likely need to be the other way around!). They will always stir during those low light hours, and while we can interfere with that slightly by warming up the room or altering the lights, you will only be able to change the schedule by an hour or two.
A hamster’s sleep will also depend on the species, as different varieties have distinct sleep schedules and needs. Hamsters usually sleep for about 12-14 hours a day, but they have polyphasic sleep-wake patterns. This means they sleep on and off throughout the day rather than one continuous sleep cycle.
One way to keep an eye on your hamster’s sleep pattern is to keep a diary and track their schedule. Spend a few days writing down precisely when they are asleep and awake. Follow this by feeding them at the same time each day. Over time you can alter the feeding time by a few minutes, which will ultimately affect when they wake.
Is it bad if my hamster sleeps at night?
There could be a number of reasons why your hamster sleeps at night, a couple of reasons may be that they are hibernating or could be sick. The age of your hamster will also affect how much they sleep. Stress and depression can also be factors, or they may have been overstimulated during the day when they should have been sleeping. Just like a small child, if they are overtired they will struggle sleeping because the routine has been altered.
Hibernation can occur if your hamster is housed in a cold environment that drops below 10 degrees celsius. If you don’t live in a cold environment but notice that your hamster is sleeping more often than not then check the temperature to make sure there isn’t a draft anywhere that could be causing a drop in temperature.
Otherwise, respiratory and digestive issues can be common in hamsters so if they are more lethargic than normal then it would be a good idea to take them to a vet to check and make sure they are okay.
Conclusion
Hamsters are very common pets for small children and so it’s imperative to learn about your hamster’s personality and behaviour. This way you can make sure they are happy so that you can keep them and your children safe.
Key points to take away from this:
Avoid waking your hamster unless it’s done properly
If you notice increased sleeping at night they could be sick or unhappy
The location of the hamster cage is important – place the cage in a darker corner of the room so they can sleep during the day
Wake up your hamster slowly and calmly
No sudden movements, cage shaking or shouting!
Sleeping 12-14 hours a day is normal, that’s the sleep they need
It’s always worth thinking about how you would like to be woken up. Unlikely it would be by an enormous person running towards you shouting, especially when it’s earlier in the morning than you were expecting. A little hum in the ear, a yummy cooked breakfast and a cup of coffee is a much nicer way to start any day!
Spring has nearly sprung, which of course means new beginnings! Many of us will make a start to the annual spring clean and take advantage of the slightly longer days and warmer weather by spending some more quality time outdoors again. And just like us, our pets appreciate all that spring has to offer after a long winter! For our furry friends, this season means more time outside in their run, where there will now be a lot less mud, and plenty of luscious grass to play in and peck at. But before your pets head out again, get them involved with the spring clean and give their run a tidy up as well!
Move Runs to a Fresh Space
Before beginning a spring clean, you’ll want to take your chickens, guinea pigs, or rabbits to a temporary enclosure to keep them safe and out of the way. Once this is done, you can move their run to a fresh spot in the garden. All Omlet runs can be transported and can then simply be secured in their new position using the Omlet screw pegs.
Guinea pig and rabbit bedding should be changed frequently (twice a week), so be sure to include this job when you’re carrying out the spring clean. Fortunately, the Omlet rabbit hutches and guinea pig hutches can be easily navigated to change bedding with slide-out trays, which can be cleaned and refilled.
For hens, spring is the time of year where you’ll begin to notice an increase in egg laying output after a winter of minimal or reduced egg production. Make sure that your hens’ nesting boxes have soft bedding for chickens, which will provide them with a cosy place to nest, as well as reducing odours in their coop.
Use Caddis to Improve Run Cleanliness
To further improve cleanliness of your rabbit or guinea pig hutch, you can use Caddis as an alternative way of feeding. Not only do Caddi Treat Holders provide pets with the mental stimulation they require but they keep food off of the run floor. In doing so, you’ll also keep unwanted predators and rodents away from your pets.
Give Your Pets a Groom
As well as keeping your pets in pristine condition, grooming is a great way to build a bond, and it’s not just for cats and dogs! So why not hop into the new season with your pet looking their very best, all ready to get back into their run?
Although it might be your first instinct to run your guinea pig a bath if they’re looking in need of a clean, this can actually be harmful for them. Instead, invest in a guinea pig grooming kit and chemical-free wipes, which will help to maintain their fur cleanliness. For more information on guinea pig hygiene, have a read of a previous blog we wrote on this topic.
The amount of grooming a rabbit needs, however, is dependent on its breed. Longer haired breeds such as the Lionhead require a thorough grooming regime, so it’s important that you upkeep this routine all year round.
Chickens are very low maintenance animals, and will often bathe themselves in dust to keep clean. You can even offer them a helping hand and make your very own chicken dust bath by converting a bucket or old cat litter tray!
Extend Their Run
Now that your spring clean is complete, why not consider adding a few extras to their run? Your pets will be spending more time outside, so it’s the perfect excuse to get an extension for their run, and theZippi Run Extension Kits are ideal for making your rabbit or guinea pigs’ play space bigger. For chickens, try the Chicken Walk In Run Extensions, which can be fitted to your existing chicken run to give your flock some extra freedom.
Upgrade Your Pets’ Run With New Toys and Accessories
A few more toys and accessories for your pets’ run won’t go amiss either! Omlet has a wide range for chickens, guinea pigs, and rabbits. TheZippi Shelter with a Play Tunnel is a great option to go for, giving your cavies hours of entertainment in their run, alongside providing them with plenty of exercise, essential for their wellbeing.
Chickens will absolutely love theOmlet Chicken Peck Toy for their run, which can be filled with their favourite treats or feed, stimulating their foraging instinct.
Now you’re hopefully all ready for what spring brings you and your pet. Make a start to upgrading their run today!
Whether you’re buying a present for an animal loving child or for your own little pet, we’ve got the perfect gifts, big and small. Check out these top tips, now at an amazing price in the Omlet Black Friday Sale!
Shelters and Play Tunnels
Give your rabbits or guinea pigs something fun to play with on their run this winter with Zippi Guinea Pig Shelters and Rabbit Play Tunnels. Available in green or purple, the shelters are a great way of providing a safe and secluded place for your pets to hide, or as a platform they can jump onto and watch the world go by.
The play tunnels can be placed independently anywhere on the run for your pets to chase each other through, or be connected to the shelters to create a maze that mimics their wild burrows. Entertainment and safe spot in one!
Caddi
The Caddi Rabbit Treat Holder is the perfect stocking filler for chickens, rabbits or guinea pigs, or their owners. The Caddi can be filled with a range of pet appropriate treats, and will swing as the animals peck or bite the treats. It’s the ideal both mental and physical challenge, with the added bonus of a tasty reward!
Hung from the roof of your hutch and run, the height of the Caddi can easily be adjusted, and it’s super easy to remove it for refilling and cleaning.
Qute Hamster and Gerbil Cage
The Qute hamster and gerbil cage allows owners to get closer to their pets. The modern design means you will be happy to display the piece in your kitchen or living room, and the large, crystal clear bedding tray makes it easy for pet owners of all ages to see what their pets are up to. The bedding tray also offers a convenient way of getting your hamster or gerbils out of the cage for playing, socialising and exercise.
Geo Bird Cage
Upgrade your budgie or other small birds’ home this winter with the stunning Geo Bird Cage. The Geo has got everything your bird needs to become a natural part of the home, and you can accessorise with baths, mirrors and toys for your pets to enjoy. You can also add a festive touch to the avian housing with the NEW Nordic Green cover. Pop the woodland themed cover with a calming cream background and a trim of geometric trees over the cage at bedtime to let your pets rest in their own winter wonderland.
Eglu Go Hutch
Do your current pets need a home improvement? The Eglu Go Small Animal Hutch is the perfect way of keeping rabbits or guinea pigs in the garden. The handy integrated hutch and run solution allows your pets to run in and out as and when they like during the day, and when it’s time for a nap they can curl up in the safe and insulated house. In winter you can move the hutch closer to the house, making cleaning and spending time with your pets even easier.
It’s that time of year again when we say goodbye to summer and welcome in the cooler, shorter autumnal days. For many pet owners, summer is a great opportunity to spend quality time with their animals; playing outdoors and enjoying the warmer weather. But, the change in season doesn’t have to mean that the good times have to stop. So whether you’ve got a chicken, guinea pig or are a pet parent to rabbits, here are 8 tips for making their run more fun this autumn.
Why do pets need runs?
It’s important that you continue to keep your pets exercised throughout the year, and animal runs are great for this, giving your furry friends the freedom to roam within a safe and confined environment. Omlet has a range of runs for chickens, rabbit runs and guinea pig runs, which are all predator-resistant, with their innovative mesh designs.
Whilst runs are fantastic for providing your animals with more space, adding a few extras over the next coming months can help to keep both you and your pets entertained.
For guinea pig and rabbit runs
Pig out on veggies
Cavies and rabbits love their fresh veg – you can even make a game of it! Try hiding their favourite pieces of veggies around the run and have them go off to find their treats. This game is the perfect opportunity for you to spend some quality time outside with your pet. Just don’t forget to clean up any remains from the run floor to avoid pesky predators sniffing out the snacks.
Upgrade your pets’ run to an adventure playground withpet play tunnels. They can simply be attached to your guinea pig or rabbits’ run and provide them with a new way to exercise. Plus, they’ve been designed to mimic the innate burrowing behaviours of rabbits and guinea pigs too.
And since both pets have a natural desire to seek a hiding space in a hole, you can be assured that while they’re having fun, they’re feeling safe. The Zippi shelters easily attach to the Omlet play tunnels via connector rings, too, which means you can create a fun maze for your furry friends.
Guinea pig and rabbit toys
Who said toys were just for cats and dogs? Give a new toy to your small animal to help to bust their boredom this season. Toys for guinea pigs and rabbits can simply be hung up in their run and will keep them active, engaged, and curious.
For chicken runs
Make use of those crisp, autumn leaves
The leaves of autumn in your garden can actually be a great source of entertainment for your chickens. All you have to do is build up a pile of crisp autumn leaves in your chickens’ run, and watch them have endless hours of fun pecking. You can even add some sunflower seeds to your pile to have your flock hunt for.
Omlet’s Chicken Swing
Omlet’s Chicken Swing is the perfect way to make your chickens’ run more fun this autumn. The Omlet Chicken Swing will have your chicken in their element, as they get to grips with their new toy. Not only will this run accessory provide them with plenty of entertainment, but you’ll have just as much fun watching them hop on and off and swing back and forth.
Toys for chooks
Chickens can have toys too. A bored chicken can lead to behaviour such as flock bullying and abnormal feather loss, so at this time of year it’s even more important to keep your chickens entertained. Naturally, as the weather drops, these animals get increasingly restless, with less grass and weeds for them to forage on, as they enjoyed over the summer. A chicken peck toy though, is one option to keep your flock happy, providing them with physical and mental stimulation.
Omlet and your pets’ autumn
Omlet knows that this time of year can be more difficult for pet owners but whatever the season brings this year, with Omlet’s range of guinea pig, rabbit and chicken products you and your pets can continue to have fun all autumn long. And, as the end of the season brings colder weather, don’t forget to have a read of the Omlet guides on keeping yourguinea pigs, rabbits, and chickens safe and warm when they’re outdoors.
Hamsters and guinea pigs are relatively low maintenance pets that make a great choice for new pet owners. The two animals have several fundamental differences, though. Knowing what these differences are will help you make the right choice when choosing your pet.
Wild hamsters live across large areas of Europe and Asia, notably in Syria, China and Russia, which are the ancestral homes of most hamsters kept today as pets. These little rodents prefer dry, warm climates.
Guinea pigs are native to the mountainous regions of South America – Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. However, they belong to the same broad family as hamsters – the rodents. This kinship is a bit misleading, though, as the animals have distinctly different needs and dietary requirements.
Hamster vs Guinea Pig
While these two critters do have things in common, their different habitats and ways of life mean that a hamster’s home setup is very different from that of a guinea pig.
One major thing that differentiates hamsters and guinea pigs is lifespan. Hamsters have shorter lifespans than guinea pigs, generally living for 2 to 4 years. This is because they are small and have metabolisms that work much faster than their guinea pig cousins. Guineas generally live from 5 to 8 years, with some individuals reaching 10 years.
Another key difference between the two is their size. As we mentioned above, hamsters are much smaller than guinea pigs, with the average size being in the region of 5-15cm. Even the smallest guinea pigs are larger than the biggest hamsters, with the average guinea being 20-30cm long. This means that guinea pigs need larger enclosures.
While the size of the animal and its enclosure needs to be considered, these factors don’t have a huge impact on general pet care. The following differences are the ones that need to influence your decision.
The four main differences between hamsters and guinea pigs
1. Sleeping patterns
This is possibly the biggest difference between the two species. Hamsters are generally nocturnal creatures, which means they prefer the nightlife. Many hamster owners will be able to tell you how their hamster starts running in its squeaky wheel at 1am!
Guinea pigs, on the other hand, are mostly active during the day, taking naps whenever they feel the need. Rather than sleeping for one long spell each day, they recharge their batteries whenever they feel like it. They do tend to sleep more during the night, though.
2. Social needs
Hamsters and guinea pigs have completely different social needs. In the wild, guinea pigs live in groups of three to ten individuals. They have evolved to be social animals and will soon become sad and stressed if they are denied this interaction. Lonely guinea pigs have even been known to die when left in isolation for too long.
For this reason, it is highly recommended that owners should keep at least two guinea pigs. Keeping just one can work as long as someone is willing and able to step in and do the socialising. Because of their need to be with other animals, guinea pigs will be much more willing than hamsters to spend time, play and interact with humans. This factor – and their handy habit of sleeping at night – can make them the superior choice for children who want to play with their pets.
Hamsters are loners. That, at least, is the case with the Syrian or Golden hamster, which is by far the most popular pet hamster species. While they can live with companions, the other hamster species are perfectly happy – and may in fact be even happier – living on their own. Many hamsters that are kept together can become aggressive towards one another, especially if two males are being kept in close quarters.
If looked after properly and hand-tamed from an early age, hamsters will form a bond with their owners and will be glad to spend time with them. An unsocialised hamster will often bite, though, and this is another offputting thing for children.
3. Diet
The dietary requirements of hamsters and guinea pigs are probably the most significant difference between the two species. Hamsters are omnivorous and will eat pretty much anything they can find. They famously store food in their cheeks for later, making their cute faces puff up, almost doubling the animal’s size.
The easiest option for feeding a hamster is to buy a pre-made food mix that has all the things they need, rather than sourcing your own insects and extra protein to supplement the plants and vegetables in their diets. You can feed your hamster fresh fruit and vegetables, as long as they are washed, and as long as they don’t completely replace the hamster mix. Grains and cereals make a good addition to their diets, too. Also, be sure to provide your hamster with something to chew on, such as a piece of wood or some straw, as this helps keep their teeth in check.
Unlike hamsters, guinea pigs are vegetarian. In the wild, they eat fruits, plant roots and – most importantly – lots of high-fibre grasses. As with hamsters, domestic guinea pigs should be fed a specially made food mix. However, these often have lots of carbohydrates and not enough fibre. For this reason, your guinea pigs will also need lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, grass and hay alongside their food mixes. Hay is crucial for keeping the guinea pigs’ teeth in check, and it also ensures a healthy balance in the stomach bacteria the animals need for digesting their food efficiently.
4. Space
Hamsters are always kept indoors, as they need to be kept somewhere consistently warm. Being small creatures, they don’t need a huge amount of living space, and an enclosure such as the Qute can be incorporated into a room as an attractive part of the furniture as long as they are taken out of the cage for daily exercise and play.
Guinea pigs, in contrast, need a larger hutch and a run, as they are not only bigger than hamsters but need to be kept in groups. Some are kept indoors throughout the year, but if you have space for a guinea pig run in the garden, the animals will love it, and children will be able to interact with their pets in the most effective way.
The upshot here is that a hamster can be easily accommodated if you only have a small indoor space, but a guinea pig can’t.
Overall, both hamsters and guinea pigs make great pets, and both are low maintenance. The key differences between the two are size, lifespan and diet. When choosing which of these wonderful little animals to keep, it mainly boils down to personal preference. As long as you care for them properly, they will soon form a close bond with you.
Some pets, including rabbits and guinea pigs, are naturally vegan. Hamsters and gerbils, although omnivorous, can thrive on a vegan diet in which the protein content is supplied by plants and vegetables. Others, including omnivorous dogs and out-and-out carnivore cats, cannot be easily pleased on meat-free diets.
All animals need to have their nutritional needs satisfied. But this does not mean you can’t have a vegan dog. Vegan cats, though, are a lot trickier.
Can my dog have a vegan diet?
If you were to meet a species of animal for the first time and had to make an accurate guess about its diet, you would get lots of clues by looking at its teeth. The teeth of a dog, like the teeth of a bear, proclaim loud and clear that this animal is an omnivore – that is, one that eats both meat and vegetables. If you think of your dog as a domesticated wolf, you get a good idea of its natural diet.
However, as the panda proves, a supposed meat-eater can sometimes get by perfectly well on a vegan diet. A panda’s teeth are similar to any other bear’s – long canines for meat-eating and molars for grinding vegetation. And yet pandas don’t eat anything other than bamboo. So, if a bear can be vegan, does that mean you can have a vegan dog?
The answer is yes – but it’s a yes with lots of small print! A dog requires a diet that contains the fats and proteins it would get from meat. It is dangerous to ignore this basic need and simply feed your pet with whatever you please. Some dogs have delicate stomachs at the best of times, and a low-fat, high-fibre diet can cause potentially life-threatening problems. A diet that excludes meat should never be fed to a dog without the advice of a professional pet dietician.
The collagen, elastin and keratin found in meat diets are not easily replaced by vegi equivalents. Your dog will also need the ‘long chain’ omega-3 fats found in animal products such as egg, fish and some meats. Vegan omega-3 fats are not the same as animal-derived ones.
All of which presents a headache for the vegan dog owner. There are, however, products available that claim to let your dog live a healthy, meat-free life. Before you take the plunge, it is essential to seek professional, scientific advice and guidance. Compromise is usually the best choice here – a vegan diet supplemented by some of the animal-derived essentials. Crickets, for example, can provide lots of the amino acids and keratin a vegan diet lacks, and they’re 65% protein.
Can my cat have a vegan diet?
The compromise approach is even more important for cats. These are amongst the planet’s true carnivores, obtaining all their dietary requirements from other animals.
The main challenge with minimising the meat in a cat’s diet is that, unlike many mammals (including dogs), cats cannot produce certain proteins. They have to absorb these from the meat and fish in their diet. Amino acids are another issue – cats deficient in the animal-derived amino acid taurine, for example, usually succumb to a specific type of heart problem.
Even a fortified vegan cat food cannot be confidently recommended. Turn the situation on its head, and try to imagine weaning a rabbit onto a meat-only diet, and you get some idea of the challenge – and the ethics – involved.
There are some lab-grown ‘meat’ products in development, with vegan and vegetarian cat owners in mind. However, whether these will arrive – and remain – on the market any time soon is hard to guess.
For many vegan pet owners, there is a huge ethical issue involved in feeding the animals they share a space with. Ethics, however, include the animal’s needs too, and it’s an almost impossible issue to resolve when it comes to cats. If you are able to reduce but not eliminate the meat in your cat’s diet, that’s the safer option.
Top 10 pets for vegan households
There are, of course, plenty of other pets that don’t eat meat, or that eat some meat but can still thrive on a meat-free diet. Here are our ten favourites.
1. Rabbits. No problems here – rabbits are happy vegans, with diets based on hay and vegetables. You could argue that the soft pellets they eject and then eat are animal products of a sort, but they are simply semi-digested vegetation.
2. Guinea pigs. Like rabbits, these wonderful little characters thrive on a 100% vegan diet.
3. Hamsters. As most hamster owners feed their pets with shop-bought hamster food, they may not be able to say exactly what the ingredients of that food are. However, vegetarian and vegan hamster foods are readily available.
4. Gerbils. Like hamsters, gerbils are omnivores that can live happily on a vegan diet. They tend to have rather delicate stomachs, so feeding them with a high-quality pellet mix is essential. Too much fresh stuff can cause problems.
5. Mice. Although they will eat pretty much anything in the wild, mice can thrive on vegan diets; but it is still best to use a food mix prepared specifically for them. This ensures that they will not be deficient in any of the vitamins and minerals they need.
6. Rats. These are the most omnivorous of rodents, but as long as you feed them a vegan mix that has been fortified with all the nutrients they need, they will thrive. Indeed, rats who eat too much animal fat tend to become fat and die prematurely.
7. Chickens. If you watch a free-range hen, it soon becomes clear that she will eat anything – grass, beetles, worms, and everything in your veg patch if you’re not careful! Most chicken feed emulates this mix of plant and animal products. However, it is possible to buy vegan chicken feed, and circumstantial evidence suggests that hens can thrive on it. However, they are likely to produce fewer eggs, and you will not be able to stop them scratching for worms and bugs, no matter how vegan the layers pellets are!
8. Budgies and parrots. Vegans will have no obstacles to face with budgies and parrots, unless the birds are being bred. Egg-brooding female birds need a protein boost, normally delivered via an egg-based food or cooked meat. Vegan alternatives are available, though.
9. Finches. Many finch species enjoy bugs and mealworms as treats, but these are not an essential part of an adult finch’s diet. These birds thrive on a mixture of seeds and fresh vegetables.
10. One for reptile fans. When you think of pet snakes and lizards, you probably have an image of dead mice or doomed crickets. However, there are a few commonly kept pet reptiles that eat a 100% vegan diet, the most popular being the Green iguana. Getting the balance of vegetables just right is very important for the animal’s health, but meat is certainly something you won’t have to worry about.
There is no shortage of choice when it comes to vegan pets. Keeping a vegan cat or dog is a much trickier proposition, though. And with all these animals, a balanced diet that matches the pet’s nutritional requirements should be your primary goal.
You can keep chickens with other pets when the proper preparations and precautions are in place. Some pets like cats and dogs may have an innate prey drive that chickens can trigger, so it’s important to take introductions slowly to ensure success. With these tips, you’ll be able to confidently introduce your current pets to your chickens, or introduce new pets to your existing flock with confidence.
Keeping chickens with dogs
Dogs are the most common pets in the world, with millions kept as pets across the country. So, if you’re among the many dog owners, adding chickens to your family is possible once you consider your dog’s temperament and trainability.
Assessing your dog
If you’re a dog owner, the first thing to consider is their temperament. Different dog breeds may also react differently to birds as part of their nature. For example, breeds like Labrador Retrievers or German Shorthair Pointers may become easily excited around birds due to their natural hunting and retrieving drives. Other breeds that may have increased prey drives include:
Regardless of their breed, if your dog becomes excited or overly curious around small animals, their behaviour will likely carry over to chickens. If your dog loses their mind over the birds at your backyard feeder, or drags you to investigate the park ducks on your evening walks, they’ll likely stress out your flock – and themselves.
Dogs without a prey drive or with little interest in birds will likely not pose a problem to your chickens, but all dogs react differently when new pets enter their territory. Usually, most dogs will adjust to the new backyard occupants just fine after an acclimation period. You will likely see your dog expressing interest in your chickens at first – hanging around and sniffing the coop. They may even express a desire to interact with your chickens through playful postures and behaviours. Understanding your dog’s body language around your chickens will help you determine what their relationship will be like.
Chickens are prey animals, and can be hurt easily. Dogs cannot play with chickens as they would with other dogs or even other pets. It’s important to teach your pup that chickens are fragile friends – not toys or something to hunt.
Teaching dogs to get along with chickens
Unless leashed walks make your dog overly excited, their first encounter with your chickens should be done with a dog collar and lead. Make sure their collar is tight enough that they don’t slip out, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable. Walk your dog up to your chickens’ enclosure and let them sniff. Maintain a tight leash until you see your dog’s reaction, and allow the lead more slack slowly to reinforce good behaviour.
Let your dog watch you spend time with your chickens. This should be done with your chickens in the safety of a strong walk in chicken run. If your dog does more than sniff or hang around the run, take a step back and approach their interaction from a different angle.
It could take several weeks for your dog to fully accept your chickens. Some other ways to help your dogs adjust to your chickens include:
Setting up chicken fencing around the outside of your flock’s run for your dog to observe them at a distance.
If your dog has a run or playpen, place it next to your chickens’ run and slowly decrease the distance over several days until they are side-by-side.
Reward your dog with their favourite treats each time they are calm around your chickens.
Make sure to never leave your dog unattended with your chickens – especially in the beginning. Even if they can’t get into the run with them, an excited dog’s barking can easily stress your flock out.
Keeping chickens with cats
Cats are more difficult to train than their canine counterparts, and are decidedly less predictable in their behaviour. But the good news is that most cats don’t see a large hen as potential prey the same way a dog might. Most cat owners will agree that their cats show little to no interest in their chickens. In fact, cats and chickens have a somewhat symbiotic relationship.
Birds and their feed attract rodents, which a cat would much prefer over your hens. So, when your cat is able to patrol your chickens’ surroundings, chances are good that any potential rodent problem will be nipped in the bud.
Some cats may show increased interest in your hens. This largely depends on your cat’s breed and temperament. Cats will pose a greater threat to chicks rather than grown hens, but by keeping your flock in a strong chicken coop and run, you’ll ensure they stay safe from your cat.
Keeping chickens with guinea pigs
It may be tempting to keep some cute cavies in with your chickens, but in reality it’s not wise. Chickens will likely pick on them, and with their short legs, guinea pigs can’t get away from them quickly. Their dietary requirements are also very different, and your chickens may eat your guinea pigs’ food in favor of their own, which means neither animal will be getting the nutrients they need. If you have cavies and want to house them near your chickens, it’s best for them to have their own guinea pig hutch and run.
Keeping chickens with rabbits
Rabbits on the other hand are fast enough to fend for themselves against chickens, and if raised together from a young age, can do well around chickens. Still, they require their own dietary needs and clean sleeping quarters. They don’t roost like chickens, so they’ll need their own burrowing space in the run or under the coop.
The easiest way to achieve this is by adding walk in chicken run partitions. This will allow you to create “rooms” for each species to ensure they all get what they need. You can open the partition doors to allow everyone to be together whenever you’d like, or create a third space as a common area.
Remember to try to give each species as much space as possible in their respective areas to make them feel safe and comfortable.
Chickens and other pets
Chickens can also mix happily with goats, and with female ducks (males will tends to bully them). Ironically, they do not mix with birds in an aviary. They will eat anything that falls to the aviary floor, but they will also happily peck the other birds whenever they can and may attract rats and mice, which will cause problems for the smaller birds.
If you live in a rural setting, you can keep chickens with other barnyard animals. Chickens mix happily with:
Goats
Sheep
Cows
Alpacas or llamas
Pigs
Female ducks, guinea fowl, peacocks, geese, or pheasants
Any other avian species kept with chickens should be docile and preferably female, as males can bully hens. Smaller birds like quail or pigeons will likely get pecked at by chickens, so it’s best to stick with larger birds as run-mates. Small pets like hamsters, gerbils, turtles, or frogs should never be kept with chickens – they will be pecked at and killed.
Omlet and your pets
Omlet has all of the pet products you need to keep your furry and feathered family members healthy and happy. Having multiple types of pets is exciting, and through our line of chicken coops, chicken runs, and walk in run partitions, you’ll be able to create a safe haven for all of your animals to enjoy. And, by knowing that Omlet products are protecting your flock, you can rest easy knowing that you’ve provided them with the best chicken housing solutions available.
With World Hamster Day looming on 12 April, what better time to celebrate these furry favourites? There are many reasons why so many people decide to get a hamster. Here are 10 of them:
1. Hamsters are friendly!
Golden hamsters, once they have been successfully hand-tamed, form strong bonds with their owners. Although they don’t enjoy the company of other hamsters, they rely on their owners for company and interaction. Chinese hamsters can become very fond of their owners too, although they can also thrive in groups (unlike the Golden). The relatively large size of the Golden hamster makes it easier to handle than the smaller breeds, too.
2. Hamsters are easy to look after
A pet hamster pretty much looks after itself during its nocturnal adventures, and in terms of equipment, all it needs is a suitable cage with a few toys.
3. Feeding hamsters is not expensive
Although a hamster stuffs all the food you give it into its cheek pouches, this doesn’t mean they’re greedy!
The hamster simply hoards the food in its favourite corner and doesn’t actually eat very much on any given day. Your bag of dried food will last several; weeks, especially when supplemented with a few slices of fresh fruit and veg.
4. Hamsters are healthy!
These little rodents are generally healthy during their short lives, as long as they are kept in a suitable cage and fed a nutritious diet. The biggest hazard they face is sustaining injuries through falling, so they need to be handled with care.
5. Hamsters love to explore
Endlessly inquisitive, hamsters love getting out and about in a hamster ball. If you can set up a secure enclosure, they will love exploring its every nook and cranny. Leave some treats hidden in the enclosure or stuffed into wicker balls, and the hamster will have a great time tracking them down and rooting them out. They also love playing on ladders or in runs.
6. Hamsters don’t need intensive training!
Hand-taming a hamster is the beginning and end of the necessary training. There’s no pressure to teach obedience tricks or toilet training, making them a very low-maintenance pet.
7. Hamsters don’t take up much space
These are small mammals, making them suitable even for small flats.
8. Hamsters are super-clean
Unlike most rodents, hamsters choose one spot in their cage for the toilet, making them very easy to clean out. They are also scrupulously clean themselves, forever fussing with their fur. This means their human friends don’t have to do any of the pet washing.
9. Hamsters are calming
Nothing seems to ruffle a hamster. No woofing, no running away in a panic. They scuttle around contentedly and are the most relaxing things to watch this side of a peaceful fish tank!
10. Hamsters don’t shed fur
Many people with allergies say that hamsters cause them no problems. This is linked to the fact that they don’t send tiny bits of fur drifting through the air or sticking to carpets. A hamster is nothing to be sneezed at!
12 April – World Hamster Day
On 12 April, hamster owners the world over celebrate their furry friends. They are one of the most popular pets in the world, and yet they have only been kept as pets for the last 90 years or so.
The story of pet hamsters begins on 12 April 1930, when Israel Aharoni, a zoologist and professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, captured a female Golden (or Syrian) hamster and her litter in Aleppo, Syria. Little did he know that this female would be the source of ALL pet Golden hamsters!
The hamsters were kept as laboratory animals, but escapees became the source of most of the wild Syrian hamsters in Israel today. Descendants of Aharoni’s captive hamsters were shipped to Britain in 1931, and the Zoological Society of London acquired a pair in 1932.
This pioneering pair were the Adam and Eve of British hamsters – in 1937, descendants of these pioneering rodents were given to private breeders, and these were the source of all the Golden hamsters in the British pet trade. If you own one, it’s 99,9% certain that its ancestry goes back to those London Zoo hamsters.
Mitochondrial DNA studies have confirmed that all domestic golden hamsters in the UK and the USA are descended from a single animal – the one captured in 1930 by Israel Aharoni.
That international brotherhood and sisterhood of hamsters is certainly something worth celebrating!
If you’ve recently added a hamster to your family, or are considering getting one, you may be wondering what illnesses hamsters get, and how they can be treated. Thankfully, since hamsters are active pets with hearty appetites, it’s usually apparent when they aren’t feeling their best. We’ve outlined some of the most common ailments that hamsters may experience, and what to do if you notice anything amiss with your small mammal friend.
How healthy are hamsters?
Hamsters are generally healthy animals that live full, but relatively short lives. Depending on the breed of hamster you have, the life expectancy for even healthy hamsters is between 2-4 years. But, over the course of your time together, you may see your hamster acting “off” or even display obvious signs of illness. It’s important to perform regular health checks on your hamster to identify any potential problems early on.
By checking in with your hamster daily, you’ll be able to see if there are any issues with their coat, teeth, eyes, or paws, and note any behavioural changes. It’s a good idea to get your hamster established with a veterinarian that treats hamsters as soon as you get them – that way both you and your veterinarian will have a baseline for your hamster’s health. And, if you notice anything wrong with your hamster, a quick phone call or visit with the vet will help put your mind at ease.
Most common illnesses in hamsters
This is not an exhaustive list, but the following illnesses and ailments are those that hamsters are most commonly seen with. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of each, you’ll be able to determine the best course of action.
Abscess
Hamsters can develop infections if they have cut or poked themselves, which can allow abscesses to form. Hamsters that chew on the bars of their cage may develop an abscess in the mouth, or you may see an abscess on the sides or legs of hamsters that have cage mates from rough play or fighting.
Note: Abscesses need to be treated by a vet – do not attempt to drain an abscess at home.
Colds
Your hamster can actually catch a cold from you. The same virus that causes the common cold in humans can be transmitted to hamsters. Signs and symptoms of a cold in hamsters are similar to those in humans:
Watery eyes
Discharge from the nose
Coughing
Wheezing
Sneezing
Lethargy
Your hamster’s coat may also appear to stay wet as they continually wipe their runny nose on their fur.
Treatment for a cold in hamsters includes:
Keeping their bedding fresh, taking care to use a dust-free variety
Offer plenty of food and water
Supplement their food with cod liver oil
Colds will usually pass quickly and on their own, but if your hamster stops eating or drinking, it may be time for a trip to the vet to rule out secondary infection. Try to avoid handling your hamster when you have a cold to prevent passing it along to them.
Cuts
Skin abrasions are more common in hamsters that live together. Scuffles, rough play, or challenges to the hierarchy can result in cuts. If you don’t have a safe and secure hamster cage, you may see a hamster with cuts even if they live alone. These are usually from weak or bent cage wires, ill-fitted tubing, or sharp plastic edges.
Cuts can usually be cleaned at home with warm soapy water. However, hamsters will lick and tend to their wounds, so anything more than a superficial wound may not heal well without antibiotics or other treatment from the vet.
Problems with the ears
A hamster that scratches at their ears constantly, seems sensitive around their head when being held, or appears off-balance or walking in tight circles, an inner-ear infection may be to blame. Your veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatories to treat ear infections. While seeing your hamster in distress may be upsetting, ear infections usually clear up quickly.
Dry ears are another common problem. Along with incessantly scratching at their ears, you may also notice the skin around your hamster’s ears cracking or flaking. To remedy this, rub some vaseline on their ears with a cotton swab for a few days.
Problems with the eyes
Any swelling in or around your hamster’s eyes, discolouration of the eye itself, or thick or coloured discharge is not normal, and warrants a call to the vet. Some possible causes include:
Trauma to the eye (a puncture or scratch)
Foreign object in the eye
Trouble with their cheek pouch
Oral abscess
Allergic reactions
Tumors
Glaucoma
If your hamster’s eye is so goopy that it is matted shut, apply a warm compress (water on a soft rag) for a few minutes to gently remove the crusted material. Don’t try to force your hamster’s eye open once the material is removed – they should be able to open their eyes on their own after a few minutes of having them cleaned.
Lumps
Being familiar with normal hamster anatomy will help you determine if something isn’t right. Some lumps and bumps are normal (especially in males or lactating females), but you’ll know quickly while handling your hamster if something has popped up suddenly.
Lumps don’t all have scary causes, but you should always have them checked out by a veterinarian. They’ll likely take a small sample with a tiny needle to determine the makeup of the lump. Some potential causes are:
Lipomas (benign, fatty tumors)
Cysts
Abscesses
Enlarged glands
Tumors
Mange
The parasites that cause mange can’t be seen with the naked eye – but they do cause obvious discomfort in your hamster. Symptoms of mange in hamsters include:
Scratching at their bodies excessively
Hair loss
Red or scaly patches of skin
Matted hair coat
The mites that cause mange can be seen under a microscope, so your vet will likely take a small sample of the inflamed skin of your hamster. If your hamster is diagnosed with mange, they will need baths with a special shampoo that your vet will prescribe.
Fleas or lice
These parasites can infect your hamster if other pets in your household have them. It’s important to keep your dogs and cats on a flea preventative to avoid your small pets from getting them. The same preventatives are not safe for hamsters, so be sure not to apply any flea products on your hamster without direction from your veterinarian.
If your hamster has many visible parasites, you can bathe them in warm water with a small amount of unscented dish soap (be sure to dry them thoroughly so they don’t get chilled). The lather from the soap will kill the existing parasites – but won’t prevent more from hitching a ride on them later. Treat all the animals in your home for fleas and lice to prevent re-infestation.
Strokes
Due to their short lifespans, hamsters age rapidly – and sometimes all of a sudden. Part of this ageing process may include strokes. Symptoms of a stroke include:
Unsteady gait
Circling
Swaying or other involuntary, repetitive motion
Most strokes are small enough to not leave your hamster significantly impaired. But, no matter the size, there is no treatment or prevention for strokes in hamsters. If your hamster has suffered a stroke, they may need to have their housing adjusted to make them more comfortable. Keeping their food bowl topped off and waterer full will help them stay nourished, and you may need to remove obstacles like their wheel or tubing to prevent injury.
Issues in the mouth
A hamster with a poor appetite is surely feeling under the weather. But, sometimes the cause of a poor appetite is actually inside of their mouth. Hamsters are rodents, and as such, their teeth grow constantly. They need to be able to gnaw on applewood toys and be fed a quality pellet as the main staple of their diet to keep their teeth filed down. Reasons other than overgrown teeth that may cause oral discomfort in hamsters include:
Infected cheek pouches
Loose or infected teeth
Oral abscesses `
Injury to the mouth or jaw
If your hamster seems reluctant to eat, but appears and acts fine otherwise, they’ll need to be seen by your veterinarian.
Urinary problems
If you spot blood on your hamster’s bedding, it could be due to an injury, a burst abscess, or a urinary infection. An examination of the hamster’s bedding will tell you if it is the latter problem. A change in urine colour, or a lack of urine, indicate health issues too.
Keeping your hamster’s cage clean is good practice for their overall health, but their bedding can tell you a lot about their health. The colour, odour, consistency and amount of urine in their cage can point to potential issues with their urinary tract. Signs of a hamster experiencing urinary tract issues include:
Blood in the urine
Thick, cloudy urine
Decrease in urine output
Urine with a foul odour
Urinary tract infections can turn serious quickly, so it’s best to have your hamster evaluated by a veterinarian if you notice a change in their eliminations.
Wet tail
“Wet tail” is a term for serious, bacterial diarrhoea that causes faeces-soaked fur around the tail. This condition can prove fatal quickly for hamsters – not only from the bacterial infection, but from dehydration.
Offer plenty of water until you can get your hamster to the veterinarian. Wet tail should not be treated at home, as time is of the essence to save your hamster from this illness.
Preventing illness in your hamster
The absolute best way to treat illnesses in your hamster is to try to prevent them entirely. Housing your hamster in a cage like the Qute Hamster Cage by Omlet will make cleaning quick and easy – keeping your hamster clean and healthy. The removable bedding tray makes complete bedding changes a breeze, and the wipe-clean plastic surfaces don’t give bacteria a chance to set up shop.
If you have a social hamster breed, be sure to quarantine new hamsters for a minimum of two weeks before introducing them to your other hamsters. Feed all of your hamsters high-quality feed and offer fresh water daily to keep their immune systems and digestion working properly.
Omlet and your hamster’s health
Our Qute Hamster Cage was designed with both humans and hamsters in mind. Our all-in-one hamster home gives your furry friend everything they need to thrive, and cuts down on your time spent cleaning so that you can get back to bonding with your hamster. And, even if your hamster does become ill, the Qute will keep them comfortable while they’re under the weather, and help you keep their home clean with minimal effort – giving you more time to show them the extra love and care they need.
There are five hamster species commonly kept as pets. They are all similar in their requirements, but with one or two important differences between species.
The most familiar is the Golden, or Syrian hamster, which is also the largest of the five. The others are all in the group known as Dwarf hamsters – Campbell’s, Roborovski, Chinese and Winter White.
Looking After a Golden Hamster
An estimated 75% of pet hamsters are Syrians, largely because they have been popular for many years, and are therefore widely available. This species is 15–18 cm (6–7 inches) long, and is relatively slow moving (compared to the much nippier Dwarf species). This makes them easy to handle, and that’s one of the keys to their popularity. A nervous owner will find handling very easy (i.e. the hamster isn’t going to run up your sleeve or make a bolt for the door before you can stop it!)
The Golden is a loner, and that means its owner will be its only companion – which is great for forming owner–pet bonds. The hamster will usually live for 2 to 2 ½ years, and can be hand-tamed from a very early age, so you will usually have a long and satisfying friendship with these little bundles of fun.
There are a different types of Golden hamster. One of the most popular is the long-haired ‘Teddy Bear’. There are also different colour varieties, with mixtures of gold, brown, russet, yellow, grey, black and white.
IDEAL FOR: first time hamster owners looking for a single, easy-going pet that’s easy to handle.
Looking After a Chinese Hamster
The Chinese – also known as the Striped, Grey or Rat-tailed – is the least common of the hamsters in the pet trade, although its popularity is growing all the time. There’s a lot to love in these little characters – they are very gentle, and once hand-tamed they will love their daily human interaction.
This species grows to a length of between 10 and 13 cm (4–5 inches) inches and, and is dark grey with a darker stripe running down the back. It has a long tail, by hamster standards, hence the ‘Rat-tailed’ tag. It tends to live a little longer than the Golden hamster, with a lifespan of 2 ½ to 3 years, and like the Golden it likes to live alone. This makes it bond very readily with a human companion.
IDEAL FOR: first time owners, or owners looking for something a little less common than the Golden, but with a similar personality.
Looking After a Roborovski Hamster
This is a lively little pet, and likes to live with at least one other fellow Roborovski – in a same-sex pair or small group. Single animals will do just fine, though, as long as they get lots of human company and handling. They are 10 cm (4 inches) long, and are endlessly curious about the world around them. When handling, you need to be alert, as these are fast movers.
Roborovskis are long-lived, by hamster standards, generally lasting between 3 and 3 ½ years. Being keen climbers and explorers, they will need a cage large enough to accommodate their endless expeditions, so space is sometimes an issue for would-be owners. They also have a rather strong smell, so they need cleaning out very regularly.
IDEAL FOR: owners who want to keep more than one hamster at a time, and have space for a larger cage.
Looking After a Winter White Hamster
This species is also called the Siberian, due to its wonderful colour change during the winter. It is grey-brown for much of the year, with a handsome black stripe down its back. In winter the fur becomes white, but the black stripe remains.
This little character reaches just over 10cm (4 inches) in length, and can live alone very happily, making it a good pet for someone who has lots of time to handle and bond with their pet, and who isn’t nervous handling a fast-moving, small animal. Winter Whites only live 1 ½ to 2 years, and this makes them less popular than some of the other species.
IDEAL FOR: hamster lovers looking for a change from the commoner species, and who can’t wait to see that wonderful change to wintry white!
Looking After a Campbell’s Hamster
This is another short-lived hamster, with a lifespan of 1 ½ to 2 years. They are usually kept in same-sex pairs or groups, but can thrive as singletons as long as they get lots of handling and attention from their owner. Their small size makes them tricky to handle, being both swift and fragile, so they are not suitable for young or nervous owners.
IDEAL FOR: owners who want to keep a group of hamsters together in a larger cage.
Hamsters are known for adorably stuffing food in their cheeks, giving them a puffy, caught-with-their-paws-in-the-cookie-jar look. But what exactly enables them to carry food in their mouths, and what do they do with it once it’s there? We’ll share 9 things you may not know about hamster cheek pouches so that you can understand your furry friend’s peculiar behaviour a little bit better.
9 things you might not know about hamster cheek pouches
All hamsters have cheek pouches, but what are they for, and how do they work? Let’s dive into those deep cheek pouches — if there’s still room!
Cheek pouches are part of hamster anatomy
What we call a “cheek pouch” is actually expandable parts of your hamster’s oral mucosa, or the lining of the cheeks. When they’re empty, your hamster’s cheek pouch looks like a small, deflated balloon. Once your hamster starts filling their pouches, they can expand all the way back to their shoulders. In fact, a hamster can stuff up to 20% of their body weight into their cheek pouches. That would be like a 120 lb human carrying an extra 24 lbs worth of food around in their mouth.
They act like a built-in lunchbox
The main purpose of their cheek pouches is to carry food. In the wild, hamsters use their cheeks to carry food back to their home to enjoy it in a safe, quiet place. Domesticated hamsters exhibit the same behaviour. You may observe your hamster depositing its proffered cheek pouch items in their hideout, play tunnels, or hamster sleeping area.
Food to-go
Hamsters can both run and eat with their cheeks full. In fact, hamsters can still eat when their cheek pouches are full. They’ll stuff their cheeks full, then eat some bites before taking their packed food back to their destination. And, even with all of the extra weight of full cheek pouches, hamsters aren’t slowed down by their to-go meals.
Dry storage
Here’s a fun fact: hamsters don’t release saliva into their cheek pouches. This keeps their packed lunches nice and dry and prevents bacteria from building up in their mouths. Hamster dentists are in short supply, so keeping their teeth free from moist food is important for overall oral hygiene.
Backup baby carrier
This isn’t something you’ll likely see in your domesticated hamster, but female hamsters can actually secure their babies in their cheek pouches to make a quick getaway, or to serve as an emergency hiding spot. Packing their babies in this way is only used as a last resort when their nest is being threatened.
Taking out the trash
Hamsters are actually pretty tidy creatures that don’t appreciate spoiled food in their pantries. They’ll use their pouches to stuff and carry spoiled food away from their fresh goods. This too is not very common with domesticated hamsters that have a clean cage, so having an easy-to-clean hamster cage will aid your furry friend in their housekeeping endeavours.
A wheelbarrow or shopping cart
How would you like to carry your latest decor or bedding finds home in your mouth? That’s exactly how hamsters sometimes use their cheek pouches — as vessels to carry bedding and nesting or building materials to the home.
Playing favourites
Some hamsters favour one side of their mouth over the other, while some will happily stuff both cheeks full. Watch to see if your hamster is a left or right-stuffer, or an ambi-stuffer.
A potential problem site
It’s possible for cheek pouches to be punctured or have abscesses form in them. You should keep an eye on your hamster’s overall health, with special attention on their mouths. If you notice any lumps that linger for more than a day, contact your veterinarian.
Omlet and your hamsters
Hamsters are amazing animals that are a pleasure to share a home with. Their quirky but lovable personalities are what inspired the Qute hamster cage. We wanted hamsters to have their ideal home, but one that was easy for their owners to keep clean while looking great in any room of the house. With a Qute hamster cage by Omlet, you’ll be able to see your hamster stuff their cheeks along with all of their other adorable behaviours up close and personally.
All hamster owners know that they make great pets! They are cute and cuddly, but also very independent and clever. Whether you’re a beginner or a long term hamster fan there is always more to learn about these amazing critters! That’s why we’ve put together this Best of Hamsters, a few blogs with more information and advice, perfect for teaching your children about their pet, as well as some DIY fun you can do together!
12 Interesting Facts About Hamsters
Hamsters are rodents from the subfamily Cricetinae. They were brought to the United States from Syria in 1936. There are approximately… Read more
Hamsters make excellent pets – they’re fun, cute, and relatively easy to care for. Their cuddly credentials have made them popular pets all over the world. Hamsters bring a lot of joy to a lot of people, but how can… Read more
Want to Teach your Hamster Tricks? Here are our Best Tips!
Someone once said that you can train anything that has a brain that connects to a stomach, and that goes for hamsters as well. They are actually very clever little creatures and probably capable of more than you think – like learning tricks for example! Training your hamster is a… Read more
Hamsters love to play and explore! There are many toys and treats available to buy for your furry friend, but wouldn’t it be great to design and construct an exciting maze for them? They are… Read more
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While these two critters do have things in common, their different habitats and ways of life mean that a hamster’s home setup is very different from that of a guinea pig.
The dietary requirements of hamsters and guinea pigs are probably the most significant difference between the two species. Hamsters are omnivorous and will eat pretty much anything they can find. They famously store food in their cheeks for later, making their cute faces puff up, almost doubling the animal’s size.
If you were to meet a species of animal for the first time and had to make an accurate guess about its diet, you would get lots of clues by looking at its teeth. The teeth of a dog, like the teeth of a bear, proclaim loud and clear that this animal is an omnivore – that is, one that eats both meat and vegetables. If you think of your dog as a domesticated wolf, you get a good idea of its natural diet.
1. Rabbits
With World Hamster Day looming on 12 April, what better time to celebrate these furry favourites? There are many reasons why so many people decide to get a hamster. Here are 10 of them:
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