Dedication: Dwarf Hamsters

A really dear friend died about 3 weeks ago, so I decided to make a small dedication to her/him/it. Hamtatoe, this is for you. (The picture to the left is Hamtaty and I!!)

Dwarf Hamsters are common house pets and can be found in most pet stores. They are active little buggers that tend to bite of not used to/trained being hand-held at a young age. They can grow up to 3-4in and live up to 3-4years. Hamtaty lasted a whopping 3 years, a true fighter!

They are social creatures and like to be with other hamsters. However, if you are introducing a new "friend" into the cage, make sure that the two agree with each other or else you'll have fights! Clean out the cage and put the NEW hamster in first, let it roam around and get its scent in the cage...then put in the old resident. If one if male, put the male in first. Let them adjust to each other, but observe them carefully! Some hamsters just like being solitary.


Hamsters are similar to rabbits and other rodents in that they like to gnaw on things. Some hamsters reject chew toys and will chew on their cages (like Hamtatoe)...this problem can be solved with a dog biscuit that is hard and tasty...YUM :)

Since hamsters don't have that long of a life expectancy, towards the later part of their life, they might be prone to health problems. Most people don't take their hamsters to the vet because the price of a hamster can be lower than $10 where as a trip to the vet could be over $100.

However, always remember that the easiest way for both you as an owner, and them as a pet, is just to take good daily care.

Good owner responsibility is key to a healthy, happy pet. This decreases the need for expensive trips to the vet and will likely encourage a stronger bond between you and your special friend. Remember that pets (like people) need daily TLC...so even if you're busy with school, work or social life....if you have a pet, remember your responsibility and commitment and make some time to bond and care for your pet.

To learn more about dwarf hamsters and how to care for them, check out this online community dedicated to dwarf hamsters!