Hamsters are small, furry rodents that are popular as pets. They belong to the family Cricetidae and are known for their cute appearance and playful behaviour. These little creatures are typically nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. They come in various breeds, each with its own unique characteristics and colours.
One of the most well-known types of hamsters is the Syrian hamster, often referred to as the golden hamster. This breed is larger than other hamsters and is known for its friendly demeanour. Other popular breeds include the dwarf hamsters, such as the Roborovski and Campbell’s hamsters, which are smaller and can be more social.
Hamsters are known for their cheek pouches, which they use to store food and transport it back to their burrows. They are also curious and love to explore their environment, making them entertaining pets. Providing a spacious cage, plenty of bedding, and stimulating toys can help keep them happy and healthy.
Overall, hamsters make delightful companions for both children and adults. Their charming antics and low-maintenance needs make them a great choice for anyone looking to add a small pet to their home.
Teeth
Hamsters have very sharp large incisors that grow continually throughout their lives. As a result, they need to “file” them down by gnawing on something hard. If the incisors become too long the hamster will find it difficult to close its mouth or chew properly. They should therefore always have small pieces of wood available to chew on to keep the incisors the right length (not pine or cedar that are toxic to hamsters). Keeping your hamster’s teeth healthy is important. Regular dental care helps prevent problems and ensures your pet stays happy and comfortable.
Cheek Pouches
Hamsters have expandable cheek pouches formed by hard dry skin that they use to collect food and carry it to their dens. There is no saliva present in the pouches so the food remains dry and fresh and does not deteriorate. Hamsters use their forelegs to empty their cheek pouches.
Fur
The Hamster’s body is covered with thick soft hair that is usually darker on the back and lighter on the belly. Unlike mice, hamsters normally have very short tails, except for Chinese hamsters which can have tails up to 2 cm long.
Legs
The forelegs of hamsters have four fingers with robust nails that they use to dig tunnels. Hamsters have quite prehensile fingers with which they are able to keep a firm hold on seeds while they nibble them. Hamsters also use their forelegs to groom themselves. They are first licked to dampen them and are then passed over the fur to clean and smooth it. The rear legs are longer and more robust and have 5 fingers.
Ears
The ears, are rather large, and externally are covered by light body hairs, while inside they are hairless; while sleeping hamsters curl up to protect them.
Hamsters are mammals and to feed their babies (pups) they have 7 to 11 pairs of nipples that are only really visible when the hamster is newly born and hairless.