by Ninian Williams

Created on: April 20, 2008

Well, I never thought I would love a hamster, but our dear little "Mickey" has won my heart. Now,over a year old, he is "Mr. Personality" in this household. I hope he continues to have a wonderful life, but there are some pointers I would like to share with other hamster owners and would-be owners.

Hamsters are delicate creatures. We feed Mickey quality dry food, but also supplement his diet with sunflower seeds (unsalted) and chopped fruits such as apple and banana. He seems to like these special treats. We also give him spring water rather than fluoridated tap water. I honestly feel pets thrive when given pure water. Trace amounts of drugs and fluoride might not affect our sturdier systems as greatly as they possibly would affect a small animal. I have not seen studies done on this subject, but common sense tells me that Mickey's life is enhanced by giving him better water.

Another key responsibility to avoid "wet-tail" and other problems with hamsters is simply being consistent in changing the hamster's "bedding." Twice a week is preferable, but at least clean that cage once a week. We use aspen. As hamsters tend to "pad" their houses with their bedding, it is even more important to change the aspen regularly and do the necessary cage maintenance to ensure a healthier living space for the hamster.

Just a note: When I clean the cage, I put Mickey in an old "croc" box that has holes for him to peep through. He seems to find this fun to do while he waits for his clean cage. I also place his food bowl in the box. I think this calms him down, but that is an assumption on my part.

Mickey loves attention, and I think he knows we care about him. Once a shy and reclusive soul, now he stands on the top of his house to get our attention and likes being held for short periods of time. Too much handling may be problematic, and certainly never let your hamster roam out of sight. Small children should be made aware that the hamster can easily go missing if he is left unattended. If we have children visit, we let them hold Mickey, but only for a brief time, and never do we leave the hamster with the children without being monitored.

I hope you find this little article informational. Hamsters are delightful creatures, but they need special care to be healthy and happy.

What a terrific little friend Mickey has become.

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