hamsters

[marlowmanor]

We just got 2 Russian Dwarf hamsters this week. I looked up basic care information but I would love some information from people who have experience with hamsters. So here is my list of questions:
1) What are the favorite treats you have found for hamsters?
2) What is the best way to get them friendly and hand tame?
We have one who is very friendly(Snowball) and one who is nippy(Cloudy). We are having to handle them daily because we have them in a wire cage for them to play in during the day and put them in an aquarium set up at night.
3) What are some good homemade toys for them?
We have already tried toilet paper rolls and they have been enjoying them. I know the information I have found says to change up their toys/environment on a regular basis so they don't get bored. I would love to have some things I can make for them rather than have to buy things all the time.
4) Is there anything you(as someone with hamster experience) believe a new hamster owner should know?

 

[woodleighcreek]

breed hamsters and have 6 . 4 Syrians and 2 Roborovski. One thing I found out it that hamsters LOVE Papaya. They also enjoy raspberries. Check out this link for more info on taming hamsters. http://www.hamstercentral.com/wiki/Taming_tips

As for toys, I make mini envelopes and put treats in them or stuff treats in origami. I will see if I can make a video of it.

I run a 4-H club on pocket pets and here is what I have written up about Campbell's Dwarf hamsters.

Campbells Dwarf hamsters are social animals that enjoy living in groups. If you choose to get more than one, make sure that you get a group of the same sex to avoid breeding. Campbells Dwarf hamsters are about three inches long.

And just general hamster care info.


Home: You will need a cage that is at least 15 by 12 to keep a hamster in. This is suitable for one Syrian or three dwarf hamsters. This size is only the minimum. The bigger the better for your hamster. You can keep your hamster in a pet store hamster cage, a glass aquarium, or a bin cage (recommended). You can find the
Instructions for the bin cage on page 10. You will need to put wood shavings on the bottom of the cage. Aspen bedding is recommended as it absorbs urine and odors wells. Cedar is not safe for small animals. Put 2-3 inches of bedding in the cage so the hamster has room to burrow. A water bottle and a food dish are needed as well as toys and a wheel for your hamsters entertainment. Hamsters also need a place to hide and sleep. You can make one out of a cardboard box, or buy one from a pet store

Food: Hamsters can eat either a commercial bag of pet store food or
rodent blocks. Hamsters also enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables for a treat. See the list below for fruits and vegetables hamsters can and cant eat.

Can eat

Seedless Apples
Bananas
Blackberries
Cranberries
Seedless Grapes
Peaches (without pit)
Plums (without pit)
Raspberries
Strawberries
Asparagus
Carrots
Clover
Sweet Corn
Celery
Green Beans
Lettuce
Cooked Peas

Cant eat

Almonds
Apple Seeds
Canned Fruits and Veggies
Potatoes
Candy
Chips
Eggplant
Avocado
Kidney Beans
Tomatoes
Tomato Leaves
Citrus Fruits
Watermelon
Pits of fruits
Onions
Leeks
Garlic
Chives