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Hamster Adaptation to Habitat

Hamsters are originally from the Syrian region of the globe but have since spread worldwide in a handful of species commonly kept as pets. The Syrian, dwarf Russian and Chinese species are among the most prevalent. When you decide to bring a hamster into your home, you should develop a mindset toward recreating the hamster's favorite habitat and opportunities for exercise.

Cage
- A hamster appreciates an enclosure that's roomy yet stuffed with places to hide and tunnel. The 1/2-foot-long Syrians are solitary animals and should be kept by themselves; others are suitable to live in pairs, yet not of the opposite sex, which is likely to yield frequent, well-populated litters. Aquariums and wire cages are common enclosures, kept out of breezy or sunny areas. The structure can be as large as you have the time and money to stock with clean bedding.
Bedding
- At least 1 or 2 inches of bedding should line your hamster's home. Made of sawgrass, shredded paper, hay, tree shavings or manufactured pellets, this bedding will absorb waste and give your pet a useful material for burrowing and hiding. Try to pile up an extra amount of bedding in a rear corner when you first bring your hamster home. The animal will be more likely to choose this mounded area for a nest and pick another corner for the bathroom. Change the bedding at least weekly, especially in all the areas where your hamster has relieved itself.
Mealtime
- Part of a hamster's adaptation to a new habitat has to do with the types of food that will be available in its new home. In the wild, hamsters eat grains, seeds, nuts, vegetables, fruits and edible leaves. Equip your hamster home with adequate water in a dropper and a small bowl of the foods it likes. Most pet stores offer hamster food that contains a mixture of many of these foods. Supplement the animal's diet with fresh pieces of fruit or vegetables from your table. Some foods, however, may not agree with your pet, such as raw onions, beans, potatoes, chocolate or especially candy.
Working Out
- In their natural habitat, hamsters stay busy moving earth around and finding food. Special tubing systems can be purchased to give your hamster a well-designed home full of opportunities for redecorating. A common addition is the hamster wheel, which will feed your pet's instinctual need for a good workout. Let your hamster inspect its new surroundings with supervised visits outside its cage or within the confines of a clear hamster ball.

Animals & Science