Burgess Pet Care

Hamsters make fantastic family pets.  If you own or are considering owning a hamster here are a few things you ought to consider…

Species

The most common species kept as a pet in the UK is the Syrian hamster.  The Syrian hamster is the largest hamster and can be found in a variety of colours and coat patterns. When the Syrian hamster reaches adulthood he will measure between 4-6 inches in length. Syrian hamsters are not usually social creatures and the general advice is to not house more than one in a cage. If you force two or more Syrian hamsters together they will probably fight (with quite serious consequences).

If you would like to keep more than one hamster then you should consider the Dwarf spices, although make sure they are of the same sex because Dwarf hamsters can become sexually mature from four weeks old.

Housing

The ideal housing for a hamster is a cage, although modular plastic houses with lots of rooms and tunnels are becoming more popular and actually give the hamster more spaces to explore.  The RSPCA recommends a house of 75 x 40 x 40cm as a minimum requirement and advises that it should be made as stimulating as possible. It is important to consider the species of hamster before buying the housing as the needs vary. Syrian hamsters can easily get stuck in tunnels which are too small for them (usually found in a cage intended for Dwarf hamsters).

Food

Feeding your hamster is easy, but you should be aware that your hamster (either Syrian or Dwarf) is an omnivore. This means they require protein in their diet in order to stay healthy. Because hamsters would eat grasses, grains and insects in the wild Burgess Pet Care’s hamster food, Supahamster Harvest, contains whole dried mealworms, wholesome grains, peanuts and pumpkin seeds (in addition to other nutritious ingredients). There are two types of food available within this range, Syrian Hamster Food and Dwarf Hamster Food. Water should always be provided.

A hamster really does make a super family pet, but remember he relies heavily on the care provided by his owner, so it is down to you to ensure you provide adequate housing, food and care.

Did you know that in the wild, the Syrian Hamster is an omnivore? This means that he will happily munch on grass, seeds, plant roots and the occasional creepy-crawly. Burgess Supahamster Harvest is the ideal replacement for your pet hamster. Supahamster Harvest is a complete hamster food packed full of grains, nuts and whole, dried mealworms which deliver essential animal protein. Your pet hamster will need solid food from as young as 7 days old.

Feeding your Syrian Hamster

Provide fresh food every day. Aim to feed around a tablespoon each day, which ideally should be served at your hamster’s breakfast time, usually when he wakes in the evening. Pour the food into a ceramic dish – ceramic is usually more stable and gnaw proof than plastic. Offer fresh water each day from a water bottle.

Hamster Treats and Snacks

For a treat, why not offer your hamster Burgess Excel Nature Snacks or Burgess Supanibbles. Hide them around the cage so he has to forage, just like he would in the wild. This will prevent boredom and help to make your hamster happy.