Congratulations on your upcoming addition! Hamsters can make wonderful pets. How much one will cost depends on where you live. In the United States, hamsters tend to cost around $10, but sometimes if you buy the supplies (cage, water bottle, food, etc.) as a package deal, the pet store will include a free hamster with them. Call around to pet stores in your area and they will let you know what's available.
You're correct about needing a cage, food, toys, water bottle and some treats, but don't forget bedding material. You'll need something to cover the bottom of the cage, and something for your pet to make a nest out of. These materials are available at pet stores.
As far as helping your new pet to live a long and happy life, there are a few things to keep in mind. Keeping his cage clean and making sure that he always has fresh food and clean water available is very important. Exercise is also important...and since hamsters are nocturnal (they are active at night and prefer to sleep during daylight hours...and it's important for their health that they be allowed to sleep during this time), you should provide something for him or her to do while you are asleep. There are small exercise wheels made specifically for this purpose. Of course you'll want to play with your pet as well, and this can provide a chance for some more physical activity. You might also consider getting a second hamster so that they can play together...and also provide companionship for each other when you're away from the house or asleep. Friends help all kinds of creatures live longer, happier lives!
Probably the most important part of helping your hamster live a long life is keeping him or her safe. Make sure the cage is secure and can't be knocked over or off of whatever it will be sitting on. Don't allow your hamster to run around unattended (using a clear plastic hamster ball to let your pet exercise outside of the cage makes it easier to keep track of the little guy...they can move quickly!), and be sure that other household pets (cats, dogs, etc.) are kept away from the hamster.
The more you know about your furry little friend, the more the two of you will enjoy each other! You can start by visiting this site for more information: www.thehamstersite.com. You can also find other informative sites by searching for "hamster information" on Google or another search engine.
Enjoy your new friend!
You're correct about needing a cage, food, toys, water bottle and some treats, but don't forget bedding material. You'll need something to cover the bottom of the cage, and something for your pet to make a nest out of. These materials are available at pet stores.
As far as helping your new pet to live a long and happy life, there are a few things to keep in mind. Keeping his cage clean and making sure that he always has fresh food and clean water available is very important. Exercise is also important...and since hamsters are nocturnal (they are active at night and prefer to sleep during daylight hours...and it's important for their health that they be allowed to sleep during this time), you should provide something for him or her to do while you are asleep. There are small exercise wheels made specifically for this purpose. Of course you'll want to play with your pet as well, and this can provide a chance for some more physical activity. You might also consider getting a second hamster so that they can play together...and also provide companionship for each other when you're away from the house or asleep. Friends help all kinds of creatures live longer, happier lives!
Probably the most important part of helping your hamster live a long life is keeping him or her safe. Make sure the cage is secure and can't be knocked over or off of whatever it will be sitting on. Don't allow your hamster to run around unattended (using a clear plastic hamster ball to let your pet exercise outside of the cage makes it easier to keep track of the little guy...they can move quickly!), and be sure that other household pets (cats, dogs, etc.) are kept away from the hamster.
The more you know about your furry little friend, the more the two of you will enjoy each other! You can start by visiting this site for more information: www.thehamstersite.com. You can also find other informative sites by searching for "hamster information" on Google or another search engine.
Enjoy your new friend!
