--!>
--!>
There are various options for buying a new hamster. Pet shops are by far the most common place to go, but there are also specialist breeders, and also rescue centres which may take unwanted pets.
When choosing your hamster, do not be rushed in to making a decision. Look for a lively, inquisitive animal which looks healthy with bright clear eyes, smooth fur, a clear nose and dry tail. If you are buying a Syrian hamster, the sex does not really matter as they must be kept separately, but if buying a dwarf hamster, ensure that all the hamsters who will be housed together are of the same sex. Many pet shops will not guarantee the sex of their animals, so it may be worth having them checked over by a vet to avoid the risk of unwanted youngsters.
Young hamsters are very nervous and may bite if scared. To avoid this, use slow movements and quiet voices. Offer your hamster a titbit to help him feel more comfortable.
When taking your hamster home, ensure that his transport carrier is secure. They are very adept at chewing through cardboard boxes so taking your cage with you may be a better option. Once home, leave your hamster in his cage to explore and resist the temptation to try and handle him. Leave him in a quiet room and he will settle down fairly quickly.
For the first few days, get the hamster used to your family by offering him titbits through the bars or on the palm of your hand with your hand inside the cage. When your hamster seems comfortable with your hand, you can try to pick him up. Avoid sudden movements. You can either scoop the hamster up in the palm of your hands or pick him up from above with your hand firmly supporting him. Put him down on a firm surface as soon as possible to prevent wriggling. The hamster will be happy sitting on its owner for a while but be careful that it does not escape. Plastic balls are available to give your hamster some safe exercise on the floor. Children and other pets should be supervised whilst the hamster is running around to avoid injury.
The information provided on this website is provided for guidance only. No responsibility is accepted for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in the site content. Reference to any organisation or person in this website, or any site that it is linked to, does not indicate any form of endorsement. PetsLove does not take responsibility or accept liability for any loss or damage resulting from using this website and its content or any other site that it is linked to.
This website uses Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google, Inc. (“Google”). Google Analytics uses “cookies”, which are text files placed on your computer, to help the website analyze how users use the site. The information generated by the cookie about your use of the website (including your IP address) will be transmitted to and stored by Google on servers in the United States . Google will use this information for the purpose of evaluating your use of the website, compiling reports on website activity for website operators and providing other services relating to website activity and internet usage. Google may also transfer this information to third parties where required to do so by law, or where such third parties process the information on Google's behalf. Google will not associate your IP address with any other data held by Google. You may refuse the use of cookies by selecting the appropriate settings on your browser, however please note that if you do this you may not be ble to use the full functionality of this website. By using this website, you consent to the processing of data about you by Google in the manner and for the purposes set out above.
PetsLove © 2006-2008
Any comments send to webmaster@petslove.co.uk
