Table Of Contents

Quick Profile

Height

2 - 4 inches

Weight

0.06 - 0.13 pounds

Lifespan

1.50 - 3 years

Environment

Cage

Personality

agile, curious , fast , social (with their own species)

Activity Level

Active

Affection Level

Moderately Affectionate

Handleable

Yes

Coexist

Yes

Hypoallergenic

No

Sheds

Yes

Travel Friendly

No

Child Friendly

No

Difficulty - Easy

Cost

  • These hamsters are generally inexpensive to keep, with moderate initial setup costs and ongoing expenses.

Time

  • Campbell's dwarf hamsters require moderate care, typically 3-5 hours per week, which aligns with the "Easy" category. With a relatively short lifespan of 2-3 years, they don't require a long-term commitment

Knowledge

  • While some basic understanding of hamster care is necessary, it doesn't require extensive specialized knowledge. Their small size (2-4 inches) makes them easier to handle and house compared to larger pets. They are mostly nocturnal, which means they don't require constant attention during the day. While they can develop some health issues, they are generally hardy animals with few complex medical needs.

Maintenance

  • They need regular cage cleaning and feeding, but grooming requirements are minimal. Unlike some pets, they can be kept alone or in same-sex pairs, providing flexibility in care. Their dietary needs are straightforward, primarily consisting of commercial hamster food and occasional treats.

Guide

  • Think of your hamster as a tiny real estate mogul – they need at least 450 square inches of floor space. That's like a hamster mansion!
  • Opt for a cage with horizontal bars spaced no more than 1/4 inch apart. We don't want any Houdini hamsters escaping!
  • Provide a minimum of 6 inches of bedding depth. Your little burrower will thank you for their subterranean paradise.
  • Keep the temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). No one likes a sweaty hamster!
  • Humidity should be around 40-60%. Think tropical vacation, minus the coconut drinks.
  • Add a solid-surface wheel at least 8 inches in diameter. It's like a hamster treadmill, but way more fun.
  • Include hiding spots, tunnels, and chew toys. It's basically a hamster theme park in there!
  • Feed a high-quality commercial hamster mix as the main diet. About 1-2 tablespoons per day should do the trick.
  • Supplement with fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and leafy greens. Think of it as hamster salad bar night!
  • Offer protein sources like mealworms or boiled egg once a week. It's like date night for your hamster's taste buds.
  • Always provide fresh water in a bottle or shallow dish. Hydration is key – we don't want any raisin-like hamsters!
  • Avoid sugary treats and human junk food. Your hamster doesn't need a dad bod.
  • Sand baths are a hamster's version of a spa day. Provide a shallow dish of chinchilla sand 2-3 times a week.
  • Brush your hamster's fur gently with a soft toothbrush if needed. It's like a tiny massage for them!
  • Trim nails if they get too long, but be careful! No one wants a hamster manicure gone wrong.
  • Clean the cage thoroughly once a week. It's like spring cleaning, but 52 times a year!
  • Spot clean daily to remove wet spots and droppings. Think of yourself as a hamster housekeeper.
  • Provide an exercise wheel that's at least 8 inches in diameter. It's hamster cardio time!
  • Offer a variety of chew toys to keep those ever-growing teeth in check. It's like a hamster dental plan.
  • Create a maze with cardboard tubes. It's a hamster obstacle course!
  • Hide treats around the cage for foraging fun. It's like an Easter egg hunt every day!
  • Allow supervised playtime outside the cage in a hamster-proof area. Freedom!
  • Care Tips
    • Find an exotic vet who knows their hamster stuff. Not all vets are created equal in the hamster world!
    • Watch for signs of illness like lethargy, loss of appetite, or wet tail. Nobody likes a sick hamster.
    • Check for overgrown teeth regularly. We're aiming for hamster smiles, not hamster fangs.
    • Keep an eye out for lumps, bumps, or changes in behavior. You're basically a hamster detective.
    • Consider getting pet insurance. Yes, it exists for hamsters too!
  • Illnesses To Look Out For
    • Diabetes
      • A metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. Campbell's Dwarf Hamsters are particularly susceptible to this condition, which can manifest as increased thirst and more frequent urination.
    • Wet Tail
      • A severe form of diarrhea that can be life-threatening if left untreated. This condition causes the hamster's tail area to become wet and matted, and is often accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, and dehydration.
    • Glaucoma
      • An eye condition that affects the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss. While there is no cure, veterinary treatment can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
    • Tyzzer's Disease
      • A bacterial infection that can be fatal if not treated promptly. This highly contagious illness is often stress-induced and may cause symptoms such as lethargy, unkempt fur, and diarrhea.
    • Congestive Heart Failure
      • A cardiovascular condition typically seen in older hamsters, where the heart becomes weakened and unable to pump blood efficiently. Symptoms may include fatigue, difficulty breathing, and swelling in the abdomen due to fluid retention.
  • Start handling your hamster gently for short periods daily. Patience is key – Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither was a friendly hamster.
  • Use treats to encourage positive interactions. It's like hamster bribery, but in a good way!
  • Speak softly and move slowly around your hamster. No one likes a loud, clumsy giant.
  • Respect your hamster's sleep schedule. They're nocturnal, so late-night bonding sessions are best.
  • Never punish your hamster. Positive reinforcement is the way to go!