Hamster

Breed: Hamster
Scientific name: Mesocricetus auratus (Syrian)
Place of Origin: Syria
Classification: Rodent
Average Price: R100 - R250

Size Category: small
Avg. Height: 15 cm.
Avg. Weight: 0.1 to 0.15 Kg.
Avg. Lifespan: 2 to 3 years.

Colours:
Golden (wild type), white, black, cream, banded, and tortoiseshell.

Covering:
fur

Vocalisation level:
quiet

Temprament:
Nocturnal and strictly solitary. Can be tamed with gentle, consistent handling but are often grumpy if woken up.

Trainability:
difficult

Diet type: omnivore
Feeding frequency: Once a day (in the evening).

Foods to avoid:
Sugary treats, citrus fruits, almonds, onions.

Health Concerns:
Prone to wet tail (a serious intestinal disease), tumors, and dental problems.

Recommended Supplements:
A good quality hamster mix provides all necessary nutrients.

Grooming:
Self-grooming. A sand bath can be provided for enrichment.

Exercise:
Very active at night; requires a large cage with a solid-surface wheel (not wire) and deep bedding for burrowing.

Handling:
Can nip or bite if startled, scared, or woken from sleep.
Ideal Location:
Nationwide, as they are kept exclusively indoors in cages.

Space Requirements:
Requires a large cage with deep (15cm+) bedding to allow for natural burrowing behaviour.

Climate Suitability: temperate

Temperature Range: Standard indoor room temperature (18-24°C).

Humidity Range: Adaptable