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Siberian dwarf hamsters are also known as Russian hamsters. These pets are easy to care for. The first thing you will need for your new dwarf hamster is a cage. Because of their small size you will want a cage with small spaces between the bars or purchase an aquarium. Make sure the cage is designed to be escape-proof because these animals can fit through very small spaces and they are also notorious escape artists. You will also need to line the bottom of the cage with bedding.
You can use pine shavings or even recycled newspaper bedding. Do not use cedar because it's toxic to most small animals. Make sure there is enough bedding for the dwarf hamster to make a nest. You will also need a sturdy tip proof food bowl and a water bottle. For exercise you can put a wheel in the cage for the dwarf hamster to run on. It's recommended cleaning the cage at least once a week. When cleaning, dispose of all the used bedding. Replace the bedding and add fresh food after cleaning the cage.
Dwarf hamsters eat grains, seeds, vegetables and nuts. You can purchase a mix especially formulated for a hamster's nutritional need. You can offer fresh fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, apples, grapes, carrots and very small amounts of lettuce to supplement their diets. Fruit should be kept to a minimum because it can cause diarrhea.
Dwarf hamsters do not need bathing or grooming because they clean and groom themselves. It isn't recommended to bathe them because the dwarf hamster could catch a chill and then get sick. You'll always want to keep your dwarf hamster warm and dry.
The average life span of a hamster is around 2 ½ to 3 years. Because these animals age so quickly any dwarf hamster over a year of age is considered to be old and may even show signs of aging. When this happens it's time to take things easy. Playtime should be kept short because they tire out quicker than when they were younger.
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