Keeping hamsters appropriately

In short: Hamsters are nocturnal loners that need a large enclosure with plenty of room to dig and run. Contrary to popular belief, they are not ideal pets for small children, as they are sensitive and nocturnal.

In more detail: Almost all hamster species are territorial and should be kept alone, as they often fight otherwise.

In detail

• Enclosure size: Much larger than the often-advertised small cages, an enclosure should have a floor area of at least 100x50 centimetres.
• Digging bedding: A deep layer of bedding allows natural digging behaviour and tunnel building.
• Exercise wheel: A sufficiently large, enclosed wheel without rungs prevents back damage and injuries.
• Nocturnal activity: Hamsters usually only become active in the evening, which limits interaction with children in the afternoon.
• Solitary keeping: Except for a few species such as dwarf hamsters, group housing often leads to stress and injuries.
• Diet: A mix of grains, vegetables, and occasional animal protein covers nutritional needs.
• Life expectancy: With usually only two to three years, hamsters have a short lifespan, which should be considered before acquiring one (kaninchen-und-meerschweinchen-halten, haustier-ernaehrung-und-giftige-lebensmittel).