Hamsters

Treats Pet shops now sell a range of treats for pet rodents, including hamsters. The best ones to use as treats are those that contain natural ingredients. Some can be hidden in their bedding, or hanging sticks and sprays of millet can be attached to the cage bars. Do not give your pet human chocolate, potato chips, or salted nuts as these are very harmful to hamsters and will make them ill. Pet shops sell special pet choco- late and yogurt drops. These should be given as extra special treats as they are not very healthy for your pet. Likewise treats that are covered in honey or sticky sweet coatings should only be given sparingly. Ham- sters can suffer from painful dental problems and also can get fat and suffer from heart disease or diabetes. A treat is a treat, not part of the hamster’s normal daily diet. Use them when you are playing with or training your hamster as a way to bond with him. How much? While it is normal for a hamster to hoard excess food, this hoard should not be large—if it is, you are feeding your pet too much. Weigh your pet regularly to make sure he is not putting on weight (once he is adult). If he is, then you are feeding it either too much, or, more likely, too many sugary treats.

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Hamsters