Syrian Hamster

Syrian Hamsters or Golden Hamsters are hardy creatures that come from the semi-desert region of Syria. The name "Hamster" is derived from a german word that means “hoard.” This word fits them very well because this is what they do with the extra food. The habit of store a lot of food in their cheek pouches enabled them to carry food back to their nest and saved for a snack later on. Golden Hamsters are popularly kept as pets and used as scientific research animals throughout the world.

Originally, Syrian Hamsters came in just one color, but a mixture of colors like black, brown, and gold gave them their "golden" nickname. However, it has been some pattern mutations to extend the variety of colors including cream, white, cinnamon and three different shades of gray. The size of an adult Hamster goes from 5 to 7 in (13 to 18 cm) long, with a lifespan of two to three years.

The Syrian Hamster is one of the most popular pets due to their small size and cuteness. However, these little buddies are not recommended as a pet for young children. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests hamsters as pets only for children 10 years or older under the supervision of an adult.

If you are thinking of getting a Syrian Hamster as a pet, you have to prepare your house for the new member. Some of the things you have to do are:

• Buy a comfortable and enjoyable cage for your Hamster, providing a variety of toys to keep it entertained.
• Because, they are very energetic a running wheel and cardboard tubes are excellent for them to exercise.
• Make sure to keep in the cage some absorbent bedding such as shredded paper or timothy hay, and also a small box with an entrance hole, since they love to sleep inside enclosed spaces.
• Hamsters are messy by nature. So, remember to give it small pieces of paper towel or napkin to shred and make a nest.
• Provide to your Hamster a healthy diet that should contain a mix of seeds, grains, cracked corn, lettuce, carrots, and spinach.
• Fresh water should be available all the time; using an inverted bottle with a drinking tube.

Once you have everything set up for your Hamster, Bring it home! Let him play outside of the cage for a little while in an enclosed area and removing any electrical wires from the area. This will be a fun and free way for you curious little pet to know his new home.