Hamsters are one of the most popular pets worldwide, with an estimated 20-25 million individuals being kept as pets in the United States alone. They are adorable, fluffy, and make fantastic companions, which is probably why they are so well-loved by people of all ages. However, there’s much more to these little creatures than meets the eye. In this article, we will explore the top 10 facts you probably didn’t know about hamsters.
1. Hamsters are nocturnal animals
Many people assume that hamsters are active during the day because they are frequently seen awake during daylight hours. In reality, hamsters are nocturnal animals, which means they are more active during the night and sleep during the day. You can often hear your hamster running on its wheel or playing with its toys in the middle of the night.
2. Hamsters love to hoard food
Hamsters are natural hoarders, which means they love to collect food and stash it away in their little dens. Wild hamsters hoard food to survive during the winter when food is scarce, but pet hamsters do it out of instinct. If you regularly clean your hamster’s cage, you might be surprised to find hidden stashes of food hidden away in corners.
3. Hamsters have a lifespan of 2-3 years
Unfortunately, hamsters have a relatively short lifespan compared to other pets. On average, they live for around 2-3 years, with the record for the oldest hamster ever recorded being four years old. If you’re considering getting a hamster as a pet, keep in mind that you will only have a few short years to enjoy their company.
4. Hamsters come in many different colors
Most people are familiar with the golden hamster, which is the most common type of pet hamster. However, hamsters come in many different colors and patterns, including black, white, grey, and even some with roan or tortoiseshell patterns. There are over 25 different species of hamsters, and they all have their unique characteristics and colorations.
5. Hamsters have poor eyesight but excellent hearing and sense of smell
While hamsters might look cute and curious, they have poor eyesight and rely heavily on their sense of hearing and smell to navigate their surroundings. That’s why it’s essential to speak to your hamster in a calm tone so that they can recognize your voice and avoid startling them suddenly.
6. Hamsters are excellent at escaping
Hamsters are tiny and can squeeze through small spaces, which means they are excellent at escaping from their cages. It’s essential to ensure that your hamster’s enclosure is secure and doesn’t have any gaps or holes that they can exploit. Some hamsters are clever enough to open their cage door, so make sure you have a secure mechanism to keep them inside.
7. Hamsters love to chew
Chewing is a natural behavior for hamsters and helps to keep their teeth healthy and trimmed. Giving your hamster plenty of chew toys and blocks is an excellent way to satisfy their chewing needs while also keeping them entertained.
8. Hamsters are agile and fast
Despite their small size, hamsters are incredibly agile and fast. They can run up to five miles per night in their exercise wheel, and some can even jump more than six inches in the air. That’s why it’s essential to provide a large, spacious exercise area to keep them healthy and happy.
9. Hamsters are excellent mothers
Female hamsters make great mothers and are fiercely protective of their young. They give birth to litters of around 4-12 babies and care for them diligently until they’re ready to leave the nest. If you’re thinking about breeding hamsters, make sure to do your research and have a plan in place before you start.
10. Hamsters can get lonely
Hamsters are social animals, and while they might be solitary in the wild, they can still get lonely in captivity. It’s essential to give your hamster plenty of companionship, either by getting them a same-sex cage mate or spending time with them regularly. Enrichment activities and toys can also help keep your hamster stimulated and happy.
In conclusion, hamsters are fascinating creatures with many unique traits and behaviors. Whether you’re a seasoned hamster owner or thinking about getting one for the first time, it’s essential to understand these facts and provide the best possible care for your furry friend.
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