The Russian hamsteralso known as Siberian hamster or djungarian hamsterHamsters are small and adorable creatures that are particularly suitable for children, as they are much more docile than other hamster breeds. Although small, they have a lot of personality and are very affectionate. It is one of the most tame species in the hamster category. Would you like to choose a Russian hamster ? here is what you need to know about these small mammals.
Description of the Russian hamster
The Russian hamster is classified as a dwarf hamsters. If you are looking to identify it, here are its characteristics:
- it is very small: from 7 to 11 cm about
- it can weigh from 40 to 90 gramsIt is therefore particularly light
- The Russian hamster is very hairy, which makes it look like a pretty ball of hair despite a small bone structure and body.
- It can be grey or white (sapphire, pearl) in general and has a ray a little darker on the back
- Their body is rounded and they have a short tail.
- It has a soft and silky body
- Gestation lasts 21 days
- The male is generally larger than the female (read the article: what sex is my hamster)
Origins of the Russian hamster
The Russian hamster is a small species native to Central Asia, Siberia and Kazakhstan to be precise. It is thought to have arrived in Europe in the 1800s, when Russian merchants began importing them in large quantities. The first Russian hamsters were probably wild caught animals, but it is not known exactly when and how they were domesticated.
Behavior and character of the Russian hamster
Today, the Russian hamster is one of the most popular species of hamsters as a pet, due to its small sizeof its friendly character and its affordable price.
Russian hamsters are nocturnal animals and, in captivity, they generally sleep during the day. They are very active at night and like to play with their toys. They are also known to be very clean and not to make too much noise.
Russian hamsters are generally solitary animalsAlthough they can (sometimes) get along with other hamsters if properly introduced. Just don't put two male hamsters together - they might fight!
One could even say that Russian hamsters, even if a little shy, are animals very affectionateThey like to play and interact with their human owners much more than with other hamsters! They love to be stroked. If you want to adopt more than one, choose different cages that are as far apart as possible.
Are Russian hamsters friendly?
Russian hamsters are one of the most popular dwarf hamsters because they're so friendly. Once they get to know you, they can be very docile and friendly. Compared to their counterpart, the Roborovski, Russians are tiny little balls of sweetness. However, as with any hamster, being taken by surprise or rudely awakened can lead to biting.
How long does a Russian hamster live?
Like most dwarf hamsters, a Russian hamster lives on average 1.5 to 3 years. If raised in an ideal environment and well cared for, they can exceptionally live up to 3.5 years.
Some of them may live as little as 9 months. Because of their tiny size and rambunctious, energetic nature, these little companions are very vulnerable to being accidentally dropped or jumping out of hands. Genetics, quality of care and environment play an essential role in a hamster's longevity.
Food for Russian hamsters
The Russian hamster's diet must be balanced and varied to allow it to develop properly and stay healthy. It should include fresh vegetables and fruits, grains, seeds, nuts and insects.
Russian hamsters are generally very greedy and like to store their food in their cheeks. Feed them regularly and don't let them gorge themselves. They're a bit like children in fact?
If you want to offer your Russian hamster a balanced and varied diet, do not hesitate to offer him the following foods
- Fresh vegetables and fruits: carrots, apples, pears, etc.
- Cereals: bread, rice, pasta, etc.
- Seeds: sunflower, flax, etc.
- Nuts: hazelnuts, almonds, etc.
- Insects: crickets, larvae, etc.
Is the Russian hamster recommended for children?
Without any doubt, it is the most recommended breed for children because of the kindness of this little rodent. However, be careful with small children, who might tend to handle them without paying attention. Russian hamsters are fragile, and with their few grams they won't be able to hurt anyone!
Also good to know: the Russian hamster does not biteor in a very exceptional way.
Taking good care of a Russian hamster
Russian hamsters are very easy to care for. They don't need a special cage and can live in a standard cage for hamster. Russian hamsters need a safe and comfortable place to sleepand a cosy nest to hide in. They also need a safe place to store their food and fresh water.
Russian hamsters are very clean and tidy animals. do not need to be bathed. They groom themselves by licking their fur. Russian hamsters are very easy to train and get used to their owner easily. They are generally very affectionate with their family and like to be petted.
Russian hamsters are very easy to care for. The cage must be equipped :
- of a wheel so that the hamster can exercise
- of a nest so that he can rest
- of a watering hole so that he can drink
- of solid bars, because they are ofagile climbers.
Because of their inquisitive and exploratory nature, they should be given plenty of room to play.
Russian Hamster Care
Russian hamsters are very clean animals and do not do not require a bathIt's important to clean their cage regularly. They wash themselves regularly.
Where to buy a Russian hamster?
Buying a Russian hamster is easy if you know where to look. Most pet stores sell them, and you can also find them online, but we don't recommend it.
You can also find them in shelters, but you won't necessarily get the color (or breed) you want. The easiest way is to buy your hamster from a pet shop, or from a breeder if you have one near you.
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