Caring for a Roborovski Hamster

1 Roborovski Hamster: Selection, Housing and Feeding

I. Choose a Healthy Roborovski

1. A healthy one moves nimbly and walks fast; stiffness or wobbling signals limb disease or deformity.

2. Hamsters get lonely alone, so keep a pair for company and warmth in winter.

3. Unhealthy signs: heavy eye/nose discharge; a persistently wet tail or stool and dirt near the anus; dull, lifeless coat; deformed limbs; missing ears or other parts.

II. Pick a Proper Cage

An acrylic cage holds heat better, which suits this small hamster.

III. Feed Correctly

1. Roborovskis are omnivores and can eat insects, vegetables, seeds, dried fruit, grains and plants in moderation — but some (loquat, peach, fern) can cause heart paralysis or breathing trouble, and spicy food can too. Avoid these.

2. They are nocturnal; feed around 7 p.m., once a day, about 10 g of food.

3. They are shy, so after bringing one home give it time to adjust to the new environment.

4. The ideal temperature is 20–28°C. In hot summers cool it down (air-conditioned room at about 25°C if needed); in winter keep it warm.

5. Build trust by offering sunflower seeds through the bars so it slowly relies on and bonds with you.

IV. Disease Prevention

1. Prevent cheek-pouch inflammation: food stored too long in the pouches can rot and inflame them. Check regularly and flush the pouch with a feeding syringe if needed.

2. Clean the scent gland (on the belly of males, strong-smelling in estrus) with a disinfectant swab to reduce odor. Wet tail and skin disease are also common — take preventive measures routinely.