Syrian Hamsters - Loner with a thirst for discovery
Species-appropriate husbandry – How to make them feel comfortable
A Home of Their Own
Syrian hamsters are solitary animals; they naturally live alone and do not tolerate other hamsters in their territory.
Ample Space for Exploration
The enclosure should be at least 100 × 50 × 50 cm. Tunnels, levels, climbing branches, and a spacious, secure run are ideal.
Guaranteed Digging Fun
A substrate of at least 20 cm deep – consisting of a mixture of bedding, hay, and straw – allows for the creation of tunnels and food chambers.
Daily Variety
A sand bath for fur care, soft nesting material, and a diverse range of enrichment activities are essential.
Cleanliness & Hygiene
🧼 Weekly replacement of parts
🧹 Thorough cleaning
Syrian hamsters are very clean and deliberately mark their food chambers and toilet areas. By cleaning carefully, you can support their natural rhythm without excessively disturbing their familiar environment.
Hygiene Routines
Urine corners and food storage areas should be checked and cleaned daily. This keeps the enclosure fresh and maintains the hamster’s natural rhythm.
Partial Renewal
A weekly change of half the substrate is sufficient. This preserves the familiar scent while ensuring proper hygiene for the hamster.
Carefully Thorough Cleaning
A complete cleaning is required every two weeks. Please check sleeping caves and nests carefully to avoid disturbing the hamster’s retreat.
Litter
Nutrition
🥦 Fresh vegetables
🥚 Animal protein
Syrian hamsters require a daily balanced mixture of specialized dry hamster food containing grains, seeds, and dried herbs. Small quantities of fresh vegetables and occasional animal protein (e.g., mealworms) are suitable as supplements. Fresh water must always be available.
Seeds as a Foundation
Syrian hamsters require daily dry food containing grains, seeds, and dried herbs. This mixture forms the foundation for a healthy diet.
Supplement with Vitamins
Small portions of vegetables such as cucumbers, fennel, or carrots provide variety. They supply essential vitamins and contribute to overall freshness.
Protein for Vitality
Occasional animal protein, such as mealworms, is important. It supports the hamster’s growth, vitality, and a robust immune system.
Activity
🏰 Tunnels & tubes
⛰️ Digging & climbing
Syrian hamsters love tunnels, tubes, nesting material, and safe running wheels with a solid running surface. Digging, climbing, and food hiding spots provide variety and promote natural behavior, even in limited spaces.
Active in the Running Wheel
A safe running wheel with a solid running surface is essential basic equipment. It promotes exercise and aligns with their natural running behavior.
Explore Hiding Spots
Tunnels, tubes, and nesting material provide exciting variety. They encourage hamsters’ natural curiosity and keep them active.
Digging Brings Joy
A deep substrate allows for the creation of tunnels and food chambers. Digging and climbing are species-appropriate activities that enhance well-being.
