Caring for Grandma's Hamster: Essential Tips & Guide
1. The grandmother hamster boasts a lighter fur color compared to her husband, with her entire coat being a near uniform shade, predominantly white. Her whiskers and eyebrows are also a pristine white, contrasting with the husband's hamster, which has white whiskers and eyebrows but a yellowish coat elsewhere.
2. The grandmother hamster is notably petite and naturally shy, making it challenging for her to bond with humans. However, she has a higher tolerance for living in a cage with another of her kind. Unfortunately, due to a decreasing breeding rate, the grandmother hamster is becoming increasingly rare.
3. Upon bringing the grandmother hamster home, it's crucial not to rush to touch her. Instead, place her in a quiet corner of the room to shield her from harsh light. Allow her some time to acclimate to her new environment before attempting to interact. If she remains unresponsive, don't force the interaction. Consider getting another hamster, perhaps a male counterpart, to provide companionship.
4. To win the affection of a particularly timid grandmother hamster, handfeeding is a triedandtrue method. Simply place some of her favorite treats in your hand and position it near the cage opening. Once she catches the scent of the food, she may venture onto your hand to eat. Initially, avoid disturbing her while she eats, but once she's comfortable with the routine, you can gradually introduce more interaction.
5. Both grandparent hamsters have oily skin, so providing a bathing area with bath sand is essential for maintaining their cleanliness. Opt for bath sand suitable for guinea pigs, as its finer particles offer superior cleaning capabilities.
Grandparent hamsters are a popular choice for their small size and attractive appearance. However, if you're looking for a more interactive pet, it might be best to avoid these reclusive creatures. They tend to be on the reserved side, preferring a quieter life.