I've had five hamsters total over the years, all at separate times. They're relatively easy to care for: daily food and water checks/changes, weekly cage cleanings, and complete cage breakdowns and scrubbings every month or 6 weeks.
From both working in a pet store and owning them myself, I've found that it's best to keep them separately, just to keep breeding and fighting a non-issue. I know some people can keep same-sex (usually female) pairs together without a problem, but they've usually had a large amount of experience with hamsters and their behavior.
Also, most of the cages out there aren't well made for hamsters (or other rodents). The Habitrail ones (with all the tubes and connectors) break easily, are hard to clean, and retain heat and humidity, which can be fatal.
They are nocturnal, which means they'll be active and making noise throughout the night. I've usually had to move them to a different room because they were so loud. They can get used to handling in the day, but it can take some work.
If you're looking for a friendly small rodent that enjoys being held and social interaction, I'd recommend a rat or two. They do need larger cages, but the smell is about the same, rats are harder to lose if they get away from you, and they are so much more friendlier than hamsters (in my personal opinion :) ).
If you have any specific questions, let me know :)
(no subject)
Date: 2006-04-11 09:50 pm (UTC)From both working in a pet store and owning them myself, I've found that it's best to keep them separately, just to keep breeding and fighting a non-issue. I know some people can keep same-sex (usually female) pairs together without a problem, but they've usually had a large amount of experience with hamsters and their behavior.
Also, most of the cages out there aren't well made for hamsters (or other rodents). The Habitrail ones (with all the tubes and connectors) break easily, are hard to clean, and retain heat and humidity, which can be fatal.
They are nocturnal, which means they'll be active and making noise throughout the night. I've usually had to move them to a different room because they were so loud. They can get used to handling in the day, but it can take some work.
If you're looking for a friendly small rodent that enjoys being held and social interaction, I'd recommend a rat or two. They do need larger cages, but the smell is about the same, rats are harder to lose if they get away from you, and they are so much more friendlier than hamsters (in my personal opinion :) ).
If you have any specific questions, let me know :)