Golden Hamster

Golden Hamster, also known as Syrian Hamster, is a medium-sized hamster in taxonomy. Like many other hamsters, the Golden Hamster has a blunt snout, relatively small eyes, large ears and a short tail measuring about 1.5 centimeters. The adult weight of the Golden Hamster ranges from 100 to 125 grams. Its body length (from nose to tail base) is 120-165mm, tail length is 13-15mm, hind foot length is 19mm, and ear length is 21-22mm. They are noticeably smaller than the original hamsters from Eastern Europe and West Asia, but larger than the Roborovski Desert Hamsters from China and Mongolia. Like many other hamsters, the Golden Hamster has a blunt snout, relatively small eyes, large ears and a short (1.5 centimeters) tail.

As a pet and research animal, it is distributed worldwide. The main distribution area of the wild population is the fertile and densely populated Alpiña Plateau in Syria, at an altitude of 280-380 meters. Golden Hamsters are temperate terrestrial nocturnal omnivorous animals, feeding on crops and insects, mainly existing in arable land of annual crops. The average wild lifespan is 1-2 years, and the average captive lifespan is 2-4 years.

Golden Hamsters are suitable for everyone to raise. Golden Hamsters are very suitable for family raising because they have a very gentle temperament and are very active when they are with their owners. Golden Hamsters have a strong adaptability and can grow very well in any place.

1. Tumor

Pet symptoms: When touching the pet, there is a noticeable bulge in a certain part of the pet's body, and over time, the bulge becomes larger and larger.

Just like humans, hamsters can develop tumors when their body cells are abnormal, and they can be classified as benign or malignant tumors. When a tumor is found in a hamster's body, a tissue biopsy should be performed to determine the nature of the tumor. If the tumor is malignant, surgery is required. However, even after the surgery, there is still a chance that the malignant cells will spread to other parts of the body, causing tumor metastasis and recurrence.

2. Skin disease

Pet symptoms: Hamsters may experience hair loss, scratching, redness and shedding of the skin.

First, it is necessary to keep the environment clean and dry, actively consult a pet doctor, and seek good medical advice. Finally, relevant examinations such as skin microscopy should be performed on the pet to determine the skin problem and then apply corresponding medications.

3. Heart disease

Pet symptoms: Loss of appetite, poor mobility, and difficulty breathing.

If a hamster shows the above symptoms, it may be suspected of having heart disease. It is advisable to consult a pet doctor and undergo detailed examinations based on professional advice. For example, an X-ray examination can be done to observe whether there is ventricular hypertrophy and other diseases. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, in order to stabilize the condition, treatment with cardiotonic agents and vasodilators may be administered.

4. Malocclusion

Symptoms: Drooling, inability to close the mouth completely, loss of appetite, etc.

Suggested treatment: To prevent malocclusion in hamsters, frequently provide them with harder food or mineral stones to chew on. If malocclusion is found in a hamster, it should be taken to a veterinarian to have its teeth filed down.

5. Constipation

Pet symptoms: Significant decrease in bowel movements, or even no bowel movements.

When the pet's living environment changes, hamsters may experience constipation. In addition, hamsters may also develop constipation due to bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.

Firstly, the cage should be kept clean. Secondly, the pet should be given fresh and fibrous food, and enough water should be provided. Under the guidance and advice of a professional veterinarian, medication should be used accordingly. In severe cases, prompt medical attention and treatment are required.

6. Cold

Pet symptoms: Drooping ears, lethargy, wet nose, and reduced activity.

If a hamster catches a cold, it should be treated as soon as possible. If the problem is not serious, some anti-inflammatory drugs can be used for treatment. However, the dosage must be controlled. Cold in hamsters can be prevented by feeding them foods rich in vitamin C on a regular basis and taking appropriate measures to keep them warm. The cage should not be placed in a windy area.

Cage with a bottom area larger than 0.5m2.

Provide multiple hiding places, with materials such as paper or wood.

The thickness of the bedding should not be less than 20cm, and the nesting material should be soft, including dust-free wood shavings, straw, etc.

For Syrian hamsters, the diameter of the exercise wheel should be larger than 30cm, and the appropriate exercise wheel should have a closed running surface.

If using a glass or plastic cage, make sure to keep the top open for ventilation.

Clean the wet bedding, food bowl, and water drinker daily, and clean the entire cage monthly, but it is recommended to leave some old bedding for the hamster to adapt to the scent.

For Golden Hamsters, clean the entire cage every 14 days and take them out for regular exercise (supervised).

A solitary animal that can only be kept alone.

The caregiver should regularly clean the cage for the Golden Hamster and change the bedding frequently to keep the area clean. When the temperature is low, it is important to keep the hamster warm. Placing wood chips in a plastic box becomes a convenient spot for it, and the wood chips should be taken out and cleaned daily, with appropriate replacements.