Stay away from raw beans, apple seeds, sprouting potato buds, parsley, and green parts of tomatoes all foods that can be poisonous to hamsters. In their native territories, hamsters have to travel great distances to find food, a fact that explains domestic hamsters' need for lots of exercise. Exercise wheels can provide hamsters with a good bit of activity, but they should not be the only source of physical activity. Wooden ladders and branches fastened securely to the inside of the tank can help hamsters show off their climbing agility. Be sure to clean out the hamster's bathroom space every day.
Hamsters like to amass treasure chests of tidbits, so check for stockpiles of perishable food.
Change all the bedding twice a week, disinfecting the tank and letting it dry before laying down fresh bedding and replacing the hamster's chewing, nesting, and climbing toys. If you must remove a hamster to clean her tank, you can hold a small box near her and she will probably run right in. When handling a hamster, always hold her over a surface such as a tabletop in case she manages to wriggle her way out of your hands. The Learning Network Inc. All rights reserved. Inc. All Rights Reserved.