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Related Articles & Questions
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Updated on June 19th, 2026
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Your Complete Syrian Hamster Care Guide: Food, Habitat & Health
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- Vet Q & A
Can I safely change my hamster's paper bedding to Timothy hay?
According to the Purdue University Veterinary school handout on hamsters, Timothy Hay can be used as bedding for hamsters. It will absorb some urine, but it does not control odors and will mold when wet. You can use it as a top dressing over a paper-like bedding, and change the hay every one to two days. The bedding underneath will have to be changed once a week. Fresh Timothy hay is best, as pre-packed hay bought in the pet store is dried to prevent molding, which makes it harder and less suitable for bedding. Marie can also nibble on the hay as a supplement.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Food & Nutrition
What do I need for a dwarf hamster? Cage, bedding, food & care tips?
Do not use an aquarium tank. A suitably sized (and secure) wire cage with a solid bottom is recommended. HabiTrail and Kaytee have excellent choices for cages. Buy the largest cage you can afford and fit in the chosen space. You can use recycled paper bedding such as CareFresh or Yesterday's News. Aspen shavings or pellets are also acceptable. Do not use pine or cedar shavings as these can be irritating. A commercial diet from Kaytee or VitaKraft can be fed from a ceramic bowl. A ceramic bowl prevents gnawing and tipping. A non chewable water bottle can be hung to provide fresh water daily. Other necessary items include chew toys and an exercise wheel. Find a veterinarian experienced in treating pocket pets and have your new addition examined to confirm good health. Feed, water and exercise daily. Clean the cage weekly. These little guys require very little care and can provide lots of entertainment. Congrats and enjoy!
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Food & Nutrition
New rabbit owner: What food, hay, cage, and nail/teeth care?
Oxbow has pellets and timothy hay in their product line. The majority of the diet should be timothy hay or similar grasses. Pellets should be limited to no more than a 1/2 cup daily. Alfalfa should not be offered after 7 months of age. Trim nails every 3-4 weeks if necessary. Your veterinarian can show you how initially. Teeth should be checked monthly. A yearly exam should include a dental exam and teeth trimming if indicated. Symptoms of overgrown teeth include decreased appetite, drooling, pawing at the mouth, swelling or discharge.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Food & Nutrition
What do gerbils eat and how do I provide the best care for them?
There is commercial gerbil food available at the pet store, they also need a water bottle and a warm enough environment. Their cage needs to be cleaned about twice a week at least and food needs to be provided twice a day.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Food & Nutrition
My hamster is sick and won't eat. What food can I syringe feed?
Yes, there is. I would recommend Oxbow Critical Care for Herbivores: http://www.oxbowanimalhealth.com/vets/products/critical_care There are good instructions on the label on how much to feed and how to mix it up. Hope this helps. Best wishes to you and Geri.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
