Hamsters

Hamsters are small, cute pets that are fun to watch and hold. They are rodents, which means they are related to mice and rats. Hamsters are most active at night, which makes them nocturnal animals. They are popular pets because they are gentle and easy to care for.

Hamster Homes

Hamsters need a cage with soft bedding, a water bottle, and a running wheel. They love to exercise and can run up to 5 miles on their wheel in one night. Hamsters also like tunnels and hiding spots where they can sleep during the day.

Cheek Pouches

Hamsters have stretchy pouches in their cheeks. They use these pouches to carry food back to their nests. A hamster can stuff its cheeks with so much food that its head looks twice its normal size. In the wild, this helps them store food for later.

Fun Facts

• Hamsters can run backward just as fast as they run forward.
• A hamster's teeth never stop growing, so they need things to chew on.
• Baby hamsters are born blind, deaf, and without any fur.

Did You Know?

The word hamster comes from a German word meaning 'to hoard.' This makes sense because hamsters love to collect and store food!