Hamster Chinese - Dwarfish But Not a Dwarf

The Chinese hamster - otherwise known as the striped hamster - is not really a true dwarf hamster but simply a tiny hamster. Their life span is normally two to three years, and they have a slim body that reaches about 4 inches in length. The tiny frame of their body will enable them to squeeze through the small openings of a wire cage, which is why it is recommended that Chinese hamsters be kept in glass aquariums that are escape proof.

Like all hamsters, the Chinese hamster is nocturnal; however, there is a short period during the day when they may be active and awake. Chinese hamsters rarely nip and are generally timid and good natured. Their small size can be a bit challenging to handle, especially for children. Because they are so active, they require a big cage; they move a lot and should be provided with ample space.

Females may become quite aggressive and assertive as they grow older and they should be separated from the males. However, some pet owners manage to curb this poor attitude and keep them in groups. It is advisable to keep your Chinese hamsters in separately when they are very young, only putting them together when you are certain there will be no aggression at all.

The Chinese hamster's hair is banded with dark and light colors, dark brown in the back and black on the dorsal spine, and sometimes a spot in their white fur appears. They have one-inch long hairless tails, which makes them rather rat-like or mouse-like in appearance and sets them apart from ordinary hamsters. Chinese hamsters often have no control over their bladder, and can urinate everywhere, including your hands when you are holding them.

Chinese hamsters require no special care; treat them as you would any other ordinary hamster. However, pay particular attention to their size in relation to the possibility of escaping a wired cage. As with the other breeds of hamsters, their cage should always be kept clean and dry. As much as possible avoid pine wood or cedar shavings. These types of shavings contain harmful oils and minerals that may pose a danger to your pet. Accumulated hamster urine may produce an ammonia build-up and may cause disease among your pets.

Years ago, Chinese hamsters were used as laboratory animals for experiments and medical use until rats and mice replaced them for the purpose. However, there are still biotech companies who are using Chinese hamsters for their experiments. The state of California regards the Chinese hamsters as a pest and therefore they require a permit to own and breed them. On the other hand, the state of New Jersey considers the Chinese hamsters an exotic animal, and requires the owner to acquire a special permit to keep them.

Russ Fleederman is a dwarf hamster expert. For more great information on the hamster Chinese and a FREE dwarf hamster mini-course, visit http://www.dwarf-hamster.com.

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