Are you unsure how to properly care for your new hamster? It’s easy to assume you’re doing everything correctly, yet many new hamster owners make unintentional blunders that might harm their pet’s health and enjoyment.

Hamsters are quite expensive, so you need to have the right knowledge to take care of them.

From cage design to nourishment, these little creatures need more than just basic care to survive. In this piece, we’ll go over the most common mistakes that first-time hamster owners make and how to avoid them, so your furry companion can stay healthy, active, and happy.

12 Common Mistakes New Hamster Owners Make

1. Choosing the Wrong Cage

When it comes to hamster housing, bigger is always better. A small cage might seem like a good idea, but hamsters need a lot of space to stay happy and healthy. They love to explore, burrow, and create little nests. A hamster cage that’s too small can lead to stress and a bored hamster.

Aim for a cage with a large floor space (at least 450 square inches). Also, avoid cages with wire flooring—hamsters’ feet are delicate, and wire floors can cause injuries. A spacious cage with solid sides, good ventilation, and plenty of space for them to move around is ideal.

Is AC bad for hamsters?

Air conditioning (AC) is not intrinsically harmful to hamsters, but it can be if the temperature is too low or varies too frequently. Hamsters are susceptible to harsh temperatures. Ideally, the temperature should be regulated between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C). If the AC makes the room overly cold or drafts them, it may induce stress or illness. Simply keep their cage in a secure, warm spot away from direct cold air from the AC unit.

2. Forgetting to Research the Breed

Did you know that not all hamsters are the same? Syrian hamsters are solitary creatures and need to be housed alone, while dwarf hamsters can sometimes live in pairs (if introduced properly). Syrian hamsters are also larger, so they need more space.

Dwarf hamsters, on the other hand, are smaller and a bit more energetic, so they may need extra stimulation. By understanding your hamster’s breed, you can better meet their specific needs, whether that’s giving them plenty of space to roam or ensuring they have the right type of food and social setup.

3. Using the Wrong Bedding

Many commercial bedding options, like cedar or pine shavings, contain natural oils that can irritate a hamster’s respiratory system. This is especially concerning because hamsters’ lungs are delicate, and breathing in these oils can cause them to get sick.

Instead, opt for bedding made from paper or aspen. These options are both soft and absorbent, making them safer and more comfortable for your hamster. Plus, they allow your hamster to burrow, which is something they love to do! Make sure you also change the bedding regularly to maintain a clean environment.

4. Feeding the Same Old Seed Mix

Many hamster owners feed their pets a basic seed mix, but this isn’t the best option for them. Seeds can be high in fat and low in nutrients, leading to an imbalanced diet. Hamsters need a diet that’s rich in fiber and protein, which they can get from a variety of foods.

The best way to ensure they’re getting a balanced diet is to feed them high-quality hamster pellets. These pellets contain all the essential nutrients hamsters need. You can supplement their diet with fresh vegetables like carrots, spinach, or cucumber, and occasionally give them small pieces of fruit (like apples or berries) as a treat. Just be sure to avoid sugary or acidic foods, as these can upset their stomachs.

5. Handling Too Soon

Hamsters are naturally shy and need time to adjust to their new environment. If you start picking them up and handling them right away, it could stress them out. Give them a few days to settle into their cage and get comfortable with their surroundings.

Once they’re settled, you can begin offering them small treats from your hand to build trust. Start with gentle interactions—hold them for short periods, and always support their body to make them feel secure. Over time, they’ll get used to being handled, and your bond will grow.

6. Skipping Toys and Fun

Hamsters are curious, active little creatures that love to explore and play. Without toys, tunnels, or activities, they can become bored and stressed. A hamster’s boredom can lead to destructive behavior, like chewing on the cage bars or pacing endlessly.

Make sure their cage is full of enrichment items like a hamster wheel for exercise, chew toys for their teeth, and tunnels for hiding and exploring. Giving them these items will keep their minds sharp and their bodies active. It also helps them stay happy and healthy!

How do I know if my new hamster is happy?

A happy hamster will show signs of activity, curiosity, and playfulness, especially at night. They will enjoy running on their wheel, exploring their cage, and playing with their toys. Their fur should be bright and clean, and they will consume food and water on a regular basis. A happy hamster will respond to gentle handling by gradually becoming more at ease with you. If they appear lethargic, avoid eating, or do not move much, this could indicate stress or disease.

7. Neglecting Water Changes

Water is a basic need that’s often overlooked. It might seem like a simple thing, but having access to clean, fresh water every day is crucial for your hamster. Hamsters are prone to dehydration, especially if they’re not drinking enough water or if the water bottle gets clogged.

Check the water bottle daily to ensure it’s working properly, and refill it with fresh water regularly. If you’re using a water bowl, clean it out every day and make sure it’s always filled with fresh water. It’s a small thing, but it makes a huge difference in your hamster’s health.

8. Missing Health Warnings

Hamsters are great at hiding illness because, in the wild, they need to avoid looking vulnerable to predators. However, as a responsible owner, you need to watch for signs of sickness. If your hamster starts acting unusually (like becoming lethargic, refusing to eat, or losing weight), it’s time to take them to the vet.

Other signs of illness might include discharge from their nose or eyes, abnormal breathing, or hair loss. The sooner you notice these changes, the faster you can get them help, so it’s important to keep an eye on their behavior and physical condition.

9. Forgetting Cage Cleaning

Just like any pet, hamsters need a clean living space. A dirty cage can lead to bacteria buildup and health issues for your hamster. Make it a habit to spot clean the cage daily by removing any soiled bedding, leftover food, and dirty water.

Once a week, perform a more thorough cleaning by replacing most of the bedding and wiping down the cage with a pet-safe cleaner. Always keep a small amount of old bedding in the cage to maintain your hamster’s familiar scent. This helps them feel comfortable and reduces stress.

Read More: 20 Amazing Facts About Hamsters You Didn’t Know

10. Waking Them Up During the Day

Hamsters are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the evening and night. If you try to wake them up during the day, it can cause stress and irritability. Respect your hamster’s sleep schedule—let them rest during the day and plan their playtime for the evening when they’re naturally more active. This will help them feel safe and content in their environment.

11. Overfeeding Your Hamster

It’s easy to make mistake thinking that giving your hamster extra food means they’ll be happier, but overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems. Feed your hamster a healthy diet, stick to a balanced diet with appropriate portions of pellets, fresh veggies, and occasional treats. Remember, hamsters have tiny stomachs, so offering small, regular meals is best for their well-being.

12. Using the Wrong Wheel

A hamster wheel is essential for their exercise, but not all wheels are created equal. Using a wheel that’s too small or has gaps can cause injury or discomfort. Make sure the wheel is big enough for your hamster to run comfortably and has a solid surface to prevent foot or back injuries. A good-quality, appropriately sized wheel will help keep your hamster active and healthy.

Do and don’ts for hamsters?

Do’s Don’ts
Do provide a spacious cage (at least 450 sq. inches) Don’t use a tiny cage that restricts movement
Do offer fresh food daily (vegetables, pellets, occasional fruit) Don’t feed them only seed mix—it’s not balanced
Do give them a safe, clean bedding (paper-based or aspen) Don’t use cedar or pine shavings—they can irritate their lungs
Do offer plenty of toys and enrichment (wheels, tunnels, chew toys) Don’t leave them with nothing to do—they need stimulation
Do clean their cage regularly (spot clean daily and deep clean weekly) Don’t leave a dirty cage—it can lead to health problems
Do give them fresh water every day (check the bottle regularly) Don’t use a dirty water bottle or bowl—bacteria can grow
Do handle them gently and build trust (gradual interaction) Don’t pick them up too soon—they need time to adjust
Do keep their cage in a quiet place (away from noise and direct sunlight) Don’t place them in noisy or high-traffic areas—it causes stress
Do take them to the vet if they show signs of illness (lethargy, loss of appetite) Don’t ignore signs of illness—hamsters hide their symptoms
Do respect their sleep schedule (they’re nocturnal and need daytime rest) Don’t disturb them during the day—they need their sleep
Do provide a hamster wheel for exercise (ensure it’s the right size and safe) Don’t use a wheel that’s too small or with gaps—it can harm their back or feet
Do offer a variety of fresh veggies (carrots, spinach, cucumber) Don’t feed them sugary fruits or vegetables—these can cause digestive issues
Do ensure the cage is escape-proof (check for gaps or loose bars) Don’t leave the cage open or unsecured—they can easily escape
Do allow your hamster to burrow (provide tunnels or bedding for digging) Don’t prevent them from burrowing—it’s an instinctive behavior
Do supervise interactions with other pets (if introducing them to other animals) Don’t let other pets (like cats or dogs) near the hamster’s cage unsupervised—they can be a danger to the hamster

Wrapping It Up

Hamsters may be small, but they deserve big love and care! By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re giving your hamster the best chance at a happy and healthy life. Take the time to learn about their needs, create an enriching environment, and keep an eye on their health. Your hamster will appreciate it, and you’ll enjoy seeing them thrive!

Have any hamster care tips of your own? Share them in the comments! We’d love to hear how you care for your furry little friend.