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Coming from a large subfamily of rodents, the Chinese hamster is the most used pet in the world for its small size and easy care. However, this species is prohibited in Brazil due to legislation regarding the import of live specimens. Read on to find out all about the Chinese hamster.
Source- Asia
- China
- Mongolia
Source
O Chinese hamster it is, as its name implies, hailing from the deserts of northeast China and Mongolia. This hamster breed was first domesticated in 1919 and its history began as a laboratory animal. Years later, the Chinese hamster was replaced by bowls that were easier to care for and that was when it gained popularity as a pet.
physical appearance
It is a long, slender rodent that has a small 1cm prehensile tail. It bears a certain resemblance to the common mouse, although this one measures about 10 or 12 centimeters at the most, thus weighing between 35 and 50 grams, approximately.
The dark eyes, open ears and innocent look make the Chinese hamster a very cherished pet. They present some sexual dysmorphism, as the male is usually larger than the female, having testicles a little out of balance for his body.
The Chinese hamster is usually of two colors, reddish brown or grayish brown, although it is possible to find black and white specimens on rare occasions. The upper part of its body has lines, as well as a black fringe from the front and along the spine, ending at the tail.
Behavior
Once domesticated, the Chinese hamster is a perfect pet who will not hesitate to climb into the tutor's hands or sleeves and thus enjoy his caress and care. They are very intelligent and playful animals that enjoy contact with their tutor.
They are a little unpredictable in relation to members of their own species, as they can behave territorially as they are used to being solitary animals (it is not recommended to pair them with groups other than the same sex). If you have large groups, the tutor must always be vigilant as aggression or disputes may arise.
food
You will find, on the market, a wide variety of products from different brands that include varied seeds to feed your Chinese hamster. Its contents should include oats, wheat, corn, rice and barley. They should be foods high in fiber and low in fat.
You can add fruits and vegetabless your diet, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchini, spinach or lentils, as well as apples, pears, bananas or peaches. You can also add small amounts of nuts like hazelnuts, walnuts or peanuts. In the case of offspring, pregnant mothers, nursing mothers or the elderly, you can include oats with milk in the diet.
In nature, it feeds on herbs, sprouts, seeds and even insects.
Habitat
Chinese hamsters are very active animals and, therefore, they must have a cage of at least 50 x 35 x 30 centimeters. His big obsession with climbing requires a double-decker cage, suspension toys, a big wheel and even a runner so he can have fun when you're not with him.
Illnesses
Below you can see a list of the most common Chinese hamster illnesses:
- tumors: In old age, your hamster is likely to develop tumors.
- Cannibalism: If your Chinese hamster suffers from protein deficiencies, it can resort to cannibalism with its own babies or with members of its same habitat.
- Fleas and lice: The tutor should not be concerned about the appearance of these insects if the animal lives indoors.
- Paralysis of the hind legs: If it has suffered a significant fall, the hamster may show hind leg paralysis from shock, although it will normally regain mobility after rest.
- Pneumonia: If your hamster is exposed to strong drafts or low temperatures, it may be suffering from pneumonia which can be identified by nosebleeds. Provide a warm and relaxed environment for your recovery.
- fractures: After taking a sip or a fall, your hamster may break a bone. Usually a period of 2-3 weeks is enough to heal on its own.
- Diabetes: Very common if we do not feed the animal correctly, it can also arise from hereditary causes.
Curiosities
Ordinance 93/98, which deals with the import and export of live specimens, products and by-products of Brazilian wild fauna and exotic wild fauna, allows the importation of Hamsters, and this species cannot be brought to Brazil.