The Chinese hamster (or hamster from China) is part of the dwarf hamsters, and has a rather limited coloration compared to other hamsters whose fur can vary greatly within the same breed. Visually, it resembles a cross between a hamster and a mouse.
Description of the Chinese hamster
Relatively rarely sold in pet stores, here’s how to distinguish it:
- A size of 6 to 10 cm
- It has a small tail up to 3 cm
- It weighs between 40 and 80 grams.
- The body shape resembles that of the Russian hamster
- Gray on the back and white on the belly
- It has a dark stripe on the back
- It has soft and silky fur
- Females can have up to 5 pups at a time
- Gestation of 20 days
Origins of the Chinese hamster
Not sure if this question needs answering, but just in case: the Chinese hamster comes from the desert regions of Mongolia and… northeast China. Not very original indeed!
It spread to the West in the early 20th century, mainly because it was used for laboratory testing.
Behavior and character of the Chinese hamster
The main character traits of the Chinese hamster are:
- They are very agile and love to climb and jump
- They are neither fearful nor biting
- Neither the most affable nor the most curious of hamsters
- Gentle, but difficult to hold in hand because they keep moving
- They are sensitive to stress
- They are nocturnal and will spend most of the day sleeping. They are very active at night and can make a lot of noise running on their wheel.
- They prefer to live alone and only gather to reproduce. So there’s no need to find them many companions, or else there will only be one left in the end!
Lifespan of a Chinese hamster
Chinese hamsters are relatively robust animals that can live on average 2 to 3 years in captivity. However, they are sensitive to respiratory diseases, and should therefore be raised in a clean environment to hope to reach this age.
Feeding a Chinese hamster
Chinese hamsters are omnivorous animals. They primarily feed on grains, fruits, and vegetables. They also enjoy insects and small animals.
Ideally, they should be fed with a special mix of pellets for hamsters, which can be purchased at pet stores. They also enjoy fresh vegetables and fruits, such as carrots, zucchinis, apples, and pears. Do not feed Chinese hamsters foods that are too fatty, too sweet, or too salty, as this can lead to diabetes in these little animals.
Also, be sure to provide them with some grass or hay which will be greatly appreciated by these small rodents for their fiber content.
Is the Chinese hamster recommended for children?
All hamsters are suitable for children. But this one may be a little less so than the Syrian or golden hamster, for example, because although harmless, it is in most cases less sociable and more independent, which can be frustrating for a young owner.
Taking care of a Chinese hamster
The Chinese hamster needs a spacious enclosure with hiding places, toys, and bedding. The bedding should be changed regularly to avoid odors. Chinese hamsters are rodents and need a chewing block in their enclosure. They also like to scratch and dig, so put some soil in their enclosure for them to play with.
Chinese hamsters are very clean animals and don’t require much care. They wash themselves with their hind feet and do not need baths. However, they often enjoy playing in water, so it’s recommended to provide them with a small water dish.
They are very active, and for this reason, need a sufficiently large space to run and play. A cage that is 60 cm long and 30 cm wide is ideal for a Chinese hamster. The cage should be equipped with a wheel, a house, a litter box, and a water dish. Chinese hamsters also like to scratch and play with plastic toys, like balls or rings.
Where to buy a Chinese hamster?
They are becoming less common in pet stores, as they have been replaced by more popular hamsters, such as the Syrian hamster, the golden hamster, or the Russian hamster.
If you choose a Chinese hamster, you can find one in a shelter or from a breeder, each having its advantages and disadvantages. Shelters will offer hamsters for adoption, but with limited choices. This is an interesting option for those who want to provide a home for an animal in need. Additionally, shelters may not have the same variety of breeds as a breeder and may not always be able to provide specific information about the animal’s history or temperament. Breeders, on the other hand, are experts and can help you find the perfect Chinese hamster for your needs, but at a higher price.