The Russian hamster, also known as the Siberian hamster or Djungarian hamster, is a small and adorable creature particularly suited for children, as they are much more docile than other hamster breeds. Although small, they have a lot of personality and are very affectionate. It is one of the most domesticated species in the hamster category. Want to choose a Russian hamster? Here’s what you need to know about these little mammals.
Description of the Russian hamster
The Russian hamster is classified in the category of dwarf hamsters. If you are looking to identify it, here are its characteristics:
- It is very small: about 7 to 11 cm
- It can weigh between 40 to 90 grams, so it is particularly light
- The Russian hamster is very furry, which makes it look like a pretty ball of fur despite its small build and body.
- It can be gray or white (sapphire, pearl) in general and has a darker stripe on its back
- Their body is rounded and they have a short tail.
- It has a soft and silky body
- Gestation lasts 21 days
- The male is generally larger than the female (read the article: what is the sex of my hamster)
Origins of the Russian hamster
The Russian hamster is a small species native to Central Asia, specifically Siberia and Kazakhstan. It is believed to have arrived in Europe in the 1800s when Russian merchants began importing it in large quantities. The first Russian hamsters were probably wild animals captured in nature, but it is not known exactly when and how they were domesticated.
Behavior and character of the Russian hamster
Today, the Russian hamster is one of the most popular hamster species as a pet, due to its small size, gentle nature, and affordable price.
Russian hamsters are nocturnal animals and, in captivity, they usually sleep during the day. They are very active at night and enjoy playing with their toys. They are also known to be very clean and do not make too much noise.
Russian hamsters are generally solitary animals, although they can (sometimes) get along with other hamsters if properly introduced. Do not put two male hamsters together, as they could fight!
One could even say that Russian hamsters, even though a bit shy, are very affectionate animals, who much prefer playing and interacting with their human owners rather than with other hamsters! They love being petted a lot. If you want to adopt several, choose separate cages and place them as far apart as possible.
Are Russian hamsters friendly?
Russian hamsters are one of the most popular dwarf hamsters because they are friendly. Once they get to know you, they can be very docile and amiable. Compared to their counterpart, the Roborovski, Russian hamsters are tiny balls of sweetness. However, like any hamster, being taken by surprise or being suddenly awakened can lead to bites.
How long does a Russian hamster live?
Like most dwarf hamsters, a Russian hamster lives an average of 1.5 to 3 years. If raised in an ideal environment and well cared for, they can exceptionally live up to 3.5 years.
Some of them may only live for 9 months. Due to their tiny size and their turbulent and energetic nature, these little companions are very vulnerable and may jump out of hands or be accidentally released. Genetics, the quality of care, and the environment play an essential role in a hamster’s longevity.
Food for Russian hamsters
The diet of a Russian hamster must be balanced and varied to allow it to develop properly and remain healthy. It should include fresh fruits and vegetables, cereals, seeds, nuts, and insects.
Russian hamsters are generally very greedy and love to store their food in their cheeks. Feed them regularly and do not let them overeat. It’s a bit like children, really 🙂
If you want to provide your Russian hamster with a balanced and varied diet, feel free to offer the following foods:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: carrots, apples, pears, etc.
- Cereals: bread, rice, pasta, etc.
- Seeds: sunflower, flax, etc.
- Nuts: hazelnuts, almonds, etc.
- Insects: crickets, larvae, etc.
Is the Russian hamster suitable for children?
Without a doubt, it is even the most recommended breed for children due to the gentleness of this small rodent. However, be careful with young children, who might tend to handle them carelessly. Russian hamsters are fragile, and with their few grams, they can’t do much harm to anyone!
Good to know as well: the Russian hamster does not bite, or very rarely.
How to take care of a Russian hamster
Russian hamsters are very easy to take care of. They do not need a special cage and can live in a standard hamster cage. Russian hamsters need a safe and comfortable place to sleep, as well as a cozy nest to hide in. They also need a safe place to store their food and fresh water.
Russian hamsters are very clean animals and do not need to be bathed. They groom themselves by licking their fur. Russian hamsters are very easy to train and quickly get used to their owner. They are generally very affectionate with their family and love to be petted.
Russian hamsters are very easy to maintain. The cage should be equipped with:
- a wheel for the hamster to exercise
- a nest for it to rest
- a drinker for it to drink
- strong bars, as they are agile climbers.
Due to their curious nature and exploratory side, it’s important to give them plenty of space to play.
Care for the Russian hamster
Russian hamsters are very clean animals and do not require baths, although it is essential to regularly clean their cage. They wash themselves regularly.
Where to buy a Russian hamster?
Buying a Russian hamster is easy if you know where to look. Most pet stores sell them, and you can also find them online, which we do not recommend, however.
You can also find them in shelters, due to abandonments, but you may not necessarily get the desired color (or breed). The simplest option is to buy your hamster from a pet store or from a breeder if you have one nearby.