The authoritative information and advice you need, illustrated throughout with full-color photographs—now revised and redesigned to be even more reader-friendly!\ Alert and active (especially in the evening), hamsters are fascinating and fun. Your hamster will probably fit in the palm of your hand and with gentle, regular handling will quickly begin to love playtime. Hamsters are easy to tame and care for. This guide helps you do it right with advice on:\ * Types of hamsters and...
The authoritative information and advice you need, illustrated throughout with full-color photographs--now revised and redesigned to be even more reader-friendly! Alert and active (especially in the evening), hamsters are fascinating and fun. Your hamster will probably fit in the palm of your hand and with gentle, regular handling will quickly begin to love playtime. Hamsters are easy to tame and care for. This guide helps you do it right with advice on: * Types of hamsters and characteristics to look for * Selecting and "furnishing" a home for your hamster * Proper care and handling * Keeping your pet stimulated and healthy * Having fun with your curious little critter
The World of the Hamster 9What Is a Hamster? 11A Misunderstood Family 11What Makes a Hamster a Rodent? 14Types of Hamsters 16Hamster History 21The Source 21Hamster Character 23A Revolutionary Discovery 26Hamsters in the Classroom 28Hamster-Friendly Times 29Why Have a Hamster? 31Why Do We Love Them? 31Golden or Dwarf? 34Wanted: Responsible Owners 34Caring for Your Hamster 37Your Hamster's Home 38Hamster Habitats 38The Special Needs of Dwarf Hamsters 42Where to Place Your Hamster's Habitat 42How to Set Up Your Hamster's Home 44Additional Supplies 45Toys to Make a Hamster Happy 49Choosing Your Hamster 52Making Preparations 52Where to Get Your New Pet 54Choosing a Healthy Hamster 56Welcoming Your New Pet Home 58Day-to-Day Care and Handling 60HouseholdUpkeep 60Hamster Grooming 62Gentle Hamster Handling 64How to Tame Your New Companion 65Feeding Your Hamster 68Nutritional Needs 68Safe and Nutritious Foods 74How to Feed a Hamster 75Keeping Your Hamster Healthy 79Preventive Care 79Hamster Warning Signs 80Common Hamster Health Problems 82How to Handle Wet Tail 86Unexpected Pregnancy 90When It's Time to Say Good-Bye 93Enjoying Your Hamster 95Your Hamster's Behavior 96Hamster Highlights 96Hamsters and Other Pets 102The Great Escape Artist 102Special Circumstances 104How to Find a Hiding Hamster 105Hamster Smarts 108Having Fun with Your Hamster 110Fun with Toys 110Out and About 115Caution! Hamsters Roaming 117Sharing the Joy of Hamsters 118Learning More About Your Hamster 121A Few Good Books 121Magazines 122On the Internet 122Index 124