tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19655529532567120292024-03-13T11:01:47.689-04:00Dashing HamstersA website for modern hamster loversHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-61545771005470634952014-12-04T21:25:00.003-05:002014-12-04T21:25:31.087-05:00Sorry FolksHello everyone,<br />
I am sorry for pretty much abandoning this blog, Lumiel passed away on March 20, 2013, he did not even spend a year with me. I was quite upset over losing another hamster so suddenly and out of the blue and needed a break from hamsters in general.<br />
I am hoping to be able to get back into the swing of things soon, however I do not know how often I will be able to update this website for a little while longer.<br />
I just wanted to give everyone that used to read this an update.<br />
I hope everyone has happy holidays.<br />
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~HollyHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-17970983529633667742013-07-12T10:48:00.001-04:002013-07-12T10:48:15.014-04:00Meet LumielAfter a short break from hamsters so that I could finish off my school year and delve into working over the summer I have finally welcomed another hamster into my life. He is a long haired banded mink syrian named Lumiel. He seems to be a rather mellow and easy going little guy that is most certainly an avid wheel hamster. And now without further delay, the pictures!<br />
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I would also like to take the time to mention that I do also have a youtube channel where I share videos of my pets, mostly of the hamsters. The link is right here: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/Gerbiee" target="_blank">My Youtube Channel</a>. Here's a sample:</div>
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-90204918306146067092013-07-10T18:20:00.004-04:002013-07-10T18:20:52.569-04:00A Scientific Look at Pine and Cedar<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Over on the Hamster Hideout Forum (www.hamsterhideout.com/forum) a couple of members under the username's Taxonomist and tbiM20 both worked together to create a more scientific based look at cedar and pine shavings and the associated dangers of using them for small animals including hamsters. The link to this post is right here: <a href="http://hamsterhideout.com/forum/topic/73932-project-product-quick-ref-with-reviews/?p=673782" title="">Cedar and Pine: Why You Should Avoid It</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The post is careful to explain what it is about these softwoods that makes them so dangerous for use in a hamster's home and also explains exactly why pine and cedar are so toxic. If you aren't convinced to switch to an alternative substrate yet then please do give this article a read in order to at least understand what your choice means for your hamster.</span><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-87223840098233952322013-02-27T22:04:00.001-05:002013-02-27T22:07:33.363-05:00Dealing with Death<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In light of losing my two new boys for no explainable reason, I was forced to face the hardest part of having pets in my life: losing them. It's inevitable, everything must one day die as the circle of life dictates. But that fact doesn't really make it easier. The fact that hamsters are small, cheap to obtain, and live relatively short lives does not make it any easier either no matter how much some people believe that it should. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I want to talk about dealing with this loss. Since everyone deals with death differently and everyone grieves differently I am going to attempt to cover what I can.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Finding a pet already gone is different, but no less difficult, than having to decide whether or not to euthanize them if they are ill or hurting. In that situation, as a pet parent it is your responsibility to decide what is best for your pet over what you may feel is best for you. It is easy to let your emotions cloud your judgement, but it is essential that you do assess their quality of life. If they are only going to get worse, if they are living in constant pain, if the bad days are more frequent than the good days than it may be time to help your pet pass peacefully. As odd as it may sound to some people, sometimes it is the animals themselves that let you know when they are ready to go. When my dog, Blue, was very ill and we knew that we would have to help him pass soon, it was him that let me know. One morning he looked at me and just let me know. I don't know how I understood him, but he did let me know. My father has often talked about this with cats of his past, and I have heard stories of other animals seeming to be able to communicate this to humans. Sometimes they don't let you know, and then it comes down to trying to understand your pet and whether holding on is the humane decision. (Side note: I have heard of people attempting to use CO2 chambers at home as a method of euthanization, this is not considered humane and I do not recommend it. The safest way to help your pet pass peacefully is to take them to a trained vet. Keep in mind that due to a hamster's small size they should be sedated (gas) prior to the injection to avoid unnecessary pain).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">When they have passed there is the reality that pet owners must face of deciding what to do with their pet's body. I, myself, bury my pets in the yard so that they are always close to home. Others bury their pets in pots and grow plants in them, the body giving life to something new. Some bury their pets in parks or in the woods (be sure to check your local laws). Some pet cemeteries cater to small animals too. Burial aside, there is also cremation, often available through your vet though private companies do exist too. What you do with the ashes is then up to you whether you choose to keep them in an urn, spread them, or do something else with them. I've heard of companies that can put ashes into pendents and such as jewelry so that they are always close by (be sure to research the company well, I have heard stories of companies not keeping proper track of the ashes). One person on a forum brought their hamster to a taxidermist. What you do with the body is often determined by finances and circumstances, but do what feels right for you. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Wanting to know where your pet has gone beyond this life largely depends on your own beliefs. The most common story shared among animal lovers is that of Rainbow Bridge:</span></span><br />
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">"Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet
goes to Rainbow Bridge. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and
play together. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and
comfortable. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigour;
those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we
remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss
someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and
looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers.
Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs
carrying him faster and faster. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you
cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses
rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look
once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but
never absent from your heart. </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... "</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">
<br />~Author unknown</span></i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Some people believe that they will be born again, and that we may encounter them in our lives once again in a new body. Others feel that they stay close to us as we continue to live. It's a touchy subject for some. I know that I find comfort in believing that one day, somehow, I will see them again. Deep down I know it to be true for me. Whatever you believe, know that it is normal to question this.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">In fact it is normal to question your pet's death. Questions of why it had to happen, what you could have done differently, why they couldn't have lived longer, will the hurt ever go away? I've heard answers from many people and it yet I always ask these questions, often without answer. It is often part of the grieving process. Shock, denial, anger, and sadness are all common. Not everyone cries, not everyone feels the need to lock themselves away, not everyone deals with it the same way.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I am often asked how I can continue to have pets when their loss hurts so much. I have had quite a few pets in my life so far, and I have no plans currently to ever not have pets in my life. No matter how much the loss hurts, the blessing of being in their lives and having them in my own is always worth it. I wouldn't trade it. As you begin to understand how you grieve, it can be easier to move through the process as well. It is not easier to lose a pet, don't get me wrong, but it is easier to navigate the hurt.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">"Should I get another?" I hear this all the time along with "is it heartless to get another so soon?" or "am I replacing them?". I never look at getting a new pet as replacing the lost pet. I see it as honouring their life by opening my heart to another animal in need of a forever home. Whether you want another pet is up to you, ask yourself if you honestly do and take the time to consider it. As for how soon you let another pet into your life is dependent upon the individual. Some find a new pet helpful in the healing process, others need more time. Do what is right for you. I usually find a new animal does help me to cope, it gives me something to focus on. Sometimes I need some time and space. Take a moment to decide what you need.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Other ways to help heal is to do something special. Make a ceremony out of the burial, paint a picture, make a scrapbook, write a story, etc. I used to dedicate a page in a scrapbook to every hamster that I lost. Now I find comfort in writing a piece talking all about that pet, alongside some of my favourite pictures of them. I share them here, on this blog, and on a hamster forum (Hamsterhideout.com/forum). Finding someone that is in the same mindset as you when it comes to animals is very helpful I have found. Talking with most of my everyday friends never yielded the same comfort as talking with friends that loved animals as much as I do, even if those friends were online. Not everyone is understanding when it comes to losing a pet, especially one often viewed as cheap and easily replaced. Don't be afraid to seek out like-minded people, they do exist out there, its one of the great bonuses of the internet.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Losing your pet is unavoidable, and it isn't ever easy to deal with. In time the hurt will fade, and their picture won't always bring a tear, and the good memories will eventually bring a smile. The love they shared with us and the lessons they taught us will live on with us. Gone from this life, but never forgotten, always in our hearts.</span></span></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-57037007146444202152013-02-23T12:41:00.003-05:002013-02-23T12:42:36.786-05:00Rest Peacefully Boys<br />
<br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/Edited/vimyampbillyrip_zps70feb1e1.jpg" /> </span><br />
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Yesterday I found both Billy and Vimy gone. They passed
quickly, and had been acting completely normal and healthy before. They were
snuggled together, they passed in their sleep together. They seemed so healthy
and happy, they were out playing just yesterday. There were no signs of
illness, no change in behaviour, nothing. They would have been two months old
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They were both such sweethearts, I was smitten with them
ever since I met them. They were kissy, silly, and sweet. I wish I could have
known them for longer and I wish I knew why they passed.</div>
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<br /></div>
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They were such wonderful hamsters and I am so thankful that
my friend, Mika, brought them into my life.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Rest peacefully Vimy and Billy.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" height="299" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6781_zpsa5f63295.jpg" width="400" /> </span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-2113269057230893792013-01-25T01:03:00.003-05:002013-01-25T01:03:56.903-05:00Please Welcome...<!--[if !mso]>
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It has been way too long to be without hamsters in my
opinion. And a forum friend Mika (of Hamsterhideout.com) agreed, so when a
lovely little hamster family came into her life, born on December 23 2012, she
offered to let me adopt some. She has been keeping me updated on their growth
and when it was finally decided who I would be taking in she was awesome and
sent lots of updates on my two.<br />
<br />
So while visiting Mika and meeting her own zoo we caught up and I was holding
the boys the entire time and even got kisses and grooming nibbles. I fell for
them most instantly!<br />
<br />
Their names are Vimy (the darker boy) after a battle in World War One in which Canadian troops claimed victory when no others could; and the lighter boy is named Billy after Billy Bishop who was the top Canadian ace pilot and third overall in World War One. I'm a history student with a fondness for the 20th century, so names relating to such was bound to occur one day.<br />
<br />They have settled in rather well, but I did have to give up my quest for pictures and watching them settle in order to turn on the lights
before Vimy would come out of their gourd hideaway and really explore. I need to
invest in red lighting it seems!
<br />
Now please finally enjoy some videos and
pictures!<br />
<br />http://youtu.be/rWGJQrJ3vVs<br />http://youtu.be/AYJZLId2MAk</div>
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<br />
Mika sent them off with an awesome little care package too! All perfectly
labeled!<br /></div>
<span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="239" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam023_zps43a35bbc.jpg" style="border: 0px none; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="320" /></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Then the treat package!</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="239" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam022_zps76018df6.jpg" style="border: 0px none; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="320" /></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="239" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam024_zpsba10167c.jpg" style="border: 0px none; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="320" /></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Billy:</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="299" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam008_zps1ce264e7.jpg" style="border: 0px none; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="400" /></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="299" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam010_zps3679d956.jpg" style="border: 0px none; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="400" /></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="299" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam016_zps72f1cbee.jpg" style="border: 0px none; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="400" /></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">^(excuse the bottle spout, it's just hard water stains)</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="299" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam018_zpsc1d57313.jpg" style="border: 0px none; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="400" /></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Posted Image" class="bbc_img" height="299" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollysoldcam020_zps7443d106.jpg" style="border: 0px none; 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background-color: white; color: #282828; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Vimy:</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24.44444465637207px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span rel="lightbox" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; 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<![endif]-->Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-59222060640959655622012-10-08T21:20:00.001-04:002013-07-12T10:30:35.506-04:00Master Food List<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When one walks down the food isle
at the pet store, it is easy to be overwhelmed by all of the choices available.
There are not only many different companies, but also many different recipes
from each company. Yet which one is a good one? Just like dog or cat food, they
are not all made equally. Unless you plan to go down the route of creating your
own mix (which isn't as easy as it may seem) than store bought mixes can be a
good option too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So let's look at common brands of
food and consider if they are good for a hamster. If there are any you are
wondering about that do not show up on this list than just ask and I will look
into it! Problem ingredients will be bolded in blue if they are a
concern for diabetes prone species (Winter White dwarfs, Russian Campbell
dwarfs and Chinese), and will be bolded in red if they are a problem
for any species of hamster. <b>Please keep in mind that we are looking at each mix
as if it were to be a possible staple for a hamster, not as an additive
alongside another food.</b><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Considerations<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When looking at a food it is best
to look at three basic nutrition levels first, protein, fibre, and fat;
ignoring the ingredients and often colourful packaging for a moment. Not enough research has gone into
understanding the ideal nutritional levels for a hamster, however based on the
information we do have we can make an educated guess. Based on research I have
done myself alongside conversations with other hamster enthusiasts the ideal
levels for these are as follows:<br />
Protein: 17-22% <br />
Fibre: 8-10%<br />
Fat: 4-6%<br />
Next we would look at the ingredients, careful to consider ingredients that may
be harmful, ingredients that would not be beneficial for diabetic or diabetes
prone species*, as well as an overall sense as to whether there is a good
variety, there are not too many treats and the food is not missing any crucial
ingredients. Don’t focus too much on the colourful packaging, which is designed
to draw in the uneducated, especially children who will often want what looks
like fun.<br />
<br />
*Species prone to diabetes include Russian Campbell Dwarfs, Chinese hamsters,
Hybrids, and some lines of Winter White Dwarfs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Warning<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Companies sometimes change
ingredients and composition with little or no warning. It is important to check
it every time you buy to be sure that it is still the food you expect it to be.
I will attempt to keep this page updated; however it is difficult to keep track
of so many foods. Also keep in mind that there will be variations in what some
people may consider a suitable food based on their own research. There is just
not enough conclusive information for everyone to fall with the same opinion. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Quick Reference List<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good for any
species<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-Supreme Pets Food Hazel Hamster (Note: Different than Harry Hamster)*<br />
-Supreme Pets Food Harry Hamster (Note: Different than Hazel Hamster)*<br />
-Supreme Science Selective Hamster*<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good for Syrians
and/ or Roborovski Dwarfs<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-Burgess Supahamster Hamster Harvest* [Thank you Ely
Vihavainen]<br />
-Burgess Supahamster Dwarf Hamster Harvest* [Thank you Ely Vihavainen]<br />
-CareFRESH Complete Menu Hamster and Gerbil*<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat and Hamster Food*<br />
-Mazuri Hamster and Gerbil</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-ratRations Syrian mix - no fruits added (Europe Only)<br />
-ratRations Syrian mix - with Apple (Europe Only)<br />
-ratRations Syrian mix - with Banana (Europe Only)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><u>Only suitable if
foods from the above lists are unavailable. Not recommended for hamsters with
diabetes, or those prone to it.</u></i><br />
-8 in 1 Ecotrition Organic Blend Hamster and Gerbil Food<br />
-Hamster Muesli by Pets at Home<br />
-Premium Hamster Muesli by Pets at Home [Thank you SyrianPumpkin]<br />
-Purina Little Wonders<br />
-Purina Garden Recipe Hamster and Gerbil Diet<br />
-Tesco Hamster Food Peanut and Sunflower Seed<br />
-Versele-Laga Hamster Nature Complete [Thank you Ingrid Haugland, Ely
Vihavainen]<br />
-Vitakraft Vitasmart Hamster<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Unsuitable<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-8 in 1 Ecotrition Essential Blend Hamster and Gerbil Food<br />
-8 in 1 Wild Harvest Daily Blend Nutrient Rich Food (Hamster and Gerbil) [Thank
you the Taxonomist]<br />
-All Living Things Hamster and Gerbil Daily Diet<br />
-Beaphar Care+ Hamster Food [Thank you Ingrid Haugland]<br />
-Beaphar Care+ Dwarf Hamster Food [Thank you Ingrid Haugland]<br />
-Best Friend Festival [Thank you Ely Vihavainen]<br />
-FM Brown's Natural Hamster Food with Vitamins and Minerals<br />
-FM Brown's Tropical Carnival Gourmet Food for Hamsters and Gerbils (thanks to
my detective friends)<br />
-Grreat Choice Hamster/Gerbil<br />
-Hartz Bonanza Hamster and Gerbil Diet [Thank you Hoppinghammy]<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Hamster and Gerbil Food<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Crunch Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Supreme Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Hamster/Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Chunky Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Nature's Benefits Hamster and Gerbil Daily Diet<br />
-Kaytee Fiesta Max Hamster/Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Supreme Daily Blend Hamster and Gerbil Mix<br />
-Living World Extrusion pellets [Thank you SyrianPumpkin]<br />
-Living world Classic Hamster food [Thank you SyrianPumpkin]<br />
-LM Farms Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-LM Animal Farms Bonanza Gourmet Diet Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Mucki Menü plus [Thank you Ely Vihavainen]</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-Oxbow Healthy Handfuls for Hamsters and Gerbils [Thank you the Taxonomist]<br />
-Sun Seed Sunscrition Vita Prima Hamster and Gerbil Formula<br />
-Tesco Everyday Value Gerbil and Hamster Food<br />
-Versele-Laga Mini Hamster Nature Complete [Thank you Ingrid Haugland, Ely
Vihavainen]<br />
-Versele-Laga Hamster Crispy [Thank you Ely Vihavainen]<br />
-Vitakraft Emotion Beauty Hamster Food<br />
-Vitakraft Menu Hamster<br />
-Wagg Hamster Gerbil Mouse Munch<br />
-Wilko Original Hamster Mix<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">*</span></b>Please refer to more
detailed list as there is more that should be read either in regard to debate
over a certain ingredient or that the food may need to be modified in some way
to be made suitable.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<br />
<b><u>8 in 1 Ecotrition Essential Blend
Hamster and Gerbil Food<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Oat Groats, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Whole Corn</span></b>, Heat Processed Soybeans, White
Millet, Milo, Wheat, Pumpkin Seed, Spanish Peanuts, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Diced Papaya, Banana Chips, Ground Corn</span></b>,
Soybean Meal, Wheat Middlings, Soybean Hulls, Ground Oats, Feeding
Oatmeal, Cane Molasses, Salt, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Diced Carrots</span></b>, Diced Potatoes, <b><span style="color: red;">Minced Onion</span></b>s,
Parsley Flakes, Celery Flakes, Diced Red Peppers, Diced Green Peppers, Cabbage
Flakes, <b><span style="color: red;">Leek
Flakes</span></b>, Diced Zucchini, Tomato Flakes, Spinach Flakes, Flaxseed,
Ground Limestone, Dicalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin A Acetate,
Vitamin D3 Supplement, Whey Solids, Vitamin A Palmitate, Spirulina, dl-Alpha
Tocopheryl Acetate (source of Vitamin E), Ground Wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn Gluten Meal</span></b>, Ascorbic Acid
(source of Vitamin C), Corn Distiller's Grains, Soybean Oil, Dried Whole
Egg, Calcium Carbonate, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Molasses</span></b>, Yeast Fermentation Product,
Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Product, DriedLactobacillus
bulgaricus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus
lactisFermentation Product, Lecithin, Natural Mixed Pantothenate, Vitamin
B12Suplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of Vitamin K), Folic
Acid, Biotin, Cobalt Chloride, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid
Complex, Iron Methionine, Magnesium Oxide, Ferrous Carbonate, Ferrous Sulfate,
Zinc Oxide, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Cobalt Carbonate,
and Color Added (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis: </b><br />
Crude Protein 16%<br />
Crude Fat 7%<br />
Crude Fibre 10% max<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is certainly not the
worst one out there when one first looks at the guaranteed analysis; in fact it
shows promise of being quite good. When looking at the ingredients however it
is first clear that this mix is not ideal for diabetes prone species
(ingredients bolded in blue). Yet they have also included onions and leeks
(part of the onion family) in this mix making the entire mix
unhealthy for any species of hamster (bolded in red). Onions
contain thiosulphate which can basically cause the abnormal break down of
red blood cells (the same reason dogs cannot have onions). Unfortunately due to
these two ingredients I cannot say that this mix is good for any species.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8 in 1 Ecotrition Organic Blend Hamster and Gerbil Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Organic alfalfa forage, organic oat groats, organic wheat, organic white
millet, organic milo<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">, organic corn</span></b>, organic soybeans, organic
pumpkin seed, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">organic papaya, organic dehydrated banana</span></b>,
organic flax seed<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">, organic ground corn</span></b>, organic soybean meal, organic
ground wheat, dicalcium phosphate, organic soybean oil, calcium carbonate,
organic spinach powder, dl-methionine, vitamin A supplement, vitamin D3
supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin e supplement, calcium pantothenate,
choline chloride, menadione dimethylpyrimidinol bisulfate (source of vitamin K
activity), niacin, biotin, folic acid, riboflavin, ethylenediamine
dihydriodide, cobalt carbonate, iron (ferrous) sulfate, manganous oxide,
manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, zinc oxide, sodium selenite, red cabbage
extract, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">purple
carrot juice</span></b>, annatto extract. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis: </b><br />
Protein 16%<br />
Fat 7%<br />
Fibre 12%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix does look decent upon
first look at the guaranteed analysis, the protein and fibre percentages are
all quite reasonable. Although the protein could be a bit higher. The fat
content is also higher than one would like and the mix does not even contain
sunflower seeds. The ingredients bolded in blue highlight the ones which are
not beneficial as part of a diet for a diabetes prone species. Since there are
more than a couple along with the carrot juice, it is not a food recommended
for diabetes prone species or for diabetic hamsters. For Syrians or roborovski
dwarf hamsters, this mix would be ok if a better one could not be found and
only if 2-3 sunflower seeds were added to the hamster's diet daily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8 in 1 Wild
Harvest Daily Blend Nutrient Rich Food (Hamster and Gerbil)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Dehydrated alfalfa meal, white millet, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn</span></b>, sunflower seed, wheat, milo, kibbled
wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">kibbled
corn</span></b>, flaked wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">flaked
corn</span></b>, ground oats, soybean hulls, wheat middlings, soybean meal,
dicalcium phosphate, salt, ground limestone, Vitamin A acetate, Vitamin D3
supplement, choline chloride, Vitamin E supplement, niacin, riboflavin,
pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, D-calcium, pantothenate,
menadione sodium bisulfite complex (Vitamin K activity), folic acid, biotin,
Vitamin B12 supplement, magnesium oxide, ferrous carbonate, ferrous sulfate,
zinc oxide, manganous oxide, copper oxide, calcium iodate, cobalt carbonate,
red 40, yellow 5, yellow 6, blue 1.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed
Analysis: </b><br />
Protein 12%<br />
Fat 4%<br />
Fibre 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is too low in protein to be a suitable mix for any species
of hamster. The fibre and fat content are alright and the ingredients that are
not suitable for diabetic or diabetes prone species are able to be picked out.
However, I cannot recommend this food for any species of hamster due to the
protein level.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All
Living Things Hamster and Gerbil Daily Diet<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>,
wheat, milo, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">ground corn</span></b>, dehulled soybean meal, sun-cured
alfalfa meal, sunflower seeds, white millet, ground wheat, shelled peanuts,
ground oats, wheat middlings, pumpkin seed, green split peas,<b style="color: #00b0f0;"> raisins, dehydrated
carrots, dried bananas, dried papaya</b>, dehydrated sweet potatoes, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dehydrated
apples</span></b>, fructooligosaccharide, dicalcium phosphate, soy oil, calcium
carbonate, salt, whole cell algae meal (source of omgega-3 and DHA),<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;"> dried
cane molasses</span></b>, ground flax seed, vitamin A supplement, choline
chloride, l-lysine, dl-methionine, wheat germ meal, brewers dried yeast,
riboflavin supplement, mixed tocopherols (a preservative), ferrous sulfate,
vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin E supplement, yucca schidigera extract,
l-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), manganous oxide, zinc oxide,
niacin, menadione sodium bisulfite complex (source of vitamin K activity),
copper sulfate, rosemary extract, citric acid, cholecalciferol (source of
vitamin D3), calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine
mononitrate, folic acid, biotin, calcium iodate, cobalt carbonate, dried
bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried bacillus licheniformis
fermentation product, sodium selenite, FD&C red #40, FD&C yellow #5,
FD&C blue #1.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis: </b><br />
Crude Protein (not less than) 14%<br />
Crude Fat (not less than) 6%<br />
Crude Fibre (not more than) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is low in protein, far
too low for any species of hamster. There are various ingredients that should
not be provided to a diabetic hamster, or even a hamster of a species that is
prone to diabetes (Ingredients bolded in blue). Overall the mix is not a good
quality mix for any species of hamster and I would not recommend it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beaphar Care+ Hamster Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients: </b><br />
Cereals, derivatives of vegetable origin, seeds, vegetable protein extracts,
meat and animal derivatives, minerals, Yucca Schidigera, algae (Spirulina
0.01%).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis: </b><br />
Nothing specific given on the package. Any information regarding this is
appreciated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is not specific in what
ingredients they use nor is much information given about the nutritional
information of this pellet. Until the company is more forthcoming in regard to
what they put into this food I cannot recommend this mix for any species of
hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beaphar Care+ Dwarf Hamster Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients: </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>
Cereals, derivatives of vegetable origin, meat and animal derivatives, seeds,
minerals, vegetable protein extracts, Yucca Schidigera, algae (Spirulina
0.01%). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis: </b><br />
Nothing specific given on the package. Any information regarding this is
appreciated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is not specific in what
ingredients they use nor is much information given about the nutritional
information of this pellet. Until the company is more forthcoming in regard to
what they put into this food I cannot recommend this mix for any species of
hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Best Friend
Festival<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Rodent pellets, wheat mix, alfalfa mix, oats, dari, pea chips,<b style="color: #00b0f0;"> carrot pellets</b>,
carob, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn
chips</span></b>, sunflower seeds, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">molassed wheat</span></b>, beans, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">carrot</span></b>, peeled peanuts, saflor
seeds, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">papaya,
mango</span></b>, rose hips, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">banana</span></b>, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">sugar</span></b>. Additives: Vitamin mix (Vitamins A, D,
E and C), minerals, E330, E320, E321, E324, E172, E131, E124.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 13%<br />
Fat 6%<br />
Fibre 8.5%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is too low in protein, though the fat and fibre
content is alright. The mix is full of ingredients that are unsuitable for
diabetes prone/ diabetic hamster (bolded in blue) even, for some reason, adding
sugar to the mix. Over all I would not recommend this mix for any species of
hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Burgess Supahamster Dwarf Hamster Harvest</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Canary Seed, Millet, Grass Pellets, <b style="color: #00b0f0;">Maize, </b>Peas, Toasted Soya Flakes, Toasted
Wheat Flakes, Sunflower Seeds, Poultry Fat, Mealworms. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 17.5%<br />
Fat (not listed)<br />
Fibre 9%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is one of the best mixes
found out there for any hamster really, though it is aimed for dwarf hamsters
(and likely Chinese hamsters too). It is UK based, where it seems
less common for fat content to be listed, but the fibre and protein are both in
good ranges. The only thing that would need to be picked out for a diabetic hamster
or for a species prone to diabetes is the maize (corn) as they are
high in natural sugar. I would recommend this mix for Syrians and Roborovski
dwarfs as is, or for any diabetic prone species so long as the maize was picked out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Burgess Supahamster Hamster Harvest<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Cooked cereal biscuits, Toasted wheat flakes, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Toasted maize flakes</span></b>, Toasted
soya flakes, Toasted oat flakes, Grass pellets, Peas,<b style="color: #00b0f0;"> Maize</b>, Pumpkin seeds,
peanuts, sunflower seeds, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">banana flakes</span></b>, Poultry fat, Mealworms<span style="line-height: 115%;">,vitamins
D3, E and A, copper, E341, E102, E131, E306.</span><br />
<b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 18%<br />
Fat 8%<br />
Fibre 6.5%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is aimed for Syrian
hamsters, though Roborovski dwarf hamsters could this eat as well; they would
likely prefer the smaller seeds in Burgess' Dwarf mix though. The protein level
is quite good and the mix is quite well suited for a Syrian hamster or a
Roborovski dwarf. The fat content is rather high, though limiting the amount of
pumpkin seeds and peanuts would likely cut this down a great deal. The fibre
content is a little bit low, adding some timothy hay, broccoli, kale and other
high fibre foods could help to give your hamster more of the fibre it needs. I would not
recommend this mix for any species that is prone to diabetes however due to
the presence of the ingredients bolded in blue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">CareFRESH Complete Menu Hamster and Gerbil <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Whole corn</span></b>,
soybean meal, oat groats, whole wheat, wheat mill run, ground barley, split
green peas, sun-cured alfalfa hay, grass hay (timothy, orchard,
brome), whole safflower, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried carrot</span></b>, yeast culture, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried cane
molasses</span></b>, salt, sodium bentonite, sodium phosphate, lignin
sulfonate, flaxseed (source of omega-3 fatty acids), soybean oil (preserved
with mixed tocopherols, a source of vitamin E), choline chloride, calcium
carbonate, L-lysine, DL-methionine, yucca schidigera extract, vitamin E
supplement, zinc sulfate, iron sulfate, zinc proteinate, niacin, selenium
yeast, copper sulfate, biotin, manganese proteinate, copper proteinate, calcium
pantothenate, vitamin A supplement, sodium selenite, vitamin B2 riboflavin,
vitamin B1 thiamin mononitrate, magnesium sulfate, manganous oxide, vitamin B6
pyridoxine HCl, folic acid, cobalt carbonate, vitamin D3 supplement, vitamin
B12 supplement, calcium iodate and ethylenediamine dihydroiodide (source of
iodine).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 17%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 3.5%<br />
Crude Fibre (min) 5%. /Crude Fibre (max) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is one of the better
ones on the market, they recently changed the recipe, but it is still a rather
good mix. The protein and fibre are at good percentages, thought that fat
content could be higher. This may be due to the fact that this mix does
not contain sunflower seeds which should be a part of any hamster's
diet. If you use this mix for your roborovski dwarf or Syrian hamster, than
adding 2-3 sunflower seeds daily would be ideal; organic unseasoned sunflower
seeds work best. This mix is still not ideal for diabetes-prone species seeing
as there are some ingredients that are not best to have in their diet (bolded
in blue). I would recommend this mix for roborovski dwarfs or Syrians so long
as sunflower seeds were added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">FM Brown's Natural Hamster Food with Vitamins and Minerals<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>,
alfalfa meal dehydrated, timothy hay, milo, millet, wheat flour by-product less
than 9.5% fibre, oats, wheat bran, split green peas, stripe sunflower seed, wheat
germ ground, soybean flour by-product, vitamin A palmitate, cholecalciferol
(source of vitamin D3), vitamin E supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, calcium
carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, salt, manganese proteinate, iron proteinate,
copper proteinate, cobalt proteinate, calcium proteinate and zinc proteinate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 11.25%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 4.25%<br />
Crude Fibre (min) 5.3%. /Crude Fibre (max) 7.3%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is very bare-bones
basic. The protein and fibre level are both rather low, we would rather see the
protein level between 17-22%. If the mix was better quality and had a better
variety than it could be ok for a diabetic hamster as one would only need to
pick out the corn. In the end I would not recommend this mix for
any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">FM Brown's Tropical Carnival Gourmet Food for Hamsters and Gerbils<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Oat groats, millet, alfalfa meal, milo, safflower seed, sunflower seed, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn, kibbled
corn, pineapple</span></b>, buckwheat, wheat, peanuts, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">banana, raisins</span></b>,
lentils, squash, pumpkin seeds, almonds, brazil nuts, green peas, cantaloupe seeds,
navy beans, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">carrot</span></b>, potatoes, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">apples, papaya</span></b>, wheat flour,
cheese meal, semolina flour, soybean meal, gluten meal, soy oil, di-calcium
phosphate, dried brewer’s yeast fermentation product, yucca shidegra extract,
salt, vitamin A palmitate, cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), alpha
tocopherol (source of vitamin E), ascorbic acid (source of vitamin C), thiamine
mononitrate, menadione sodium bisulfate (source of vitamin K), choline
chloride, calcium pantothenate, riboflavin, niacin supplement, pyridoxine
hydrochloride, copper amino acid complex, calcium iodate, cobalt chloride,
manganese amino acid complex, iron methionine, zinc amino acid complex, dried
bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried aspergillus oryzae fermentation
product, dried lactobacillus acidophilus product, dried lactobacillus
bulgaricus fermentation product, sulphur dioxide (a preservative), FD&C
color, artificial flavors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 12.5%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 7.5%<br />
Crude Fibre (max) 8.5%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is far from healthy for
any hamster, it is often dubbed as a junk food mix. Nearly all of the
ingredients would make better treats rather than part of a staple diet. There
are various foods (bolded in blue) that are no good in a diabetic hamster's
diet making it unsuitable for any species of hamster that is prone to diabetes.
The protein and fibre content are too low and the fat content is too high. I
would not recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Grreat Choice Hamster/Gerbil<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>,
milo, white millet, wheat, sunflower, toasted corn flakes, oat
groats, dehydrated alfalfa meal, dehulled soybean meal<b style="color: #00b0f0;">, ground corn, </b>wrinkled peas,
ground oats, ground wheat, calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried cane
molasses</span></b>, salt, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn oil</span></b>, vitamin a supplement, dl-methionine,
l-lysine, choline chloride, ferrous carbonate, manganous oxide, riboflavin
supplement, <b><span style="color: red;">ethoxyquin</span></b> (a preservative), zinc oxide, vitamin b12
supplement, vitamin e supplement, niacin, copper oxide, menadione sodium
bisulfite complex (source of vitamin k activity), cholecalciferol (source of
vitamin d3), calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine
mononitrate, calcium iodate, biotin, folic acid, cobalt carbonate, sodium
selenite, artificial color, natural flavors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 12%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 4%<br />
Crude Fibre (max) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is low in protein thus
making it unsuitable as a staple diet for any species of hamster. On top of
that they use the preservative ethoxyquin, which is debated to cause cancer.
The mix is also not suitable for a hamster that is prone to diabetes, or that
actually has diabetes. Over all I would not recommend this mix for any species
of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hamster Muesli by Pets at Home<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Toasted pea
flakes, grass pellets, extruded nuggets ( Wheat, sunflower, linseed,
oat bran<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">), toasted
maize flakes</span></b>, toasted soya flakes, wheat, sunflower seeds, peanut,
carob bean meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">glucose syrup</span></b>, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried banana flakes</span></b><span style="color: #00b0f0;"> </span>(min 1%), yeasts, dicalcium phosphate,
calcium carbonate.<br />
<br />
<b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 17%<br />
Fat 7%<br />
Fibre 7%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix does have a good protein
level, though the fat content is a bit high. There are various ingredients
(bolded in blue) that are not suitable for a hamster with diabetes or a species
that is prone to it. I would consider giving this to Syrian hamsters or
Roborovski dwarf hamsters if a better food was not available, though for a
diabetic hamster I would not recommend this food.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hartz Bonanza Hamster and Gerbil Diet<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Wheat Middlings, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Whole Corn</span></b>, Whole Wheat, Red Milo, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn</span></b>,
Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, <b style="color: #00b0f0;">Kibbled Corn</b>, Green Split Peas, White
Millet, Oat Groats, Pumpkin Seeds, Dehulled Soybean Meal, Striped Sunflower
Seeds, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Toasted
Corn Flakes</span></b>, Black Oil Sunflower Seeds, Shelled Peanuts, Soybean
Hulls, Roasted Soybeans, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Bananas, Dried Papaya, Raisins, Beet Molasses</span></b>,
Soybean Oil, Rolled Oats, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Carrots</span></b>, Navy Beans, Calcium
Carbonate, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn
Gluten Meal</span></b>, Vegetable Oil, Dicalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride,
Lignin Sulfonate, Natural Orange Flavor, Salt, L-Ascorbly-2-Polyphosphate,
Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine, DL-Methionine, Brewers Dried Yeast, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Cane Molasses</span></b>,
Vitamin E Supplement, Mineral Oil, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Yeast Culture,
Sodium Selenite, Color Added (Yellow #5, Blue #1, Yellow #6, Titanium Dioxide,
Red #40, Red #3), Calcium Propionate (a Preservative), Corn Distillers
Dried Grains, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Natural &
Artificial <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Apple
Flavor</span></b>, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Condensed When
Fermentation Solubles, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin B 12 Supplement, Magnesium Oxide,
Copper Sulfate, Vitamin D 3 Supplement, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Manganese
Sulfate, Zinc Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite
Complex, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide, Mixed Tocopherols ( a Preservative),
Silicon Dioxide, Cobalt Carbonate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Citric Acid ( a
Preservative), Rosemary Extract, Sodium Selenate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (Max.) 15%<br />
Crude Fat (Min.) 4%<br />
Crude Fibre (Max.) 8%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix has just too low of a
protein percentage, rather than the 17-22% that it should be, it sits at 15%.
The fat content and fibre content are at reasonable levels however.
Looking at the ingredients bolded in blue we can see that this mix is not an
ideal one for a hamster with diabetes nor for a species that is prone to it.
Over all I would not recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat and Hamster Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground
Yellow Corn</span></b>, Dehulled Soybean Meal, Ground Wheat, Ground Oats,
Ground Peanuts, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, Ground Flax Seed, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Cane
Molasses</span></b>, Lignin Sulfonate, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn Sugar</span></b>, Calcium Carbonate,
Dicalcium Phosphate, Ground Rice, Salt, Soy Oil, Brewers Dried
Yeast, Dried Beet Pulp, Whole Cell Algae Meal (source of Omega-3 DHA),
Fructooligosaccharide, DL-Methionine, Yeast Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract,
L-Lysine, Vitamin A Supplement, Choline Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols (a
preservative), Ferrous Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Zinc
Oxide, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Menadione Sodium
Bisulfite Complex (source of vitamin K activity), Copper Sulfate, L-Carnitine,
Rosemary Extract, Citric Acid, Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), Calcium
Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid,
Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product,
Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Cobalt Carbonate, Sodium
Selenite, Natural Flavoring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 21%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 4.5%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 7%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So the first thing about this
food is that it is intended not only for hamsters, but also for mice and rats.
All of which have different nutritional needs. Looking at
the nutrition information, the protein and fat percentages are both
quite within good range of a hamster's needs. The higher protein level is
especially beneficial to a species like the roborovski dwarf who do
better with a higher protein level. The fibre is a bit on the low end, however
with foods such as timothy hay, kale, bok choy, broccoli and similar high-fibre
fresh foods it could be balanced out. So this mix could be ok for Syrian
hamsters as well as Roborovski dwarf hamsters upon looking at this information.
However for the other three species, it would not be the best choice seeing as
there are ingredients (bolded in blue) that are not beneficial to have in the
diet of a diabetic hamster. Also note that this food is not a seed mix, but a
lab block (compressed pellet), which is debated between seed mixes as to
whether they are better or not. If this lab block is selected than the owner
would also need to add sunflower seeds to the diet (just 2-3 daily). They are
very beneficial to their overall health (especially their heart!), so organic,
unseasoned sunflower seeds would be highly recommended to add in. So long as
the sunflower seeds were added in I would recommend this mix for Syrians and
roborovski dwarfs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Hamster and Gerbil Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>,
Wheat, Milo, Sunflower, Millet, Oat Groats, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, Dehulled
Soybean Meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn, Toasted Corn Flakes</span></b>, Shelled
Peanuts, Toasted Wheat Flakes, Ground Flax Seed, Canadian Field Peas, Green Split Peas, Ground
Oats, Ground Wheat, Ground Rice, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate,<b> <span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried
Cane Molasses</span></b>, Salt, Soy Oil, Whole Cell Algae Meal (source of
Omega-3 DHA), Fructooligosaccharide, DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Yeast Extract,
Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin A Supplement, Choline Chloride, Mixed
Tocopherols (a preservative), Ferrous Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Riboflavin Supplement,
Zinc Oxide, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Menadione
Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of vitamin K activity), L-Carnitine, Rosemary
Extract, Citric Acid, Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), Copper Sulfate,
Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium
Iodate, Biotin, Folic Acid, Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product,
Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Cobalt Carbonate, Sodium
Selenite, Artificial Color.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 13.5%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 6%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Not to be mixed up with Kaytee's
Forti-Diet Pro Health Rat, Mouse and Hamster Food; this one is not recommended.
The protein percentage is far too low for a hamster, needing upwards of
17%-22%. The fat content is a tad high as well. The ingredients bolded in blue
are not beneficial to diabetes prone species and while most of them could be
picked out, the cane molasses cannot. I would not recommend this for any
species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kaytee Forti-Diet Crunch Hamster and Gerbil <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>,
Wheat, Dehulled Soybean Meal, Milo, Sunflower, Oat Hulls, Millet, Sun-cured
Alfalfa Meal, Oat Groats, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn</span></b>, Shelled Peanuts, Ground
Oats, Canadian
Peas, Ground Wheat, Ground Flax Seed, Green Split Peas<b>,</b> Calcium
Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate<b>, <span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Cane Molasses</span></b>, Tetra Sodium
Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bisulfate, Salt, Soy Oil, Vitamin A Supplement,
DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Titanium Dioxide, Choline Chloride, Ferrous Sulfate,
Manganous Oxide, Riboflavin Supplement, <b><span style="color: red;">Ethoxyquin</span></b> (a preservative), Zinc
Oxide, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Copper Sulfate,
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of vitamin K activity),
Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of
vitamin C), Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine
Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Folic Acid, Dried
A. oryzae Fermentation Extract (source of protease), Dried Bacillus coagulans
Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product, Dried
Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Cobalt Carbonate, Sodium Selenite,
Artificial Colour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 15%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 5.5%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 12%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is low protein,
contains various foods (bolded in blue) that are not diabetes
friendly, and on top of that, this mix contains ethoxyquin, a preservative that
is highly debated to cause cancer. No matter what side of the ethoxyquin debate
you may fall on, this mix is not one that I would recommend for hamsters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kaytee Supreme Hamster and Gerbil<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Rolled Corn</span></b>,
Rolled Oat Groats, Rolled Barley, Sunflower, Soybean Meal, Peanuts, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn</span></b>,
Ground Wheat, Ground Oats, Wheat Middlings, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Cane Molasses</span></b>,
Calcium Carbonate, Fish Meal, Salt, Brewers Dried Yeast, Lignin Sulfonate,
Dicalcium Phosphate, DL-Methionine, Iron Oxide, Vitamin A Supplement, Choline
Chloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement,
Soy Oil, Copper Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Zinc Oxide, Niacin,
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of vitamin K activity),
Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine
Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Ioda</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">te, Biotin, Folic Acid, Cobalt
Carbonate, Sodium Selenite.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 14%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 4%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With this mixture the protein and
fat content are again too low for a hamster of any species, this already is not
a mix that any hamster should be fed. Hamsters with diabetes are at an extra
risk due to the corn ingredients and the cane molasses added to this mix. I
would not recommend this mix for any species.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kaytee Forti-Diet Hamster/Gerbil<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
White Millet, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>, Milo, Sunflower, Oat Groats<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">, Toasted
Corn Flakes</span></b>, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, Wheat, Toasted Wheat Flakes,
Dehulled Soybean Meal<b style="color: #00b0f0;">, Ground Corn, </b>Canadian Field Peas, Ground
Oats, Ground Wheat, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Cane
Molasses</span></b>, Salt, Vegetable Oil, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin A
Supplement, DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Ferrous Sulfate,
Manganous Oxide, Riboflavin Supplement, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin B12 Supplement,
Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Copper Sulfate, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite
Complex (source of vitamin K activity), Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3),
Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium
Iodate, Biotin, Folic Acid, Cobalt Carbonate, Sodium Selenite, Artificial
Colour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 12%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 4%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 11%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is not an ideal one for
hamsters. Again we see that the protein is too low, that most of the
ingredients are not even actual pieces of food, and that of the food in there,
several ingredients are not friendly for diabetes prone species (bolded in
blue). This is not a mix that I would recommend for any species of hamster.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<b><u>Kaytee Chunky Hamster and Gerbil<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Rolled Barley, Oats, <b style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn, </b>Green Split Peas, Oat Groats, Shelled
Peanuts, Wheat, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, Dehulled Soybean Meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn,
Dried Bananas</span></b>, Millet, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dehydrated Carrots</span></b>, Sunflower, Pumpkin Seed,
Flax Seed, Buckwheat, Maple Peas, White Northern Beans, Whole
Peanuts, Pinto Beans, Kidney Beans, Ground Oats, Ground Wheat, Calcium
Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Dried Salt, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Cane Molasses</span></b>, Soy Oil, Yucca
Schidigera Extract, Vitamin A Supplement, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine,
L-Lysine, Ferrous Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Zinc Oxide,
Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin E
Supplement, Niacin, Copper Sulfate, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source
of vitamin K activity), Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), Rosemary
Extract, Citric Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine
Mononitrate, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Folic Acid, Cobalt Carbonate, Sodium
Selenite. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 13.5%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 7%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The common trend with lower quality
foods is that the protein percentage is too low, and following suit
with that idea another of Kaytee's foods with too low of a protein percentage.
The fat content is also higher than one would want to see for a hamster as
well. While the variety in the mix is interesting, several of the ingredients
would make better treats and several others are not a good idea for diabetes
prone species (bolded in blue). I would not recommend this mix for any species
of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kaytee Nature's Benefits Hamster and Gerbil Daily Diet<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Sun-cured Timothy Grass Hay, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>, Sunflower, Rolled Oats, Wheat, Soybean
Meal, Ground Wheat, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn</span></b>, Wheat
Middlings, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried
Bananas</span></b>, Oat Hulls, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Papaya, Raisins</span></b>, Peanut Pieces, Hulled
Sunflower, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Cracked
Corn</span></b>, Gelatin, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Cane Molasses, Dried Cane Molasses</span></b>, Ground
Oats, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dehydrated Carrots</span></b>, Pistachio
Pieces, Salt, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Honey, Corn Sugar</span></b>, Soy Oil, Dehydrated
Sweet Potatoes, Pepitas, Pecan Pieces, Almond Pieces, Walnut Pieces, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn Gluten
Meal</span></b>, DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Vitamin A Supplement, Choline
Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Brewers Dried Yeast, Wheat Germ
Meal, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), Vitamin E Supplement,
Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Yucca Schidigera Extract,
Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Manganous Oxide, Niacin, Menadione Sodium
Bisulfite Complex (source of vitamin K activity), Copper Sulfate, Calcium
Pantothenate, Rosemary Extract, Citric Acid, Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin
D3), Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Calcium Iodate, Folic
Acid, Biotin, Cobalt Carbonate, Sodium Selenite, Dried A. oryzae Fermentation
Extract (source of protease), Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product,
Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Natural Flavors. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 13%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 7%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 16%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The variety in this mix is quite
impressive for a pre-made mix, and many of the ingredients would not just be
considered treats, though several would be. However looking at the nutritional
information we see that the fat content is too high and that the protein
content is too low for a hamster. On top of that this mix seems to be the least
friendly of Kaytee's line in terms of a diabetic diet (note the bolded blue
ingredients). I would not recommend this mix for a staple diet for any species
of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kaytee Fiesta Max Hamster/Gerbil<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn</span></b>,
Oats, Wheat, Milo, Sunflower, Millet, Green Split Peas, Oat Groats, Shelled Peanuts,
Ground Wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn</span></b>, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, Dehulled
Soybean Meal, Pumpkin Seed, Barley, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Raisins</span></b>, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dehydrated Carrots, Dried Bananas</span></b>,
Safflower, Canadian
Field Peas, Ground Flax Seed, Ground Oats, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Papaya</span></b>, Ground
Rice, Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dehydrated Apples</span></b>, Rice Flour, Dicalcium
Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Soy Oil, Algae Meal (source of Omega-3
DHA), Fructooligosaccharide, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Cracked Corn</span></b>, Hulled Millet, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Cane
Molasses</span></b>, Yeast Extract, Sesame Seed, Yucca Schidigera Extract,
Vitamin A Supplement, L-Lysine, DL-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Mixed
Tocopherols (a preservative), Gelatin, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Honey</span></b>, Dextrose, Ferrous
Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Riboflavin Supplement, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin B12
Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Copper Sulfate, Menadione Sodium
Bisulfite Complex (source of vitamin K activity), Rosemary Extract, Citric
Acid, Cholecalciferol, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine
Mononitrate, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Folic Acid, Dried Bacillus licheniformis
Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Cobalt
Carbonate, Sodium Selenite, Artificial Color. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 13%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 6%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is low in protein, which
is of no good for any species of hamster. Alongside that any diabetes prone
species are only going to find trouble with mix as various ingredients are too
high in sugar; some of the ingredients cannot even be picked out such as the dried
cane molasses and the honey. Picking out too many ingredients can throw off the
balance of a food anyway. I would not recommend this mix for any species of
hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<br />
<b><u>Kaytee Supreme Daily Blend Hamster
and Gerbil Mix<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Rolled Corn</span></b>,
Rolled Oat Groats, Rolled Barley, Sunflower, Soybean Meal, Peanuts, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Corn</span></b>,
Ground Wheat, Ground Oats, Wheat Middlings, Sun-cured Alfalfa Meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Cane Molasses</span></b>,
Calcium Carbonate, Fish Meal, Salt, Brewers Dried Yeast, Lignin Sulfonate,
Dicalcium Phosphate, DL-Methionine, Iron Oxide, Vitamin A Supplement, Choline
Chloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement,
Soy Oil, Copper Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Zinc Oxide, Niacin,
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of vitamin K activity),
Cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine
Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Folic Acid, Cobalt
Carbonate, Sodium Selenite.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude protein (min.) 14%<br />
Crude fat (min.) 14%<br />
Crude fibre (max.) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is not suitable for
diabetic hamsters or for diabetes prone species due to various ingredients that
are not suitable for a low sugar diet (bolded in blue). The fat content is way
too much for a hamster where 4-5% is far more suitable. The protein is too low
in this mix where it would be better between 17%-22%. I would not recommend
this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Living World
Classic Hamster Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Wheat, white millet, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn</span></b>, red milo, wheat shorts, oat groats,
dehydrated alfalfa meal, wheat middlings, black oil sunflower seed, dried green
split peas, ground wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried banana</span></b>, soybean meal, safflower seed, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried papaya</span></b>,
dehulled peanuts, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried carrot flakes, dried carrot</span></b>, calcium
carbonate, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn
gluten meal</span></b>, dried beet pulp, orange oil (preserved with mixed
tocopherols and citric acid), salt, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">cane molasses</span></b>, vitamins (vitamin E supplement,
vitamin B12 supplement, folic acid, niacin, d-calcium pantothenate, vitamin A
supplement, riboflavin, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, biotin,
menadione sodium bisulfite complex (source of vitamin K activity), vitamin D3
supplement), minerals (cobalt sulfate, ferrous sulfate, zinc oxide, sodium
selenite, copper sulfate, manganous oxide, calcium iodate), magnesium oxide,
lignin sulfonate, dicalcium phosphate, DL-methionine, calcium propionate
(preservative), sorbic acid (preservative), choline chloride, artificial colors
(Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 6, Titanium Dioxide).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 12%<br />
Fat 5.5%<br />
Fibre 8%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is too low in protein to be suitable for any
species of hamsters. The fat and fibre contents are within reason though. The mix also contains various ingredients that
are not favourable for a diabetes prone/ diabetic hamster. I would not
recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Living World Extrusion
Pellets<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground corn</span></b>,
soybean meal, ground wheat, wheat middlings, calcium carbonate, dicalcium
phosphate, dehydrated alfalfa meal, dried beet pulp, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn gluten meal</span></b>, ground
dehulled peanuts, yeast culture, salt, lecithin, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">sugar</span></b>, choline chloride,
DL-methionine, L-lysine, yeast extract, manganous oxide, zinc oxide, ferrous
sulfate, vitamin E supplement, niacin, yucca schidigera extract, d-calcium
pantothenate, copper sulfate, vitamin A supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin,
menadione sodium bisulfite complex (source of vitamin K activity), pyridoxine
hydrochloride, calcium iodate, thiamine mononitrate, folic acid, cobalt
carbonate, vitamin D3 supplement, biotin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 15%<br />
Fat 3.5%<br />
Fibre 4.5%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This lab block is low in protein, fibre and even the fat
content falls short. The ingredients are not friendly for a diabetes prone/
diabetic hamster, they even include sugar. I would not recommend this food for
any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">LM Farms Hamster and Gerbil<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Wheat middlings, soybean hulls, dehydrated alfalfa meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">whole corn</span></b>,
whole wheat, red milo, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">cane molasses</span></b>, dehulled soybean meal, flaxseed
meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn
flakes</span></b>, oat groats, ground corn, salt, lignin sulfonate, black
oil sunflower seeds, ground limestone, choline chloride, DL-methionine, soybean
oil, rolled oats, vitamin E supplement, sodium selenite, ferrous sulfate,
magnesium oxide, niacin supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, manganese sulfate,
calcium pantothenate, zinc oxide, thiamine mononitrate, pyridoxine
hydrochloride, copper sulfate, biotin, vitamin A acetate, cobalt carbonate,
zinc sulfate, riboflavin supplement, ethylenediamine dihydriodide, menadione
sodium bisulfite complex, calcium propionate (a perservative), color added
(yellow #5), blue #1, yellow #6 lake, titanium dioxide, red #40), vitamin D3 supplement,
folic acid.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min.) 11%<br />
Crude Fat (min.) 4%<br />
Crude Fibre (max.) 7%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The protein content is rather low
in this mix, already knocking down this food to an undesirable position.
This mix is also not suitable for any species that is prone to diabetes or for
any diabetic hamster due to the ingredients bolded in blue. Over all I would
not recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">LM Animal Farms Bonanza Gourmet Diet Hamster and Gerbil<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Whole corn</span></b>,
wheat middlings, oat groats, red milo, whole wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">ground corn</span></b>, dehydrated alfalfa
meal, green
split peas, white millet, dehulled soybean meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn flakes</span></b>,
striped sunflower seeds, black oil sunflower seeds, toasted wheat flakes,
pumpkin seed, navy beans, shelled peanuts, Canadian trapper peas, soybean
hulls, raisins, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried carrots, corn gluten meal, cane molasses</span></b>,
ground limestone, soybean oil, dicalcium phosphate, safflower seeds, vegetable
oil, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried
bananas, dried papaya</span></b>, shelled almonds, rolled oats, salt, choline
chloride, lignin sulfonate, brewers dried yeast, mineral oil, artificial orange
flavor, potassium chloride, l-lysine, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn distillers</span></b>, dried grains,
l-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate, dl-methionine, vitamin E supplement, vitamin E
supplement, condensed whey fermentation solubles, propionic acid, ferrous
sulfate, sodium selenate, vitamin A acetate, rice hulls, magnesium oxide, color
added (yellow #5, yellow #6 lake, blue #1, titanium dioxide, red #40, yellow
#6), artificial apple flavor, niacin supplement, calcium pantothenate, yucca
schidigera extract, zinc oxide, manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, vitamin D3
supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, zinc sulfate, calcium propionate, manganous
oxide, thiamine mononitrate, biotin, mixed tocopherols, silicone dioxide,
citric acid, riboflavin supplement, folic acid, menadione sodium bisulfite
complex, rosemary extract, ethylendiamine dihydriodidie, pyridoxine
hydrochloride, sodium selenate, cobalt carbonate, vitamine A supplement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude protein (min.) 15%<br />
Crude fat (min.) 6%<br />
Crude fibre (max.) 7%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix has a host of
ingredients (bolded in blue) that are not suitable for a diabetic hamster's
diet, making it a poor choice for a diabetic hamster or for a species that is
prone to diabetes. Even for Syrian hamsters or for Roborovski dwarf hamsters
this mix would still not work due to the low protein and higher fat
percentages. I would not recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mazuri Hamster and Gerbil<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Dehulled soybean meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">ground corn</span></b>, soybean oil, ground wheat, wheat
middlings, dehydrated alfalfa meal, dried beet pulp, ground oats, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">cane molasses</span></b>,
ground soybean hulls, lignin sulfonate, dicalcium phosphate, monocalcium
phosphate, wheat germ, calcium carbonate, brewers dried yeast, salt, calcium
propionate, DL-methionine, choline chloride, menadione dimethylpyrimidinol
bisulfite (vitamin K), dried yucca shidigera extract, pyridoxine hydrochloride,
cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), vitamin A acetate, folic acid, d-alpha tocopheryl
acetate (natural source vitamin E), thiamin mononitrate, calcium pantothenate,
nicotinic acid, riboflavin, vitamin B12 supplement, manganous oxide, zinc
oxide, ferrous carbonate, copper sulfate, zinc sulfate, calcium iodate, cobalt
carbonate, sodium selenite. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed analysis:</b><br />
Crude protein (min.) 22%<br />
Crude fat (min.) 6%<br />
Crude fibre (max.) 6%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is a lab block, which is
basically a compressed pellet. It is debated whether lab blocks or seed mixes
are better. The benefit of the lab block is that a hamster cannot throw off the
balance of the food by being picky as they cannot leave anything behind. This
block is not suitable for diabetes prone species as the corn nor can the
molasses be picked out. However for Syrians or roborovski dwarf hamsters this
lab block would be suitable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>Mucki
Men</u>ü Plus</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Barley, wheat, <b style="color: #0070c0;">maize,
</b>peas, pea flakes, carob, wheat flakes, bean flakes, sorghum, <b><span style="color: #0070c0;">sweet peas</span></b>,
wheat emolina bran, <b><span style="color: #0070c0;">carrot chunks</span></b>, striped sunflower seeds, white
sunflower seeds, peanut kernels, turnip rape, sunflower seeds, oats, greaves
meal, bruised soya grain (GM-free), safflower seeds, parsnip, dari, paddy rice,
puffed wheat, <b><span style="color: red;">leeks</span></b>,
hemp seed, parsley, poultry protein hydrolysate, sodium chloride.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 16%<br />
Fat 5.9%<br />
Fibre 7.7%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is a bit low in protein, a
bit low in fibre and is alright for fat content, though it is at the higher end
of the spectrum of what we want. The ingredients highlighted in blue are
indicative that this mix would not be ideal for diabetes prone/ diabetic
hamsters. The leeks are also not safe for any species of hamster, being a part of the leek family I would not recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oxbow
Essentials for Hamsters and Gerbils<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Timothy Meal, Pearled Barley (Rolled), Oat Groats, Linseed (Flax) Meal,
Canola Meal, Wheat Gluten, Millet, Ground Flax Seed, Canola Oil, Limestone,
Salt, Dried Yeast Culture (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), Vitamin E Supplement,
Choline Chloride, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin,
Copper Sulfate, Selenium Yeast, Vitamin A Supplement, Folic Acid, d-Calcium
Pantothenate, Copper Proteinate, Riboflavin Supplement, Manganese Proteinate,
Biotin, Manganous Oxide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Magnesium Sulfate, Vitamin B12
Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Cobalt Carbonate,
Vitamin D3 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Mixed Tocopherols, Rosemary Extract.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 15%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 4.50%<br />
Crude Fibre (min) 11%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is another lab blocks (compressed pellet) that while
lacking in variety, was once nutritionally sound. It was a lab block that was
suitable for all species. However recently the protein level was dropped from
17% to 15% rendering this food no longer suitable for any species of hamster.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Premium Hamster
Muesli by Pets at Home<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Flaked peas,
rabbit pellets (oat feed, Wheat feed, Sunflower, Grass, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">molasses</span></b>, Vegetable fat), extruded
biscuits (Wheat, Oat feed, Non GM Soya), <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Flaked maze</span></b>, toasted wheat flakes, wheat,
Sunflower seeds, Peanuts, Poultry fat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Banana Flakes</span></b><span style="color: #00b0f0;"> </span>(min
1%), Minerals & vitamins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 16%<br />
Fat 7%<br />
Fibre 8%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is a bit low in protein, and the fat content is
higher than should be desired. The fibre content is within reason at any rate.
There are some ingredients that are not suitable for diabetes prone/diabetic
hamsters. This mix could be alright if no better food was available, but I
would only use it for Syrians or Roborovskis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Purina Little Wonders <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Wheat Middlings, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Whole Corn</span></b>, Striped Sunflower Seeds, Whole Red
Wheat, Whole Barley, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Dehulled Soybean Meal, Green Split
Peas,<b style="color: #00b0f0;"> Corn Distillers Dried Grains, Cane Molasses, Ground Corn</b>,
Calcium Carbonate, Safflower Seeds, Ground Rice Hulls, Pumpkin Seeds, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Dried Banana</span></b>,
Salt, L-Lysine, DL-Methionine, Soybean Oil, Choline Chloride, Magnesium Oxide,
Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement,
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source of Vitamin K), DL-Alpha Tocopheryl
Acetate (Source of Vitamin E), Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Copper
Sulfate, Folic Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Vitamin A Acetate,
Active Dried Yeast, Brewers Dried Yeast, Biotin, Betaine Anhydrous, Niacin
Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Propionic Acid (a preservative), Dried
Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried
Yucca Shidigera Extract, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Ground Papaya</span></b>, Cobalt Carbonate, Zinc Oxide,
Manganese Sulfate, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide, Copper Chloride, Sodium
Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Ferrous Sulfate, Cobalt Sulfate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background: white; border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
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</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;" valign="bottom"></td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;" valign="bottom"></td>
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<td style="padding: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;" valign="bottom"></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein: 16%<br />
Crude Fat: 5%<br />
Crude Fibre: 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is mix has good fat and
fibre levels. The protein really could be a bit higher, but this mix would do
just fine if no others were available. I would not recommend this mix for
hamsters that have or are prone to diabetes due to certain ingredients (bolded
in blue), but for Syrian and Roborovski dwarf hamsters it would be ok to use if
better foods were unavailable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Purina Garden Recipe Hamster and Gerbil Diet<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Wheat middlings, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">whole corn</span></b>, striped sunflower seeds, whole red
wheat, whole barley, dehydrated alfalfa meal, dehulled soybean meal, green split
peas, corn distiller's dried grains, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">cane molasses, ground corn</span></b>, oat
groats, calcium carbonate, safflower seeds, ground rice hulls, pumpkin
seeds, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dried
banana, dried carrot flakes</span></b>, salt, L-lysine, DL-methionine, soybean
oil, choline chloride, magnesium oxide, thiamine mononitrate, pyridoxine
hydrochloride, vitamin D3 supplement, menadione sodium bisulfite complex
(source of vitamin K), Dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate (source of vitamin E), zinc
sulfate, vitamin B12 supplement, copper sulfate, folic acid, calcium
pantothenate, riboflavin, vitamin A acetate, active dried yeast, brewer's dried
yeast, biotin, betaine anhydrous, niacin supplement, ascorbic acid (vitamin C),
propionic acid, dried aspergillus niger fermentation extract, dried
lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried enterococcus faecium
fermentation product, dried yucca schidigera extract, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">ground papaya</span></b>, cobalt carbonate,
zinc oxide, manganese sulfate, ethylenediamine dihydriodide, copper chloride,
sodium selenite, calcium iodate, ferrous sulfate and cobalt sulfate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 16%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 5%<br />
Crude Fibre (max) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix has good fibre and fat
percentages, and while the protein content could be higher it is ok
if no better food is available. Due to certain ingredients (bolded in blue)
which would not be good for a diabetic hamster, I would not recommend this mix
for a species that is prone to diabetes, nor for a diabetic hamster. For
Syrians or roborovski dwarf hamsters it is an ok mix to use if a better
alternative is unavailable.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ratRations Syrian
mix - no fruits added<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Flaked soya, buckwheat, egg biscuit, flaked peas,
lentils, flaked wheat, flaked buckwheat, burns kibble, flaked rye, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">whole maize</span></b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">,</span> wheat, puffed spelt, safflower, bran sticks,
flaked barley, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">flaked maize</span></b>, flaked millet, dry roast
peanuts, small sunflower, groats, paddy rice, pearl barley, puffed millet, pumpkin
seed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 19.1%<br />
Fat 6.1%<br />
Fibre 7.9%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix has great protein, fat, and fibre levels and the
ingredients are just fine for Syrian and Roborovski dwarfs. For those that are
prone to diabetes or are diabetic there are a few ingredients that would not
make this mix ideal. I would recommend this mix for Syrians and roborovski
dwarfs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ratRations Syrian
mix - with Apple<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Flaked soya, buckwheat, egg biscuit, flaked peas,
lentils, flaked wheat, flaked buckwheat, burns kibble, flaked rye, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">whole maize</span></b>,
wheat, puffed spelt, safflower, bran sticks, flaked barley, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">flaked maize</span></b>,
flaked millet, dry roast peanuts, small sunflower, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">chopped dried apple slices</span></b>,
groats, paddy rice, pearl barley, puffed millet, pumpkin seed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 19.1%<br />
Fat 6.1%<br />
Fibre 7.9%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The protein, fat, and fibre content in this mix are all at
good levels for a hamster, and while there are ingredients that would be best
avoided in a diabetic/diabetes prone hamster's diet, this mix is one that
I would recommend for Syrians and roborovski dwarfs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ratRations Syrian
mix - with Banana<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Flaked soya, buckwheat, egg biscuit, flaked peas,
lentils, flaked wheat, flaked buckwheat, burns kibble, flaked rye, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">whole maize</span></b>,
wheat, puffed spelt, safflower, bran sticks, flaked barley, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">flaked maize</span></b>,
flaked millet, dry roast peanuts, small sunflower, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">crushed dried banana chips</span></b>,
groats, paddy rice, pearl barley, puffed millet, pumpkin seed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 19.1%<br />
Fat 6.1%<br />
Fibre 7.9%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix has good fibre, fat and protein percentages and the
ingredients are suitable for Syrians and/ or Roborovski dwarfs. Due to certain
ingredients (highlighted in blue) this mix would not
be best for diabetic or diabetes prone hamsters. I would
recommend this mix for Roborovski dwarfs and Syrians.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sun Seed Sunscrition Vita Prima Hamster and Gerbil Formula<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
White Millet, Wheat, Milo, <b>Whole
Corn</b>, Sunflower Seed, Oats, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Wheat Middlings,
Soybean Hulls, Peanuts, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Kibbled Corn</span></b>, Flaked Wheat, Dehulled Soybean
Meal, Dried Egg Product, <b style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn Gluten Meal, </b>Split Green Peas,<b style="color: #00b0f0;"> Ground Corn</b>,
Calcium Carbonate, Ground Flax Seed, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Corn Distillers Dried Grain</span></b>, Ground Oat
Groats, Ground Wheat, Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Yucca Schidigera Extract,
L-Lysine, Vegetable Oil, Niger Seed, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride,
Magnesium Oxide, Potassium Sulfate, Magnesium Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement,
Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin B12
Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Menadione
Dimethylpyrimidinol Bisulfite (Source of Vitamin K Activity), Potassium Iodide,
Biotin, Folic Acid, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Zinc
Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide, Ferrous Sulfate,
Manganese Sulfate, Cobalt Sulfate, DL-Methionine, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate
(Source of Vitamin C), Sodium Selenite, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Sugar, Honey</span></b>, Dried
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Product, Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried
Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation
Product, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Product, Torula Dried Yeast,
Dried Trichoderma Viride Fermentation Product, Color Added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min): 12%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 4%<br />
Crude Fibre (max) 14%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking at the protein we can see
that this mix is already not a good choice as it is far too low in protein.
Beyond that there are several ingredients (bolded in blue) that make it
unsuitable for diabetic hamsters, even sugar has been added to this mix. I
would not recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<br />
<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Supreme Pets Food Hazel Hamster (Note: Different than Harry Hamster)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Flaked whole wheat, ground whole wheat, pelleted soybean meal, dehydrated
alfalfa pellets<b style="color: #00b0f0;">, whole
corn, </b>flaked peas,<b style="color: #00b0f0;"> flaked whole corn</b>, sunflower seeds, flaked
soybeans, peanut kernels, kibbled locust beans, soybean oil (<b><span style="color: red;">preserved with BHT</span></b>),
peanuts in shell, pumpkin seeds, wheat middlings, salt, calcium carbonate,
sodium sulfate, vitamins (vitamin E supplement, choline chloride, niacin,
d-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride [vitamin b6], vitamin a
supplement, riboflavin [vitamin b2], thiamine hydrochloride [vitamin b1], folic
acid, biotin, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin d3 supplement), minerals (zinc
oxide, manganese oxide, iron sulfate, copper sulfate, calcium iodate, cobalt
carbonate, sodium selenite), added fd&c colors (yellow 6, yellow 5, blue
1).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 18%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 5%<br />
Crude Fibre (max) 9%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is one of the more
recommended mixes available. The protein, fat and fibre levels are all at
good percentages and the ingredients are not full of treats. The foods that are
not suitable for diabetic hamsters (bolded in blue) can be easily
picked out, and there is not an overabundance of them so picking them out
does not throw off the balance of the mix. I would recommend this mix as is for
Roborovski dwarfs as well as Syrian hamsters. For diabetes-prone species I
would recommend this mix so long as the corn (whole and flaked) are picked out. The ingredient BHT (bolded in red) is debated to be unsafe for
hamsters, I myself do not personally subscribe to that, however it is widely
debated and I recommend that anyone wishing to feed this food do some of their
own reading so as to make their own educated guess.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>Supreme Pets Food Harry Hamster (Note: Different than Hazel Hamster</u>)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Lucerne meal (alfalfa), <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">flaked maize</span></b>, soya, wheat flour, maize,
flaked wheat, flaked peas, oats, sunflower seeds (min 4%), locust bean,
peanuts (min 2%), flaked soybeans, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">banana</span></b>, fenugreek oil, soy oil, minerals.
Additives: Colourants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 19%<br />
Fat 5%<br />
Fibre 8%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is different than the
Hazel Hamster one, it is usually found in the UK or throughout Europe. It is
still a good mix, though more so for Syrians and Roborovski dwarf hamsters than
the other species. The ingredients bolded in blue are not suitable for diabetic
hamsters nor for hamsters that are prone to diabetes, they can be picked out
however just as they can in Hazel Hamster mix, but the banana must also be
removed. Over all I would recommend this mix for Syrians and Roborovski dwarfs
and for diabetes-prone species so long as the maize (corn) ingredients and the banana were picked out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Supreme Science Selective Hamster<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Whole meal wheat flour, soybean meal, barley, oats, linseed, soya oil,
dicalcium phosphate, limestone flour, salt, Vitamin A 15000 IU, Vitamin D3 1500
IU.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 19%<br />
Fat Content 5%<br />
Crude fibre 5%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is a lab block (compressed
pellet), while lab blocks are debated to not be suitable due to the
lack of variety, this one would be suitable for any species of hamster. The
fibre content could be higher but adding higher fibre foods in their diet
alongside this such as broccoli, kale, bok choy and/or timothy hay could help
to balance that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tesco Everyday Value Gerbil and Hamster Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Wheat, Peas,
Wheatfeed, Oatfeed, Oats, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Maize</span></b>, Sunflower Meal, Peanuts, Sunflower
Seeds, Vegetable Oil, Grass, Minerals, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Apple, Grape</span></b>, Carob Meal, Linseed,
Additives (Per Kg), Nutritional Additives, Vitamin A 8000iu/kg, Vitamin D3
1000iu/kg, Vitamin E 40mg/kg, Trace Elements, Iron 480mg/kg, Iodine 0.7mg/kg,
Copper 3mg/kg, Managanese 14mg/kg, Zinc 11mg/kg, Sodium 0.004mg/kg,
Antioxidants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 14%<br />
Fat 7%<br />
Crude Fibre 8%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is low in protein and so
is unsuitable for any species of hamster; along with that, the fat content is a
bit too high too. There are a few ingredients present that are also not
suitable for diabetic hamsters, all bolded in blue. Over all I would not
recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tesco Hamster Food Peanut and Sunflower Seed<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Maize</span></b>,
Wheat, Peas,
Soya, Wheatfeed, Oatfeed, Peanuts (min 4%), Sunflower Seeds (min 4%),
Grass, Sunflower Ext, Vitamins & Minerals, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Apple, Grape</span></b>, Vegetable Oil,
Carob Meal, Linseed, Additives (per Kg), Nutritional Additives, TempText3 12000
iu/kg, TempText4 1000 iu/kg, TempText5 40 mg/kg. Trace Elements, TempText6 300
mg/kg, TempText7 0.6mg/kg, TempText8 2.5 mg/kg, TempText9 12 mg/kg, TempText10
10 mg/kg, TempText11 10 mg/kg. Antioxidant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 16%<br />
Fat 9%<br />
Crude Fibre 7%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is high in fat content,
as suggested by its name. While sunflower seeds are beneficial and peanuts are
alright as a treat they should not be the main component of a food. It is also
not suitable for diabetic hamsters due to the presence of the ingredients
listed above that are bolded in blue. Over all this mix could be ok for a
Syrian or a Roborovski dwarf, but only if something better was not available
and even then I would recommend to keep looking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Versele-Laga Hamster Nature Complete<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Grains (9% corn flakes, oat flakes, and popcorn), vegetables (18.5% of which
1.5% <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">carrots</span></b>
and 5% beetroot), derivatives of vegetable origin, seeds (11%), fruit (7.5% of
which 9.5% <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">apricot</span></b>,
9.5% <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">pineapple</span></b>,
12.5% <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">banana</span></b>,
12.5% <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">papaya</span></b>,
12.5% <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">raisins</span></b>
and 38% carob.), vegetable protein extracts, nuts (5%), minerals, yeast, FOS,
herbs, calendula., <o:p></o:p>vitamins A, E and D3, copper,
E320, E321, E102, E132, E110, E124.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 17%<br />
Fat 8.5%<br />
Crude Fibre 7%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is rather high in fat
content and is a tad low in fibre content. The protein is on the lower end as
well. The ingredients highlighted in blue indicate that this mix would not be
ideal for hamsters prone to diabetes or for those that have diabetes. The packaging
of this brand only provides limited information on ingredients as well, which
is not altogether helpful for analysing the quality of the mix. Overall I would
not recommend this mix mostly due to the high fat content. It could be alright
for Syrian or Roborovski hamsters if no other more suitable mix was available.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Versele-Laga Mini Hamster Nature Complete<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Barley, wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">maize</span></b>,
oatmeal flakes, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">maize
flakes</span></b>, rice, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">puffed maize</span></b>, puffed wheat, puffed rice, peas,
beetroot, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">carrot</span></b>,
tick bean flakes, pea flakes, wheat bran, soy meal non-gmo,
sunflower seed meal, sunflower, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">pumpkin seed</span></b>, linseed, safflower, carob, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">bananas, papaya,
raisins, apricot, pineapple, cranberry, elderberry, apple</span></b>, soy protein
non-gmo, peanuts, calcium carbonate, monocalcium phosphate, salt, brewers’
yeast, fructo-oligosaccharides, marjoram, oregano, thyme, mint, <b><span style="color: red;">garlic</span></b>,
calendula, <o:p></o:p>vitamins A, E and D3, copper,
E320, E321, E102, E132, E110, E124.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 14%<br />
Fat 7.5%<br />
Fibre 6%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is too low in protein,
too high in fat content and too low in protein. It is not suitable for diabetes
prone/ diabetic hamsters either due to some of the ingredients present (bolded
in blue). The addition of garlic in the mix renders it unsafe for any species
of hamster too as garlic is hard on their kidneys. I would not recommend this
mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Versele-Laga
Hamster Crispy<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b> <br />
Wheat bran, soy meal non-gmo, sunflower seed meal, wheat, barley, buckwheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">maize</span></b>,
puffed wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">puffed
maize</span></b>, puffed rice, peas, pea flakes,<b style="color: #00b0f0;"> carrot</b>, calcium carbonate,
monocalcium phosphate, salt, sunflower, safflower, pumpkin seed, linseed,
carob, peanuts, vitamins A, E and D3, Copper, E320, E321, E102, E132, E110,
E124.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 15%<br />
Fat 10%<br />
Fibre 7%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is low in protein content as well as fibre content.
The fat content is a bit too high as well. The mix itself is rather basic, with
several ingredients that are not beneficial to diabetes prone/ diabetic
hamsters. Overall I would not recommend this food for any species.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vitakraft Emotion
Beauty Hamster Food<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Cereals (12% <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn
flakes</span></b>, 5% oat), derivatives of vegetable origin, vegetables (5.6%
bean flakes, 5.6% pea flakes), <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">fruits</span></b>, nuts (4% peanuts),
molluscs and crustaceans (2% shrimps), milk and milk derivatives, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">sugar cane molasses</span></b>,
minerals, oils and fats, aloe vera concentrate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 15%<br />
Fat [not listed]<br />
Fibre 9%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is low in protein, and the fat content is not
available. The fibre content is suitable however. The ingredient information is
limited though with what is available, this mix does not seem suitable for
diabetes prone/ diabetic hamsters. Based on the lack of information available
alongside the low protein levels, I would not recommend this mix for any
species.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vitakraft Menu Hamster<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Milo, dehydrated alfalfa meal, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">ground corn</span></b>, wheat, wheat middlings, soybean
hulls, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">flaked
corn</span></b>, sunflower seed, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">steel-cut corn</span></b>, steam-rolled oats, carob pods,
oats, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">whole
corn</span></b>, dehulled soybean meal, steam-rolled peas, split green peas,
heat-processed soybean flakes, puffed wheat, heat processed wheat flakes,
shelled peanuts, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn gluten meal</span></b>, calcium carbonate, corn
distiller's dried grains with solubles, ground flax seed, ground wheat,
dicalcium phosphate, monocalcium phosphate, ground oat groats, salt, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">dehydrated
carrots</span></b>, l-lysine, vegetable oil, potassium chloride, magnesium
oxide, vitamin A supplement, choline chloride, algae meal, yeast culture,
ground steam-rolled oats, dl-methionine, dried lactobacillus acidophilus
fermentation product, dried lactobacillus casei fermentation product, dried
enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried bifidobacterium bifidum
fermentation product, dried aspergillus oryzae fermentation product, torula
dried yeast, yucca schidigera extract, fructooligosaccharide, vitamin D3
supplement, vitamin E supplement, niacin supplement, vitamin B12 supplement,
riboflavin supplement, d-calcium pantothenate, menadione sodium bisulfite complex,
biotin, folic acid, thiamine mononitrate, pyridoxine hydrochloride,
l-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate, zinc sulfate, ferrous sulfate, manganese sulfate,
manganous oxide, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, cobalt sulfate, sodium
selenite, yellow 5, yellow 6, blue 1 and titanium dioxide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 13%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 4%<br />
Crude Fibre (max) 12%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Starting off
by looking at the guaranteed analysis we can see that this mix is not
good to start with due to the low protein percentage. Then looking to the
ingredients we see that there are various ingredients that are not suitable for
diabetic hamsters (bolded in blue). So this mix is not recommended for any
species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vitakraft Vitasmart Hamster<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Soybean hulls, wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">flaked corn</span></b>, oats, dehulled soybean meal,
carob pods, puffed wheat, flaked soybeans, flaked peas, wheat middlings,
dehydrated alfalfa meal, ground wheat, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">ground corn</span></b>, timothy grass hay,
peanuts, chopped timothy grass hay, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">corn gluten meal</span></b>, dried plain beet pulp,
calcium carbonate, ground flaxseed, corn distillers dried grains with
solubles, dicalcium phosphate, monocalcium phosphate, salt, cane molasses,
L-lysine, vegetable oil, wheat germ meal<b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">, apple juice concentrate</span></b>, potassium
chloride, magnesium oxide, vitamin A supplement, choline chloride, ground
steam-rolled oats, DL-methionine, dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation
product, dried lactobacillus casei fermentation product, dried enterococcus
faecium fermentation product, dried bifidobacterium bifidum fermentation
product, dried aspergillus oryzae fermentation product, torula dried yeast,
yucca schidigera extract, fructooligosaccharide, algae meal, yeast culture,
dehydrated parsley, vitamin D3 supplement, vitamin E supplement, niacin
supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin supplement, d-calcium
pantothenate, menadione sodium bisulfite complex, biotin, folic acid, thiamine
mononitrate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate, zinc
sulfate, ferrous sulfate, manganese sulfate, manganous oxide, copper sulfate,
potassium iodide, manganese methionine complex, copper lysine complex, zinc
methionine complex, cobalt glucoheptonate, cobalt sulfate, sodium selenite,
color added (Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1 titanium dioxide) and aloe vera gel
concentrate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Crude Protein (min) 16%<br />
Crude Fat (min) 3%<br />
Crude Fibre (max) 10%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is not suitable for
diabetic hamsters or diabetes prone species due to the various ingredients
(bolded in blue) that are not suitable for them. For Syrians or Roborovski
dwarf hamsters this mix could be ok if there was nothing better available as
the protein percentage is a bit lower than it should be and even then
only if 2-3 sunflower seeds were added to your hamster's diet daily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wagg Hamster Gerbil Mouse Munch<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Wheat, Wheatfeed, Oatfeed, Toasted Soya, Peas, Sunflower Ext., <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Flaked Maize,
Whole Maize</span></b>, Peanuts (4%), Sunflower Seeds (4%), Vegetable Oil,
Lucerne, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">Apple,
Grape, Syrup</span></b>, Grass, Minerals, Linseed (0.4%), Carob Meal, Yeast (0.05%),
Vitamin A 8,000 iu, Vitamin D3 1,200 iu, Vitamin E (alpha tocopherol acetate)
40 iu. Trace Elements: Iron (iron lll ferric oxide) 450 mg, Iron (iron
sulphate) 2.5 mg, Iodine (calcium iodate) 0.8 mg, Copper (cupric sulphate
pentahydrate) 3 mg, Manganese (manganous oxide) 15 mg, Zinc (zinc oxide) 12 mg,
Zinc (zinc chelate) 12 mg, *Colourants, Antioxidant.<br />
*Colourants - from a mineral source found in nature.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis:</b><br />
Protein 16%<br />
Fat 10%<br />
Crude Fibre 9%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking first at the protein we
see that it is just a bit below what is recommended, the fibre is at a decent
level, but when we look at the fat content it is double what it should be.
Looking at this food for diabetic hamsters or those prone to it, there are
various ingredients (bolded in blue) that would not do for a low sugar diet.
Over all I would not recommend this mix for any species as the fat content is
too high.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wilko Original Hamster Mix<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Pellets, flaked barley, <b><span style="color: #00b0f0;">flaked maize</span></b>, flaked wheat, flaked peas,
sunflower seeds, peanuts, soya oil, vitamins & minerals, EC permitted
colourants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Guaranteed Analysis: </b><br />
Protein 12%<br />
Fat 6%<br />
Fibre 8.5%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This mix is very basic, with the
protein percentage being too low for any species of hamster. If the mix
was better quality than it could have been ok for diabetes prone
species as only the maize (corn) would need to be picked out. As
it is, I would not recommend this mix for any species of hamster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;">A Thank You</span></u></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br />
I would like to thank everyone on Hamster Hideout for their help and
encouragement in this project. Specifically I would like to thank (in no
specific order) HoppingHammy, Azayles, SyrianPumpkin, Luci, and the Taxonomist
for your contributions. I would also like to thank "Squeeze", a
follower of my blog and a fellow blogger. I would also like to thank Ely
Vihavainen and Ingrid Haugland, both of whom made wonderful contributions to
this project.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>References</u></b><br />
Alongside the lovely people noted above I found much of the information through
these websites:<br />
<a href="http://www.petsmart.com/" title="External link">PetsMart</a><br />
<a href="http://www.petco.com/" title="External link">PetCo</a><br />
<a href="http://www.petsathome.com/" title="External link">Pets at Home</a><br />
<a href="http://www.hamsterhideout.com/forum/" title="">Hamster Hideout</a></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.ratrations.com/" target="_blank">ratRations</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">
<br />
<b><u>Still Needed</u></b><br />
-Pets at Home Hamster Nuggets (need ingredients as well as protein, fat, and
fibre content)<br />
-Beaphar Xtra-Vital Hamster Food (need ingredients plus protein, fibre, and fat
content)<br />
-Beaphar Xtra-Vital Dwarf Hamster Food (need ingredients plus protein, fibre,
and fat content)<br />
-Any others not listed above with ingredients, fat, fibre, and protein content. </span></span></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-25470315731726862962012-10-08T00:15:00.004-04:002012-10-08T00:15:35.052-04:00Rest In Peace Bones<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Today while helping out with Thanksgiving dinner I escaped for a few minutes to give Bones some carrot, I thought about just leaving it in her dish, but decided I would give it straight to her as I hadn't seen her up last night when I went to sleep. Ever since her seizure, back when her sister passed away, I've taken to checking on her when I can without overdoing it. I found her gone, in her sleep. I have had several hamsters go in their sleep, but she looked the most peaceful of any of them. It was really hard to believe she was gone, even though she was an elder hamster.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I got Bones back in April 20, 2010 as little thing along with her sister, Rory, from a girl about an hour away from me who had an accidental litter. How a pair of roborovskis ended up around here I might never know, though I suspect their original owners got the parents from the US. There are no roborovskis around here, I remember being so excited on my way to get them. Not just because I was going to have two new hamsters in my life, but because I was going to see robos for the first time ever in real life. She was named after a character from Star Trek (Leonard "Bones" McCoy).</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Bones was shy from the start and stayed that way most of her life. While she did end up letting me handle her from time to time, usually to do a health check, she was much more content to live her life with as little human contact as possible. Bones and her sister were lucky to enjoy a big enough cage that they didn't need to depend too much on me for stimulation and excitement. But they provided me with hours of entertainment.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">When Rory passed away, Bones was not happy. She suffered from at least two seizures, which I think were stress induced. But slowly she started coming out of her nest more, eating more food and even playing again. She just kept on keeping on. The biggest change in her behaviour once her sister passed was that she was a little more vocal in her protests against me bothering her, or handling her. Although food was always appreciated, even if it had to be taken from my hands, hehe.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I may not have been able to handle Bones much, but she was a special girl and I will truly miss her. She was my second longest living hamster.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52005-1.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52005-1.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52022.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52022.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam59008.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam59008.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam71017.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam71017.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam73020.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam73020.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Thanksgiving 2010:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam77014.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam77014.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam201184007.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam201184007.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">First day in the detolf:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam99013.jpg" height="224" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam99013.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam01027.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam01027.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Halloween 2011:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollycam0313nov2011032.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollycam0313nov2011032.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam0629dec2011039.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam0629dec2011039.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/DSCF5612.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/DSCF5612.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5961.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5961.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I am glad that they are together again.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52011-1.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52011-1.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">*~Rest in Peace Bones~*</span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-37282827646879769252012-08-31T15:19:00.003-04:002012-08-31T15:27:00.109-04:00Rest Peacefully Anna<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anna came
to me from a member on Hamster Hideout, Mika, who's family member (cousin I believe) found
little Anna and another hamster outside near his home. The two of them were
outside and completely unprotected. After hearing the story I couldn't help but
want to take one in and soon Anna came to live with me after spending some
quality time with Mika until I could get down to Toronto.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">
<br />
Anna proved to be a bold and friendly hamster, quick to learn that humans mean
food, treats, water and time out of her home for some fun. She would always
come out to greet me whenever I stepped into my room, even if I tried to be
quiet. She never bit and was quick to win over the rest of my family. She was
only with me for just over two months though. When I came home from work on
August 28 after midnight I talked with my Mum for a bit and than went upstairs
to greet the hamsters. Bones was busy foraging in her food dish. Yet when I
looked for Anna I quickly noticed she wasn't burrowing, or running on her wheel
or jumping up and down to get my attention. Instead she lay very still inside
of on of her hideouts. Peaceful, like she was having a good dream, and her head
rested against the side. I reached in to wake her, to find her body cool though
not yet stiff. She did not wake, she was already gone.<br />
<br />
My sister said she heard Anna running on her wheel just 20 minutes before I got
home from work, her wheel was the only one that made noise, so we know it was
her.<br />
<br />
I do not know what took her away from me, but I do miss my Anna Banana quite
terribly. She quickly became a heart hamster and I am in shock that she is gone
so soon, much too soon really. She couldn't have been over 4 or 5 months old.
She showed no symptoms, she wasn't sleeping more, she was eating and drinking
and doing everything else just fine. I don't know what to think of it except to
know that I did my best while she was with me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img alt="Posted Image" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/ripanna.jpg" /> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">A picture
from Mika to show me who I would be picking up from her<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7275/7417449656_07436dd57a.jpg" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7275/7417449656_07436dd57a.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="299" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">A picture
of her from her first day home with me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6123.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6123.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">On her
adventure to explore the 'hidden window'<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6170.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6170.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6183.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6183.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6188.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6188.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">On the old
swing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6278.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6278.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6284.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6284.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Eyes of
Ruby<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6301.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6301.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Rest In
Peace Anna. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 14px;">
</span></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-80015124423424702282012-08-24T10:34:00.001-04:002012-08-24T10:57:19.807-04:00A Call for Help!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am putting together something about different brands
and recipes of hamster foods. It's already a long list, but I am hoping to cover
as many mixes and lab blocks as possible. Basically just going through each one
to explain if it would be a good choice to feed or not, and why. It's been a
big project so far but I am hoping to be done within the next few days. My
biggest problem is that a lot of companies do not seem to like to represent
their own products very well. There are several foods that I am finding it
difficult to find an accurate ingredient list as well and some basic
nutritional information (namely protein, fat and fibre percentages).<br />
<br />
I had some great detectives help me find some information for one mix already
but I'm wondering if I can get some more help. Some of your help perhaps?<br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="color: red;">So far the
foods that I have completed on the list are these ones:</span></u></b><br />
-8 in 1 Ecotrition Essential Blend Hamster and Gerbil Food<br />
-8 in 1 Ecotrition Organic Blend Hamster and Gerbil Food<br />
-All Living Things Hamster and Gerbil Daily Diet<br />
-Burgess Supahamster Hamster Harvest<br />
-Burgess Supahamster Dwarf Hamster Harvest<br />
-CareFRESH Complete Menu Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-FM Brown's Natural Hamster Food with Vitamins and Minerals<br />
-FM Brown's Tropical Carnival Gourmet Food for Hamsters and Gerbils (thanks to
my detective friends)<br />
-Grreat Choice Hamster/Gerbil<br />
-Hamster Muesli by Pets at Home<br />
-Hartz Bonanza Hamster and Gerbil Diet [Thank you HoppingHammy from HH]<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat and Hamster Food<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Hamster and Gerbil Food<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Crunch Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Supreme Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Forti-Diet Hamster/Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Chunky Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Nature's Benefits Hamster and Gerbil Daily Diet<br />
-Kaytee Fiesta Max Hamster/Gerbil<br />
-Kaytee Supreme Daily Blend Hamster and Gerbil Mix<br />
-Living world Classic Hamster food [Thank you SyrianPumpkin from HH]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Living World Extrusion pellets [Thank you
SyrianPumpkin from HH]<br />
-LM Farms Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-LM Animal Farms Bonanza Gourmet Diet Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Mazuri Hamster and Gerbil<br />
-Oxbow Essentials for Hamsters and Gerbils<br />
-Premium Hamster Muesli by Pets at Home [Thank you SyrianPumpkin from HH]<br />
-Purina Little Wonders<br />
-Purina Garden Recipe Hamster and Gerbil Diet<br />
-Sun Seed Sunscrition Vita Prima Hamster and Gerbil Formula<br />
-Supreme Pets Food Hazel Hamster (Note: Different than Harry Hamster)<br />
-Supreme Pets Food Harry Hamster (Note: Different than Hazel Hamster)<br />
-Supreme Science Selective Hamster<br />
-Tesco Everyday Value Gerbil and Hamster Food<br />
-Tesco Hamster Food Peanut and Sunflower Seed<br />
-Vitakraft Menu Hamster<br />
-Vitakraft Vitasmart Hamster<br />
-Wagg Hamster Gerbil Mouse Munch<br />
-Wilko Original Hamster Mix<br />
<br />
(I didn't even realize how many I had until now!)<br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="color: red;">But I still
need some help with some more!:</span></u></b><br />
<br />
-Versele-Laga Mini Hamster Nature Complete (I need a more complete ingredient
list as well as fat, fibre, and protein content)<br />
-Versele-Laga Hamster Nature Complete (I need a more complete ingredient list
as well as protein, fat, and fibre)<br />
-Vitakraft Emotion Beauty Hamster Food (I need a more complete list of
ingredients as well as protein, fat, and fibre content)<br />
-Pets at Home Hamster Nuggets (need ingredients as well as protein, fat, and
fibre content)<br />
-Beaphar Care+ Hamster Food (Need ingredients plus protein, fat, and fibre
content)<br />
-Beaphar Xtra-Vital Hamster Food (need ingredients plus protein, fibre, and fat
content)<br />
-Beaphar Care+ Dwarf Hamster Food (need ingredients plus protein, fat, and
fibre content)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-8-in-1 Pet Products Premium Hamster/Gerbil Food Wild
Harvest (Full ingredients plus protein, fat and fibre content) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
And so far that's it. If there any you know of that I don't have on either list
please let me know too! I can try checking a couple of them next time I am out
but many of these ones aren't available around here. If anyone can help
even if it's just a picture of the needed information off the bag while you're
out shopping, it would certainly help! I will be sure to give credit to anyone
that helps as well as to those that have already helped. You can e-mail me at
holly.hammie@gmail.com or post it in the comments below.<br />
<br />
I've been looking on various forums, on the company’s websites, on other
websites selling the product with little no luck. Maybe some of you have better
Google skills than me? Or access to the actual food even.<br />
<br />
Anyways any help is appreciated! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-73183518150325541052012-07-01T19:31:00.002-04:002012-07-01T19:31:34.722-04:00Introducing AnnaOn June 24, 2012 I met with a friend, from the forum Hamster Hideout, in order to take in a new hamster. She was apparently found outside along with a Syrian hamster in her cousin's backyard. Her name is Anna and she is very healthy and very sweet too. It's been awhile since I have gotten a new hamster and she is certainly a welcome addition to the family. So without further ado please meet Anna, the blue fawn Russian Campbell dwarf hamster. I believe she is maybe about 6 or 8 weeks old based on her features and size.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rvUdPo1lJCY/T_Ddpe9sRGI/AAAAAAAAAGI/i6sTvO_n_FU/s1600/DSCF6170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rvUdPo1lJCY/T_Ddpe9sRGI/AAAAAAAAAGI/i6sTvO_n_FU/s320/DSCF6170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M7U48Caed7k/T_DdpzJ9ciI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/vAhnfpWW-BM/s1600/DSCF6186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M7U48Caed7k/T_DdpzJ9ciI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/vAhnfpWW-BM/s320/DSCF6186.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zz_Y5rFgXvk/T_DdqTzaBJI/AAAAAAAAAGY/4QxmQLSeUOI/s1600/DSCF6188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zz_Y5rFgXvk/T_DdqTzaBJI/AAAAAAAAAGY/4QxmQLSeUOI/s320/DSCF6188.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
~Holly, Bones and AnnaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-9268193389668156812012-06-15T13:04:00.000-04:002012-06-15T13:04:45.265-04:00Dioxins in Carefresh a Valid Concern?<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
Recently I came across someone talking about Carefresh and similar pulp-based products (Boxo, Clean and Cozy, etc) being dangerous due to high levels of dioxins within the substrate from where they are made. The exact phrase being that Carefresh is "repackaged sludge from the sewer stream of pulp mills". This phrase is inaccurate as this is not quite what wood pulp is. These beddings are made form wood pulp, which is the product of the tree that cannot be used to make paper products. It was often put into landfills and other let to go to waste before. It is not "sludge from the sewer", it is taken before that point is reached. It is also not recycled paper and contains no ink.</div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
The main concern brought up was that during this process dioxins (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dioxins_and_dioxin-like_compounds" target="_blank">Wiki: Dioxins</a>) were put into the wood pulp. Thus our small animals would be exposed to these deadly compounds.</div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
This concern is not a new one it seems, searching for more information many forums came up with similar posts about "sewer sludge" though all from different times, the oldest one I found dating back to 2003. Finally I found a page that was put up by a pine mill company that promoted pine over wood pulp based substrates. (Please see: <a href="http://dashinghamsters.blogspot.ca/search?q=pine" target="_blank">Toxicity of Pine and Cedar Shavings</a>). This page seems to be the source of this rumour. Yet the question still needed to be considered: Are wood-pulp based substrates really safe?</div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
Looking at the Carefresh Website they say that "Carefresh is non-toxic, sanitised and <b>it has been tested for dioxins</b>. As
a result Carefresh is guaranteed to be clean, safe and natural."</div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Humans come in contact with dioxins on a daily basis, mostly through the food that we eat. It is safe to presume that living such a close lifestyle to humans, that domestic animals, such as hamsters, would also be exposed to low levels of dioxins. Dioxin emissions have gone down a lot in more recent years and should continue to do so, meanwhile the long-living dioxins that are here already will eventually reach the end of their lifespan. It would seem that the scare of dioxins in pulp-based substrates is something that was twisted and stretched in order to promote another companies product (i.e. pine shavings). If dioxins levels in these substrates were at a level to cause issues than it would seem imperative, (if not for the animal's sake but for the human's sake), that a company would find a different way to work with this product. Based on all that I have read along with the questionable source of this dioxin-in-Carefresh information that this is not something to worry about. It seems surprising that if dioxins are an issue that it has not been found to cause issues in animals at some point. Carefresh is used in some labs after all, it would make sense that they would want a substrate that would not put their study in jeopardy.</span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-60231219574566706032012-05-29T14:31:00.001-04:002012-05-29T16:10:17.873-04:00Papier Mache Playground Guide<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Inspired by a papier mache sand dune creation I learned about on a gerbil website here: <a href="http://www.egerbil.com/playground.html" target="_blank">Gerbil Playground</a> I took those instructions and made them more pet friendly so that the playground could be used inside of a cage. Small single hide-out dunes will probably fit better into most cage set ups, but they can still be used for out of the cage fun!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF6038.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">An example of a papier mache playground inside of a cage.</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">List of materials:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tape (optional)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Cardboard sheet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Assorted Small cardboard boxes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Assorted Toilet paper tubes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Several Newspapers (be sure ink is soy/vegetable based)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Blank white printing paper (optional)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Paint (optional) (be sure it is nontoxic)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1-2 cups of sand (playground sand, chinchilla sand or calcium carbonate sand)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup of Baking Flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 teaspoon of Salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 cups of water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. The first step is to get a base for you playground. If it is going into a cage than be sure to measure everything out first, or you may end up with a playground that doesn't fit!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5867.jpg" width="400" /> </span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Take your assorted cardboard materials and toilet paper tubes and arrange them on your base. </span></div>
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5868.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Begin to fill in the empty spaces between and around your base structures with newspaper balls and rolls.</span></div>
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5870.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once complete it should begin to take a basic shape. Remember this is meant to be creative so make it as big as you want and use your imagination:</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5872.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span id="goog_1151299822"></span><span id="goog_1151299823"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Cover this with a couple of sheets of newspapers to hold everything in place for when you start the actual papier macheing part. You can tape the pieces down if necessary, I usually removed the tape once I started papier macheing.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5874.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Rip up all of your sheets of newspaper. You can cut them, but ripping them helps them stay down better as the edges are ragged and hold down better.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5877.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Now is time to make the paste. Take the flour and mix it with one cup of the water in a bowl add the salt in now too. The salt will help prevent mold from forming. In a separate sauce pan boil the remaining two cups of water. Once it is boiled add the water to the flour-water mix and stir. Than add all of the mix back into the saucepan and heat on medium high for 1-2 minutes until the paste has thickened. Let it cool before starting as it will be hot. When ready just dip a piece of newspaper into the paste, strain off the excess and begin to paste it onto the playground.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5878.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5883.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. I recommend at least three layers of newspaper. Be sure to let each layer dry before moving on to the next one. The thicker you go the stronger it will be.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5885.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. The last layer (or two) I would use blank printing paper so that the newspaper does not show through afterward.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5888.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9. Now after your last layer is dry you can do something to add a little extra. This is optional, but using nontoxic acrylic paint to add some colour to the piece really does help to make it look better.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5889.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10. Once the paint is dry (or your last layer is dry) take your paste out again and begin to cover your piece with it in an even coat. I use a paintbrush sometimes, but using your hands it a lot quicker.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5893.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">11. Take your piece and put it on top off a plastic bag, because this will get messy. With your piece still wet from that layer of paste you painted on, pour the sand over it. Ensure that the sand is coating everything.</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/DSCF5891.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">12. Let your masterpiece dry and than add it to your hamster's home or put it in their playpen. Either way your hamster will have a blast!</span><br />
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<a href="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam01034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam01034.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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**Caution**</div>
Some people have mentioned that they had mold issues with this, I have yet to have any such issues. Adding salt to the paste mix can help prevent this though.<br />
<br />Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-50665658690294773452012-05-26T18:46:00.003-04:002012-05-29T16:10:39.588-04:00Getting Bit is Part of Owning a Hamster<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In recent discussion on HamsterHideout.com the question was posed whether it was reasonable to assume that getting bit by a hamster was part of what comes with owning a hamster. It was of no surprise that most everyone agreed, myself included, that it is indeed part of what comes with sharing your life with a hamster. Short of leaving a hamster in it's cage 24/7 with no human interaction, you are in the position to be bitten at any time. Any animal with a mouth is capable of biting after all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It certainly ties in with the idea that hamsters bite a lot more than other small animals. In one way I do agree, hamsters do tend to be quick to use their teeth if ill at ease. On the other hand I would say 99% of any and all bites I have received , have been given due to my own error. Whether I did not let a sleeping hamster lie, I surprised them, my hands smelled of food or a cage territorial hamster felt their home to be invaded. I have yet to have a hamster bite for no reason. Even nibbles are given for the reason of exploration and understanding, and they often do not hurt. Especially as hamsters are seen as a child's pet, the notion that they bite often is only encouraged as young children who do not understand how to respect an animal's personal space and are often handle the hamster more roughly than they should be get bitten and a negative reputation is built with blame placed upon the hamster.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Biting before a hamster has been socialized or 'tamed' is to be expected as you must work diligently to earn your hamster's trust so that they understand that you are a friend and not an enemy. A taming guide can be found here: <a href="http://dashinghamsters.blogspot.ca/p/taming.html" target="_blank">Dashing Hamster's Taming Guide</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Learning to read a hamster's body language for signs of distress, can go a long way to avoiding a hamster bite and in doing so you will not cross their threshold for stress, making them feel better about you. Not invading their space if they feel protective over it, food dishes or hoards as well as nests seem to be a sensitive spot for some hamster as an example; washing your hands with non-scented soap to get rid of interesting smells that may be mistaken for actual food or even a threat; letting your presence be known before touching your hamster such as talking to them or rustling some bedding and picking them up from where they can see your hands coming; not waking them and just overall respecting them and their space can definitely reduce the risk for bites. I used to consider hamster bites a regular part of keeping them, but as I have learned to read them better I have gotten bitten less and less over the years. Most importantly do not take the bites personally, your hamster isn't after all so why should you? The meaning behind each bite is situational and dependent upon the hamster, biting does not mean that they "hate" you though. Frequent biting experienced while a hamster is in their home may be linked to cage aggression, which is discussed in depth here: <a href="http://dashinghamsters.blogspot.ca/2011/11/cage-aggression.html" target="_blank">Cage Aggression</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So while biting can be made less likely getting bitten is always a possibility. Whether they<i> will</i> be quick to use their teeth in an attempt to solve their issues or if they will prefer to take things in a more mellow manner will depend upon the individual hamster. They have teeth and therefore they can bite and so it should be assumed that bites can happen, this does not mean that they <i>will</i> happen though. Basically be prepared. Despite it all, the bites are not as frequent as some make it out to be and with some thought into your actions around your hamster there is no reason why you cannot enjoy each other's company.</span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-91476413385389629692012-05-06T16:18:00.001-04:002012-05-07T00:38:26.366-04:00Kaytee Recalls Food Due to Salmonella<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<a href="http://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/vet-breaking-news/2012/04/30/kaytee-recalls-batch-of-mouse-rat-and-hamster-food-due-to-salmonella.aspx#.T6bb7Gn8PYc.blogger">Kaytee Recalls Batch of Mouse, Rat and Hamster Food Due to Salmonella</a></div>
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Heads up everyone, while the food isn't really recommended as it doesn't exactly meet a hamster's needs; I thought it best to share anyways. Kaytee has had to recall some of their foods, including:</div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
The recalled products are 3-pound packages with a “best before” date of 31-Mar-2013 K63 (UPC Code 71859 9994); 5-pound packages with a “best before” date of 03-Apr-2012 K61 (UPC Code 71859-00001); and 25-pound bags with “best before” dates of 31-Mar-20-13 (UPC Code 71859 99995) and, for Petco stores only, 30-Mar-2013 (UPC Code 71859 00000).<br />
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No other products or product lots are involved in the recall and no human or pet illnesses have been reported, according to Kaytee. </blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are using any of their food be sure to check the date and codes, especially if your in the US and got it form PetCo. </span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-59947388534590750302012-04-28T21:21:00.001-04:002012-04-28T21:21:39.045-04:00Rest Peacefully RoryTwo years and three days ago I drove over an hour away to adopt two
lovely roborovski dwarf hamsters from a girl that got surprised with
babies from hamsters that she had received as a present. I remember
being surprised at just how small they really were, never having seen
robos before. It took me almost 10 minutes to get both of them out of
their cage and into the travel cage. They had a long ride to their new
home, but settled in well. Rory was always the braver of the two, even
though she was quite dependent on Bones. She often didn't mind me
handling her for short periods of time and was usually the most
cooperative with photo shoots.<br />Once I found both of them in
"hibernation" due to the lack of heat in my room mid-winter. It was the
longest amount of time I was ever able to hold them as I warmed them in
my hands. Rory came around first, nudging her sister until she woke too.<br />After
having them for about a year I was itching to give these girls a bigger
home. They were upgraded to a Detolf cage (a cage built from a detolf
shelf from ikea). Rory's favourite pastime (when she could reach it),
was hanging upside down from the lid and chewing on the mesh in order to
get my attention. Today I found her dead, buried in their aspen. She
looked quite peaceful.<br /><br />Rory and Bones may as well have been
attached at the hips. No full memory exists of one without the other.
Bones is taking it rather well though. She is eating, drinking and
running around just fine and she looks healthy as can be. We are both
going to miss Rory, but I am glad that she stuck around as long as she
did.<br /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52006-1.jpg" height="400" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52006-1.jpg" width="300" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52017-1.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam52017-1.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam53023.jpg" height="400" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam53023.jpg" width="300" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam71013.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam71013.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam72004.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam72004.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam56003.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam56003.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam74026.jpg" height="400" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam74026.jpg" width="300" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam77014.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam77014.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam77019.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam77019.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam80014.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam80014.jpg" width="400" />/<br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam82017.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam82017.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam201184010.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam201184010.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam01028.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam01028.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollycam0313nov2011036.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollycam0313nov2011036.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam0419dec2011006.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam0419dec2011006.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam0629dec2011039.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/backup2/hollyscam0629dec2011039.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/DSCF5681.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/DSCF5681.jpg" width="400" /><br /><img data-cke-saved-src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/DSCF5687.jpg" height="300" src="http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu285/bobbyothree/DSCF5687.jpg" width="400" /><br /><br />
<div style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Rest In Peace Rory. <br />Adopted April 23, 2010 -- Passed April 28, 2012</span></div>
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</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-43810595193070544802012-04-23T22:40:00.001-04:002012-05-29T16:10:57.742-04:00Update on Star Gazing Treatment<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
I put together an article about 'Star Gazing' in hamsters (found here: <a href="http://dashinghamsters.blogspot.ca/2011/12/star-gazing.html" target="_blank">Star Gazing</a>) back in December 2011 and I wanted to update on a couple of things in regard to it.</div>
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On the forum, 'HamsterHideout' a member under the username of 'Luci' began treatment of her star gazing hamster, Mirabelle, with the drug Trimethoprim Sulfa (mentioned in the original article) and within days reported a noticeable difference in Mirabelle, namely walking normally and capable of better balance. Mirabelle has since passed away, though as far as I know, her death is not believed to be caused from the drug. </div>
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The member, 'missPixy' also mentioned recently that some people have noticed that switching from tap water to bottled water has made a notable difference in the extremity of the symptoms associated with star gazing. I have no evidence to back this up, but it is certainly not something that would be of harm to try.</div>
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On a side note: I hope to become more active now that school is out, I am still working on a nutrition article though it may be awhile. In the meantime any suggestions for any thing that I should cover would not be unwelcome. Happy Hamstering and I hope everyone had a wonderful Hamster Day on April 12!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-82700878564988413432012-02-21T16:51:00.001-05:002012-02-21T16:52:03.350-05:00Don't Forget to Smile<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6TdChvg1rsA/T0QRE6Kly3I/AAAAAAAAAGA/tvqRpj3iLGM/s1600/DSCF5687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6TdChvg1rsA/T0QRE6Kly3I/AAAAAAAAAGA/tvqRpj3iLGM/s320/DSCF5687.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">More Pictures can be found here: <span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.freewebs.com/hamster_wheel/apps/photos/" title="External link">Photo Gallery</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-83840659861453553592012-02-17T22:08:00.006-05:002012-02-19T13:41:57.355-05:00Syrian Hamster Care SheetNote: I hope to include a pdf version of this in the future. Due to technical difficulties it will have to wait until future time.<br />
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<div><b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />
</span></b></div><div><b id="internal-source-marker_0.6582807591184974"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">English Name:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Syrian (Also nicknamed the Teddy Bear, Golden, Black Bear, Common, etc.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Latin Name:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Mesocricetus auratus</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lifespan:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 2-3 years</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Size: </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5-7 inches (13 to 18 cm)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Description:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Syrians are the most common species of hamster kept as pets and were the first hamsters to be domesticated and introduced into the pet market. Today’s domestic syrians are believed to be descended from a mother and her litter that were taken from Aleppo, Syria on April 12, 1930. Syrians are available in many colours, patterns and even some coat mutations such as short haired, long haired and hairless. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Temperament:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Syrians are generally docile and are often recommended for first time owners. Each hamster is different and while one syrian may be bold and friendly another may be shy and easily frightened. Syrians are also loners by nature; they do not live with other hamsters in the wild and only come together to mate and for the female to raise her litter. If kept together Syrians may fight resulting in severe injury or death of one or both hamsters. Living together is also stressful for these hamsters; stress lowers the immune system making them susceptible to illness. At no point should a syrian be housed with another of its species, a different species of hamster or any other small animal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Housing:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Despite their size hamsters need a lot of room. The generally accepted bare minimum now a day is a cage with the floor space of 360 square inches though it is highly recommended that a larger space is given. Many cages actually made for hamsters are far too small for any syrian hamster and often need to be added on to. It is recommended that you look at the following link in regards to </span></b><b id="internal-source-marker_0.6582807591184974"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b id="internal-source-marker_0.6582807591184974"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b id="internal-source-marker_0.6582807591184974"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://hamstergehege.blogspot.com/2010/03/wissenschaftliche-fakten-wie-ein.html">Scientific Facts about Hamster Homes</a></span></b><b id="internal-source-marker_0.6582807591184974"><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">. </span></b></span></b></span></b><br />
<b id="internal-source-marker_0.6582807591184974"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> There are many different types of cages such as aquariums, bin cages, wire cages, and plastic connectible cages. Any of these types can be great for hamsters as long as they are the right size. Which cage you prefer depends entirely on you. A cage set-up consisting of dozens of Habitrail cages and tubes may be fine for one person, but a chore for someone else who may enjoy a bin cage better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Substrate and Bedding:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Substrate is the stuff that you put on the floor of your cage in order to give your hamster something to walk on, burrow in, hide food in and to soak up any urine. There are many different options to choose from, though not all substrates are safe for hamsters. Wood shavings made from softwood trees such as pine, cedar, and spruce (UK pine) contain toxic aromatic oils called phenols that harm a hamster’s respiratory system and may also cause cancer. Softwood shavings can be kiln dried which removes some of the phenols but not all of them, thus not making kiln dried shavings completely safe. Hardwood shavings such as aspen on the other hand do not contain phenols and so are safe to use. Any scented substrates are also dangerous to hamsters, irritating their sensitive respiratory system, even ‘natural’ scents such as rose or mint. Some other safe options besides aspen shavings are paper-based beddings. Some brands to look out for are Care Fresh, Boxo Bedding, Critter Care, and Yesterdays News Cat Litter. Substrate should be several inches deep, six or so inches is ok, though Syrian hamsters really do benefit having more to burrow in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Bedding is what is used in the hamster’s nest. Whatever substrate you are using is fine for bedding but you can also add other materials to make their nest more comfortable. Again not all available bedding is safe. Hamster ‘fluff’ bedding should be avoided, if ingested then it can cause internal blockages and hamsters can get tangled in it causing a limb to lose circulation. Cloth, fleece or other similar materials should also be avoided in case the hamster ingests them unless you are certain that your hamster will not chew any of this. Toilet paper or kleenex makes a great choice for bedding as it’s cheap, comfortable, safe and easy to get. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Supplies:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Hamsters need some basic supplies for their home too:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Wheels</span>--</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Hamsters need wheels to be able to burn off excess energy. Syrian hamsters can run up to eight or so miles a night as they forage for food in the wild. It is important that the wheel has a solid surface so that the hamster cannot harm it’s feet. A wheel with runged bars can allow great harm to a hamster if they get their foot caught in between the rungs. The wheel should also be at least 8” in diameter so that the hamster has plenty of room to run. Some hamsters may even require a larger size. If their back is arched at all while they are running or they have to hold their head up higher then usual, then the wheel is too small. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Chew Toys</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Hamsters, as rodents have constantly growing incisor teeth. Hamsters trim them by chewing on things. While pet stores do sell wood chews and similar products many do go ignored, often milk bones (intended for dogs) or raw pasta are well received and work well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Beds</span>--</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Hamsters prefer a shelter of some kind to be able to build their nest in. It helps them to feel secure and to reinforce their nest. You can make these at home or buy some from the pet store, the possibilities are endless when it comes to this. Just ensure that it’s big enough for your hamster.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Water Bottles</span>--</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Water bottles are made especially to hold water for hamsters. They keep the water clean and contained. A good brand to watch out for is Oasis as they are durable and rarely leak. Be sure to clean out the bottle daily to prevent bacteria from growing, the spout can be cleaned with an (unused) smoke pipe brush. Water bowls can be used instead, but they are not usually recommended as they get dirty easily and if a hamster gets wet from it then they can catch a chill. If they must be used then a small dish such as a tea light holder can be used so that hamsters cannot get soaked by it. Just be sure to clean it daily or twice a day if possible and to keep it elevated so that substrate cannot get into it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Food dishes</span>--</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Food dishes are as simple as a small dish used to hold food. You don’t need one for the staple food if you would rather free feed (sprinkling the food around the cage) however it is easier to monitor if the hamster is still taking its food if you use a dish. There should be a dish used for fresh foods though.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Toys</span>-- </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toys are important in a hamsters home as they provide great physical and mental exercise. From tubes, to see-saws, to digging pits, to wherever your imagination can take you. Hamsters are inquisitive creatures and will enjoy exploring all sorts of things. You can make the toys yourself or go check a pet store to see what they have.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Toilets</span>-- </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toilets aren’t necessary as part of a hamsters cage but they can help keep things a little cleaner. Syrians will often pick a corner to urinate in, some will also use this corner for feces as well. By putting a toilet in you can encourage your hamster to go in one spot which can then be cleaned out daily. You don’t need a toilet, most hamsters will pick a spot on their own as they get a little older.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Sand Baths</span>-- </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sand baths aren’t necessary for syrian hamsters but many Syrian hamsters enjoy being able to dig in the sand. Some may come to use it as a toilet though. Good sand to use includes Chinchilla sand (not dust) though is argued to be dangerous due to the silica content. Those that don’t use Chinchilla sand for this reason will often used Aragonite sand (Calcium carbonate), which is argued by others to be dangerous due to the calcium content in it. Which you use is up to you, further reading should be done so that you have thorough understanding of both sides can make an educated decision. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cleaning Maintenance:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> When it comes to hamsters cleaning is not a big chore so long as you keep on top of it. Daily cleaning would include the removal of any left over fresh foods from the previous day, cleaning out of the ‘toilet’ corner and washing of the water bottle or bowl.<br class="kix-line-break" />How often the cage is cleaned will depend upon the hamster, the substrate and the cage size. An exceptionally large cage will not need to be fully cleaned out as often as a smaller cage for example. Generally a full cage clean out should be done weekly or every other week. The substrate should be dumped out, except for a handful or two; the cage wiped down, the supplies washed and the nesting area cleaned out as well. Once everything is clean and the cage out back together, sprinkle the substrate that was saved prior to cleaning, all around the cage. This will reduce any stress felt by the cleaning of the cage by allowing the scent to remain within the cage, minus the mess. This will also reduce the need felt by the hamster to go over board in marking his home after a cage clean.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Food:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The syrian hamster’s diet really isn’t too complicated. Syrian hamsters are mainly grainivorous in the wild though they will also eat greens and insects making them omnivores. Hamsters need a staple diet of either a seed mix or a lab block. Lab blocks are compressed pellets, while seed mixes are made up of various seeds, grains and nuts. Either is fine to use, it depends on your own preference and likely the preference of the individual hamster. In either type of food you are looking for a food with protein of about 17-21% and a fat content of 4-6%. </span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Lab blocks are good to use because hamsters are unable to pick through it and eat only their favourite foods, thus they get the complete nutrition provided by the lab block. Not all brands of lab blocks are made equally though, some good brands to look out for include Mazuri and Oxbow. However lab blocks are boring, especially for an animal that is a forager in nature. Seed mixes provide much more variety for a hamster. With seed mixes you need to watch out for mixes that contain to many ‘treats’. Mixes that are overloaded with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts and other sweet or fattening food should be avoided. You want a mix that has a good balance of foods. Some good brands are Supreme Pet Foods Hazel Hamsters (called Harry Hamster in some countries) and Carefresh Complete Food for Gerbils & Hamsters (if this brand is used, organic sunflower seeds must be added to the mix; 3-4 daily is a good amount). In order to avoid a hamster from picking out certain foods I would recommend feeding only enough that they can eat in a day or feeding them every other day. They hoard their food so it is very unlikely that they will go hungry. About a tablespoon of food should be enough per day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Besides a staple food hamsters will also enjoy many other kinds of foods. Foods such as vegetables fruits, chicken, egg, tofu, etc. are all foods that are enjoyed by hamsters. A complete list can be found on the last page [below]. I would recommend that you try and feed something every day or every other day or so. You shouldn’t just start feeding these foods right away, they should be introduced slowly by starting with some foods a couple times a week and then upping the amounts as you go. Too many fresh foods can upset the stomach, especially if they aren’t used to it so be sure to take things slowly. Also be sure to take out any excess fresh foods after 24 hours so that they don’t rot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Pet store bought treats are often quite sweet so they should be kept to a minimum. I wouldn’t feed more than one store bought treat a week, no matter how much your hamster seems to enjoy them or if the package claims that 2-3 a day is just fine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Obtaining Your Hamster:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> There are various places from which a hamster can be obtained, they include:</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Adoption</span>:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Adopting a hamster from a shelter or a rescue has to be the best way of obtaining a hamster and is a worthwhile experience. You never know what poor hamster many need a loving forever home. Most hamsters are given up when children become bored with them or when a hamster is accidentally bought from a pet store, pregnant. They are not there through any fault of their own and deserve a second chance at a forever home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Quality Breeders and Back Yard Breeders</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: This is a good choice to get a young and healthy hamster. You may even get a nice choice of colours and the hamster should be well tamed too. Be sure to do your research about the breeder of your choice and to ask lots of questions. Most breeders are not breeding for the betterment of the species but to earn some money or for various other reasons. These breeders are often called ‘back yard breeders’. If the breeder does not seem knowledgeable then it is best to move on and not support their bad practices.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Classifieds</span>: </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking in the classified section of your local newspaper or on online ad websites are a good way to find hamsters in need of homes. Many people attempt t rehome unwanted hamsters themselves rather then bringing their hamster to a shelter, these hamsters need homes too. Keep in mind that some are simply breeders that are advertising. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Other</span>:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Getting a hamster from a friend, neighbour or family member that no longer wants their hamster is another option, though tends to be more an opportunity rather than a choice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Pet Stores</span>:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Not all pet stores are bad, though you will never really know what you are getting. Most pet store hamsters have poor genetics due to over breeding, inbreeding and from suppliers not paying attention to genetics. If you can find a store with good conditions then it could be all right. Pet stores should be a last resort. Purchasing from pet stores often support pet mills or back yard breeders.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What to Look For:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When selecting your hamster there are a few things to look for to ensure that you're getting a healthy one. A healthy hamster:</span></b><br />
<ul><li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">is inquisitive and alert</span></b></li>
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<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">has bright clear eyes</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">the nose should have no discharge</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">the fur is full and well groomed</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">the limbs aren’t swollen nor is the hamster limping</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">there are no lumps, scabs or red and irritated skin.</span><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></li>
</b></ul><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you decide upon an unhealthy looking Syrian hamster, keep in mind that you may have to visit the vet soon after acquiring your hamster. Before selecting your hamster be sure to watch for a bit to be sure that your soon-to-be hamster seems healthy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bringing Your Hamster Home: </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wherever you are getting your hamster, you are likely going to need to travel to get them. Make sure that you have some sort of travel cage for the way home, holding them in your hands is not a good idea. They will be frightened and they may not trust humans, it's just not a good idea in a vehicle. A cardboard box will work for short trips but anything over 30 minutes and you should bring something that the hamster isn't going to chew through. Most pet stores have a carrying box and some breeders will too, just be sure to find out prior to getting your hamster. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Once you have picked out your hamster, ask whoever is helping you to also put in a handful of the substrate and some of the seed mix/lab blocks in the box or cage with your hamster to keep them comfortable and in familiar surroundings. When you get into the car don't talk too loudly, no arguing or loud music. This will only frighten your hamster. If it is a short trip home then don't worry about providing water to your hamster unless it is very hot out, in this case just give them some food high in water content such as cucumber. If possible turn on the A/C if it is hot out or the heat if it is cold. Also if it is hot out, keep the cage out of direct sunlight. If you have a longer trip then be sure to provide some sort of water source such as cucumber. Drive safely but don't dawdle or make any more stops, be sure that picking up the hamster is the last thing you need to do on your excursion. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> When you get your hamster home, the cage should already be set up. Put your hamster in it’s cage right away. Also put in the food and substrate from the travel cage/box into the hamsters new home so that it smells familiar. If the substrate is pine or cedar, don't worry a little bit longer on it to lower stress won't hurt. Now you can enjoy watching your hamster explore it's new home for a few days until socializing begins.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taming and Socialisation:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Hamsters were tamed and domesticated years ago, however they do keep some of their wild instinct and fear of humans. Socializing is about creating a bond of trust between you and your hamster. The key to success is patience. Be sure to wash your hands prior to any handling with non-scented soap so that your hands do not smell like a tasty treat. While some hamsters will warm up quickly, others need some time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step 1:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> When you first get your hamster home, he will be very scared. Do not try to handle your Syrian for 3-4 days. During these few days you can talk to your hamster gently and enjoy watching your hamster play and explore.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step 2</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: On the second or third day introduce "scented" tissue. This is toilet paper or kleenex that had your scent on it. Keeping it in your sock, up your sleeve or wherever for a few hours will give the tissue your scent. The hamster will then use it is a nesting material and it will allow your hamster to get used to your scent. Continue with the tissue throughout the taming process, giving some each day</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step 3</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: After a couple of days of the tissue start trying to hand your hamster some treats. The easiest way to your Syrian’s trust is through their stomach. Your hamster may be scared to have your hand so close, but eventually he or she should be brave or curious enough to take the treat from your fingers. After a couple of days and once he or she is comfortable with this, it's time to move on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step 4</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Once your hamster is comfortable taking treats from your fingers, then try laying your hand flat on the cage floor with a treat on your hand. Your hamster will eventually get curious and want to check out your hand, though this can take awhile. Your hamster may nibble but this is just them checking you out to see what you are. If your hamster does bite then slowly retreat, tend to the bite and then get right back in there. Your hamster is scared and if you let it know that biting will get rid of you then they will continue to do so. This time try distracting your Syrian by rustling some bedding, making a slight noise or gently blowing in the hams direction if he or she goes to bite again. Continue each day with this step until your Syrian feels more comfortable with it, once your hamster is then move onto the next step.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step 5:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Start with laying your hand on the floor of the cage again and this time try petting your hamster’s back. If he is too uncomfortable with this then try petting them while handing your Syrian a treat. The treat will tempt the hamster to stay while you pet the hamster. Once your hamster is comfortable with this light touch then it is time to continue onto the next step.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step 6:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Lay your hand on the cage floor again and this time when he climbs on, lift your hand a little way off the floor. Continue doing this until you can get your other hand in there and allow him to walk from hand to hand. From this point on you can start to move on to more handling while you continue to slowly build that bond of trust.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Keep in mind that not all hamsters like to sit in your hands or cuddle. Most of them enjoy being on the go and some will never be happy to play in your hands. Most do enjoy their owners eventually though. It's important to at least get them used to humans in case they require a vet. If they are not used to humans then the vet will have a difficult time checking out the hamster, treatment will be difficult and the whole time the hamster will be stressed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grooming:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Hamsters are naturally clean animals and will groom themselves much like cats. They do not require bathing, which is actually dangerous and stressful. Their nails may need trimming from time to time however. Besides that long haired Syrian hamsters may need assistance in keeping their long fur ‘tame’. A soft bristled tooth brush to take out any stuck in substrate or to remove any tangles usually works best.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Illness:</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> When hamsters become ill they can go downhill quickly. Throughout your hamster's life you may have to go to a vet so it is best to locate a rodent-experienced vet before you actually need one. Talk to the vet and ask some basic questions in order to gauge their hamster knowledge and ask how much experience they have with hamsters. Not all vets are equal and many don't have a clue about hamsters and only know outdated facts. You may not be able to find a a rodent-experienced vet so you need to find one that is willing to learn how to treat rodents. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is also best that you start putting money aside right from the start so that if you need a vet later on, you will have to money to give your hamster the care that it deserves. As long as they are kept in a clean cage and are cared for properly they should live in good health. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Here is a list of symptoms that may indicate that your hamster is ill:</span><br />
<ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sleeps more than usual</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Loss of appetite </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No longer grooming him/herself </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having difficulty moving around </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Loss of fur - Runny nose </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teary eyes </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wet bottom </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hamster droppings should be rod-shaped. (Watery droppings indicate too much fresh foods and dry droppings indicate not enough)</span></li>
</ul><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> If your hamster is ill a vet must be sought immediately. In order to help keep your hamster calm if you believe they are ill or hurt be sure to keep their body temperature isn't too cool or too hot. Keep the room as dark as possible to reduce stress, don't keep it pitch black when you need to see what you're doing though. Some people also suggest putting a bit of lavender in the cage as the smell can help sooth their nerves and reduce stress.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> If your hamster is put on antibiotics by your veterinarian be sure to give your hamster about a quarter teaspoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt as it contains beneficial bacteria that helps keep their digestive system balanced, as the antibiotics kill the flora in the hamsters gut as a side effect.</span><br />
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<div><table style="border-bottom-style: none; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-image: initial; border-left-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-left-style: dotted; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; padding-bottom: 7px; padding-left: 7px; padding-right: 7px; padding-top: 7px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Safe Food List</span></td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-image: initial; border-left-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-left-style: dotted; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; padding-bottom: 7px; padding-left: 7px; padding-right: 7px; padding-top: 7px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Safe Food List Continued</span></td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-image: initial; border-left-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-left-style: dotted; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; padding-bottom: 7px; padding-left: 7px; padding-right: 7px; padding-top: 7px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unsafe</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Food List</span></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-image: initial; border-left-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-left-style: dotted; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; padding-bottom: 7px; padding-left: 7px; padding-right: 7px; padding-top: 7px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Apple (seedless)</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acorns</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alfalfa</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Asparagus</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Baked/Steamed, unseasoned Turkey/Chicken</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Basil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bean Sprouts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bok Choy</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Banana</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blackberries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blueberries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Broccoli</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Brussel Sprouts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Baby Food (no onion, garlic, or preservatives)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Buckwheat</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bran or Wheat Germ</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Brown rice (cooked, plain)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cabbage (in small amounts)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cauliflower</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Celery</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chard</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chestnuts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chickweed</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Carrots</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Corn</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chicory</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Clover</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cooked, unseasoned ground beef (lean)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cottage Cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cucumbers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crickets (from pet store only)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cereals (low sugar)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cantaloupe</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cherry</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dandelion flowers and leaves</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dog Biscuits (with no onion/garlic ingredients)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Endive</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eggs (boiled, scrambled, plain)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Flax seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grasshoppers (from pet store only)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Green Beans</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-image: initial; border-left-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-left-style: dotted; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; padding-bottom: 7px; padding-left: 7px; padding-right: 7px; padding-top: 7px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Green Pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Honey Dew Melon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kale</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lentils</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lychee</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mango</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mealworms (from pet store only)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nuts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Orange Pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oatmeal (cooked or dry; in soy milk or water; not instant)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Parsnips</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Potatoes (cooked)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pasta (cooked, plain)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Papaya</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peaches (no pit)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pear</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Plums (no pit)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peanuts (plain)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Popcorn (plain)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pumpkin seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Radicchio</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Red Pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Romaine Lettuce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raspberries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sesame seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Soybeans (roasted, salt-free)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Squash Seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sunflower Seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spinach</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Squash</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sweet Potatoes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Swiss chard</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sweet Almonds (not bitter)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Star Fruit</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Strawberries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tofu (plain)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toast (whole wheat)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Turnip</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Water Chestnuts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Water Cress</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yellow Pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yogurt (plain)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Zucchini</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-image: initial; border-left-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-left-style: dotted; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; padding-bottom: 7px; padding-left: 7px; padding-right: 7px; padding-top: 7px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Buttercups (flower)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chocolate (toxic)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Onion (possibly toxic in some animals)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Garlic (possibly toxic in some animals)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peanut Butter (can get stuck in pouches)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sandwich meats (contain too much salt, high nitrates)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Apple Seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Canned /Processed foods</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Candy/ Junk Foods</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pork</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Potatoes (raw)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kidney Beans</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eggplant</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fool’s Parsley</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grape Seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Avocado</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raw Rhubarb</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tomato leaves</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Citrus fruits (including orange, tangerine, lemon, lime, grapefruit, etc)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Watermelon (high in water content, not dangerous technically)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Fruit pits/ most fruit seeds</span></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Iceberg Lettuce</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jams/jellies</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spices/Seasonings</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leeks</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scallions</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chives</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pickles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bitter Almonds (contain cyanide in the peel)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Campbell Early grapes & Kyoho grapes (due to high concentration of acidity)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Greens from a mustard plant</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mustard seeds</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div></div></div></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-17429826263470349322012-02-09T11:45:00.000-05:002012-02-09T11:45:00.970-05:00Update on the Campaign for an 8.5" Silent Spinner<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is in reference to this post: <a class="bbc_url" href="http://dashinghamsters.blogspot.com/2012/01/campaign-for-85-silent-spinner.html" rel="external nofollow " title="External link">Campaign for the 8.5" Silent Spinner</a></span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most people that have e-mailed them have not received any reply, not even a confirmation that the e-mail was received. However on Super Pet USA's Facebook page we have gotten a reply of sorts:</span><br />
<h5><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><i>"Thanks for the input! We love hearing from you and appreciate any and all feedback on our products. This is helpful! We value your feedback and will definitely take a look at this."</i></span></h5><div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is nothing solid, however it is something. If any of you have a Facebook account then a comment could be posted on the page, they seem to monitor this page more closely than their e-mail system. The link to their page is here: <a class="bbc_url" href="http://www.facebook.com/SuperPetUSA" rel="external nofollow " title="External link">Super Pets USA Facebook Page</a>. It all helps, thank you everyone!</span></div><h5><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;"> ~Holly, Rory and Bones</span></h5>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-65305911854697209012012-01-26T11:21:00.002-05:002014-01-02T13:36:07.394-05:00Ignorance is Bliss<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Animal cruelty is a sad part of reality, something quite separate from the chilling ruthlessness that nature can sometimes be. Putting a stop to animal cruelty is important, but in order to do that it must be understood. Animal cruelty is the abuse, exploitation or neglect of animals by humans and can be divided into different categories. Generally accepted is that there are three types of animal cruelty. None are worse than the others for in the end it is still an animal suffering at the hand of a human. The <b>first</b> is exploitation in which animals are taken advantage of in order for human entertainment or benefit. Under this category falls animal testing, the use of animals in circuses, the use of animals in war and also animal fighting. The <b>second</b> is the act of intentionally setting out to harm an animal often for personal pleasure, such acts that fall under this include beating, burning, or otherwise physically harming an animal, animal fighting can also fall under this category. The <b>third</b> is neglect; that is the failure to provide proper care for an animal is often best represented in the extreme cases such as leaving a dog chained up in the backyard with no food or water.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I would like to draw your attention to the third category I mentioned: neglect. Most often when neglect is thought of, it is thought of as an intentional act, one that is acknowledged. And yet I have personally witnessed neglect of animals and for the most part it is not intentional; and the person involved is ignorant to the neglect that they are doling out to the animal in their care. It is such that I propose that there are actually two different kinds of neglect. The <b>first</b> sub-category of neglect is ‘Intentional Neglect’, which can include the dog chained up in the backyard as mentioned as an example above, or all the way to the goldfish that has been left to die because the owner has become bored of it. The <b>second</b> sub-category of neglect I call ‘Ignorance fuelled Neglect’ as it is driven by ignorance of the required care for that animal resulting in neglect. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I have no actual statistics, however based upon my own experience with animals and with people with pets, I think it is safe to say that ignorance fuelled neglect is the most common form of animal cruelty. Why though? Because they don’t even know that they are doing it. One may also wonder if it can be considered animal cruelty if it’s cause is rooted in ignorance, in simply not knowing better. This is a difficult area to move around in, and yet as animal lovers’ intent on improving the welfare of animals, it is a category of animal cruelty that cannot go on being ignored. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>The examples of this sub-category of neglect are endless :</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Betta fish (Siamese fighting fish, the fish often kept in separate cups at the pet store) are often explained to require dirty water and small spaces because they live in muddy puddles in the wild. Numerous tiny bowls and containers are sold for them to live in and being a hardy fish they do often <i>survive</i>, but they do not thrive. In the wild they live in vast rice paddies, the water is murky but not dirty, they are insectivores and live in a tropical climate. In captivity they require clean water that is free from ammonia, they need live or frozen foods alongside their staple diet, they need enough space to swim around and stretch their fins, they need their water heated, etc. Their care is complex in comparison to how their care is often explained by the average pet store employee. So they suffer in small, ammonia-ridden, cold tanks on less than adequate food and their owner thinks they’re doing everything right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Hamsters are depicted to be able to live in small and colourful plastic cages on cedar shavings, with no wheel, a basic seed mix, etc. Yet research has shown that hamsters may need a minimum of a square metre of floor space, that cedar shavings cause respiratory issues and that their diet is more complex than once realized. So while they <i>survive,</i> they do not thrive and the owner thinks all is well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Dogs need exercise every day, Cesar Millan’s training methods are out-dated (and oh so much worse than I have room to explain), dogs are not omnivores, and Science Diet is not an optimal food for dogs. And yet those that blindly believe these things have no idea that their dog is not thriving. The examples could go on and on.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>What Can Be Done?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">>>>Start with yourself! Do research about all of the pets you have or want to have in your life! Even the ones commonly not seen to require extra effort such as fish or small animals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">>>>Talk with pet owners in your life, many of them do not put the proper research into the pets that they do have or want to have in their life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">>>>Seek out sources of up-to-date and correct information and promote it! Many books are outdated and the new ones seem to base their information on older books; many pet store employees are sadly not educated in the ‘products’ they are selling or are misinformed with outdated information and the only way to figure out if an employee actually knows what they are talking about is for you yourself to know what you’re talking about; not every website is up-to-date either. So be careful, but when you do find a good website, books, or other resource of good information then pass it on!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
>>>Actively seek ways to promote education. Talk to local animal shelters, local pet stores, local clubs or if all else fails hit the web! Reaching out to help promote education or to help others learn is a great step toward putting this behind us.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Conclusion</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> In order to fight this form of animal cruelty, we must push for the education of pet owners so that they may realize that time must be taken to learn about their chosen pet. How can this be done?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Education of pet care seems to be a more popular concept than it ever used to be, likely thanks to the internet for the easy access to information and for the easy access to animal lovers all over the world so that information and experience can be shared. Do your part to end this animal cruelty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Let us tear down the flag of ignorance, and burn it with the flames of education. In its stead let us raise the flag of knowledge.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ignorance may be described as bliss, but in this case it is only bliss for the human.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-48302794559819566782012-01-25T16:00:00.002-05:002012-01-25T16:06:52.812-05:00A Closer Look at Breeding<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are considering breeding your hamsters, then read on.</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just Hamsters</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Breeding hamsters, or any animal for that matter, is not a decision that should be taken lightly and without serious consideration and research before making any decisions. By breeding animals you become solely responsible for their very life, this is no minor responsibility. For those thinking “it’s just a hamster”, please take a second to look at your own opinion. Why would you even consider breeding hamsters if they are “just hamsters”, breeding is hard work, it is time consuming, can be emotionally draining and also quite costly. If you don’t truly have a passion to work with hamsters and consider them “just hamsters” than you might want to put this idea out of your head for the time being.</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Reasons for Wanting to Breeding</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you truly want to breed then consider the reasons why you want to breed. There may be multiple reasons, but it is certainly worthwhile to take the time to consider your reasons and then write them down. If your reason(s) are along these following lines:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o I want to get the experience of breeding hamsters.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o I want to see cute babies</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o I want to see the miracle of life </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o My friends/family want hamsters or I want more hamsters</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o I want to make money</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o I want my hamsters to live on in their children</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o I read that hamsters should breed at least once in their life</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o My hamsters are in love, it would be cruel to not let them breed</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o I want more hamsters of the same colour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then there might be some issues. Some of these reasons aren’t absolutely negative, however the bottom six points are not good reasons at all, but if any of these points are the driving force for you wanting to breed then I highly recommend that you step back in reconsider breeding. Wanting to experience breeding hamsters, seeing babies, experiencing the miracle of life, etc. are not good enough reasons to want to breed. There are too many hamsters that need homes in the world for such reasons to be valid. While some of these reasons may be reasons to want to breed the ultimate reason for wanting to breed should be something along of the lines of this:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">o To better the species as a whole.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This implies that are goals are to breed quality animals with the intention of improving health, temperament and overall improving the species. Many breeders breed for the wrong reasons and it shows in their knowledge of hamsters and in the quality of their animals. Breeders that breed for the wrong reasons are often referred to as ‘Back Yard Breeders’, they are sadly a common phenomenon throughout the world.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Closer Look at Invalid Reasons for Wanting to Breed</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>1. I want to get the experience of breeding hamsters:</b> This isn’t exactly a poor reason to want to breed, however it should not be your ultimate reason to want to breed. Adopting hamsters is quite the worthwhile experience, and at the same time you give hamster’s a second chance at a forever home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>2. I want to see cute babies:</b> That’s nice; I would like to introduce you to Google. On Google you can search up all sorts of things, including videos and images of baby hamsters. This is just not a good reason to want to breed, sure they are cute, but breeding is serious.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>3. I want to see the miracle of life:</b> there are many videos and books on this subject, why not take the easy route and go for one of those options, they are much less work, money, time and effort. And in the end the message is the same.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>4. My friends/family want hamsters or I want more hamsters:</b> This is wonderful, truly it is. If you have people interested in hamsters or you yourself want more hamsters, than help your friends look for hamsters to adopt, or if it’s you than look for hamsters to adopt yourself. Why bring more hamsters into this world when there are so many that need homes already?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>5. I want to make money:</b> If this is your reason to breed than you need to look outside of breeding animals. Being a quality breeder means that it’s probably going to cost more than you will make.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>6. I want my hamsters to live on in their children:</b> This is a nice thought, but it isn’t a good reason to breed. You could end up with hamsters that end up with genetic issues or other problems if you don’t know their genetic history. Instead taking pictures, spending time with them and enjoying their time with you is the best way to help them live on after death, because then they live on in your memories. Instead of breeding, adopting another hamster in memory of your past hamster is a good way to honour their life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>7. I read that hamsters should breed at least once in their life: </b>This too is not a valid reason to breed for it is simply not true. Hamsters do not need to breed in order to live a healthy and fulfilling life. Not to mention, some people have found that breeding can shorten the life of a hamster (females in particular).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>8. My hamsters are in love, it would be cruel to not let them breed:</b> hamsters do not mate for life the way that humans and some other animals do. They will not feel love the same way we do for a mate, in the wild there is a chance that they might never even see each other again. If you do have a male and a female living together then I highly recommend that they are separated for their well-being.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>9. I want more hamsters of the same colour:</b> This too is not a valid reason to breed. Genetics are not simple and they do not always work the way one might expect, you could get a whole litter with pups that don’t have the same colour as their parents. Besides colour doesn’t matter to hamsters and it shouldn’t matter to you. Fur colour doesn’t make the hamsters, it’s what’s underneath the fur that counts.</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Time</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Breeding hamsters is time consuming, it will eat up much of your free time and may impose on other aspects of your life. Consider the following in regard to time:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>1. Breeders need to do research beforehand and throughout their venture in breeding.</b> Many breeders spend years researching: how to properly breed hamsters, how to pick quality animals, genetics of hamsters, etc. They must also spend time researching and understanding general hamster care and ailments as they gain experience as a normal hamster owner. Not days of research, not months of research, but years. Not only must the research and learn before breeding, but they must also continue to keep up with new information even while breeding hamsters. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>2. Breeders must also put a lot of time into a breeding plan.</b> This plan helps to keep the genetic history of every hamster organized, to keep records in order, to help plan out what a breeder’s goals are, etc. An important factor to consider, and one that might take more than a few minutes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>3. Breeders need to look for homes for their litters.</b> This isn’t as easy as posting an ad and selling them to the first person to respond. Breeders often make up contracts to ensure that their animals will go to a good home, will be returned to them if the owner can no longer keep them, to ensure that the owner will stay in contact and in some cases to ensure that the owner does not breed the hamster. When looking for potential owners, the breeder must look for quality homes with owners that have and will continue to research and understand proper and up to date hamster care, will stay in contact with the breeder, will take the hamster to the vet if required and will over all be a good owner. This is no easy task, good owners are not always available and quality owners in a breeder’s area may disappear with each litter, which is why lining up homes prior to breeding is important. Selling hamsters to a pet store is not a viable option either. A good breeder must be aware of their lines so that they know if genetic issues pop up down the road, selling them to a pet store cuts off contact with owners. Not to mention the breeder then has no control over who purchases their hamsters.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>4. If homes cannot be found for the litter than it is up to the breeder to keep and care for all of the hamsters.</b> Hamsters can have large litters, some even being upward of 20 pups, though the average is closer to 10-12 pups. Depending on the species they may need to live separately, dwarf hamsters can live in same-sex groups but the chances for fights breaking out are always possible. That could mean a cage (recommended bare minimum is 360 square inches of floor space) for every single hamster from the litter, including the parents on top of any other hamsters the breeder has. That is time required for cleaning the cages, for feeding the hamsters, performing health checks, administering medication for any ill hamsters and for spending individual time with each hamster. This is time consuming.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>5. Breeders must take responsibility for the litter if the mother dies or rejects the pups.</b> This means spending over two weeks constantly feeding and caring for helpless pups. They must be fed every hour and care must be taken to ensure that they are never too cold and that they defecate properly. This can mean missing school, work or other obligations that the breeder may have.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>6. The breeder must make time to care for ill hamsters.</b> Caring for a sick hamster can take up quite a bit of a breeder’s time, even if the time spent worrying about the hamster(s) is subtracted from the equation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>7. Breeders must take time to stay in contact with owners that have adopted from them.</b> Breeders need to keep in contact with people that have adopted from them in order to keep tabs on their lines. If health issues pop up that could be caused from genetic issues than the breeder must be aware of this so that effort can be put into putting a stop to that line to prevent further ill hamsters.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>8. Breeders need to keep up with general care of their hamsters.</b> Breeders cannot forget that time must be put aside to clean cages, feed the hamsters, care for them and spend time with them individually. They will also need to put aside time to spend time with litters that are old enough to be handled in order to ensure that the hamsters are sociable.</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Space</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Even consideration about space in your home for all of these hamsters must be thought of.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>1. Breeders need plenty of room for their hamsters.</b> They need room for the various supplies required for hamsters, they need room for adequately sized cages (recommended bare minimum is 360 square inches of floor space) and room to move around in general. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>2. Breeders must consider the optimal place for where to ‘set up shop’.</b> The room must be quiet, free from disturbances, temperature controlled and large enough to provide enough room for everything.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>3. If homes cannot be found for the litter than it is up to the breeder to keep and care for all of the hamsters.</b> This means the breeder needs cages for every single hamster. Considering the average litter is about 10-12 pups that is 10-12 cages that a breeder must provide space for on top of all the room needed for other hamsters and their supplies.</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cost</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Breeding hamsters is not cheap, nor will it be a thriving business. Breeders must expect this hobby to cost them money, rather than make them money. That means that the reason to breed to make money is not only a poor reason to breed, but one laden in false hope.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>1. Breeders must purchase quality breeding stock.</b> Most hamsters are not up to standard to be a quality animal to be bred. This does not make them any less valuable than a well-bred hamster, but these are not the hamsters that a breeder should be breeding. A breeder cannot simply go to a pet store for breeding stock nor should they purchase from the nearest breeder without putting much research into that breeder’s program. In order to find quality stock a breeder may need to travel a great distance to find a quality breeder from which to get their breeding hamsters from. This can be costly not only for the hamsters themselves but for the travel required to actually obtain the hamsters. Breeding poorly-bred hamsters is not an option for a good breeder.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>2. Breeders need to purchase food, substrate and nesting materials.</b> Breeders have many hamsters to care for and so things such as food, substrate and nesting materials do not last as long as they do when caring for one or two hamsters. This alone is a costly part of breeding and quality of the products cannot be substituted for a cheaper price,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>3. Breeders must purchase cages, wheels, toys and other cage accessories.</b> With many hamsters comes a need for many cages and supplies for the cages. Some breeders even have cages set up for pregnant/nursing mother hamsters, special cages where mating will take place, etc. Supplies for hamsters are not always cheap and yet a breeder still needs to consider the cost.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>4. If homes cannot be found for the litter than it is up to the breeder to keep and care for all of the hamsters.</b> This means that all of the associated cost of keeping all of these hamsters fall upon the breeder, along with the cost to care for any other hamsters. Including possible vet bills that could crop up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>5. Breeders must have money out aside when a vet is required.</b> With so many hamsters it should not be a surprise that a vet will likely be required at least once each year, especially as hamsters grow older or if the entire hamstery falls ill for whatever reason. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>6. If a breeder wishes to show their hamsters than they will likely be required to pay a club membership.</b> Most hamster clubs, if not all require a membership fee in order to help pay for the costs associated with keeping a club going. Many quality breeders are encouraged to join, yet it is another cost to be considered.</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Emotion</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Breeding can take a large toll on a breeder’s emotions, often it is explained as an emotional roller-coaster. The happiness found at seeing young hamsters nursing form their mother can be quickly crushed when disaster strikes. While this does not mean that the breeder be cold-hearted or emotionless, this does require the breeder to not let their emotions hinder their responsibility.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>1. Breeders must be able to deal with the death of a mother hamster emotionally.</b> It is going to hurt, but not everyone is able to emotionally handle the death of the mother-hamster from delivery or birth complications when had the breeding not been done, she would still be healthy and alive. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>2. If the mother dies or rejects her litter, the breeder must be strong enough to take on the care of the pups.</b> Loss of sleep for the next two and half weeks can also cause emotions to run higher, and yet the breeder must be capable of enduring it for the sake of the pups, even if often times the pups do not survive, which again can be emotionally gruelling. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>3. The breeder must be able to handle the emotional strain of the mother culling pups.</b> Sometimes when pups are born with birth defects or if the litter is too large or if the whole situation is too stressful, than the mother will cull (kill) some or all of her pups and will also likely consume them, as in the wild dead animals attract predators.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>4. The breeder must be able to accept that there may be genetic issues with their lines.</b> Hiding the fact that there are genetic issues with a breeder’s line, even if it seems embarrassing or if it upsets them, is not an option. Honesty is the best policy, even if it is difficult for the breeder to realize that they have brought lives into the world that may be suffering from genetics issues.</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Conclusion</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Breeding hamsters is no small thing; it is time consuming, expensive, emotionally draining and all around not an easy task. Breeding hamsters should not be taken lightly, it is a serious thing to consider and only if you are prepared to take on full responsibility and do the required research in order to become a quality breeder intent on bettering the species should one attempt to breed hamsters.</span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-74601735525484409452012-01-20T18:00:00.000-05:002012-01-20T18:00:47.821-05:00Campaign for the 8.5" Silent Spinner<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">We all love hamsters and so we all know that they need wheels. And since many of us have our hamsters in our room, we like to have a good, silent wheel. I remember when the Silent Spinner first made it's way on the shelves. It was asleep saver. The first actually (generally) silent wheel. Soon it was realized that the sizes were all off. 4.5" Silent Spinners are too small for dwarf and Chinese hamsters (and mice for that matter too) and the 6.5" wheel is far too small for the majority of full grown Syrian hamsters. Yet they are sold as the perfect size:<br />
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<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;">6.5" diameter wheel is ideal for hamsters, mice, gerbils, or other small animals</span><br />
Source: http://www.superpetusa.com/product-list/silent-spinner-wheel-regular.htm<br />
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Who hasn't wished for a bigger Silent Spinner? Sure you can just go and buy the 12" wheel, but it doesn't fit in all cages and unnecessarily takes up room in the cage. Not many syrians (except perhaps Swedish syrians, I'm told) actually need a 12" wheel anyway. While there are other wheels that are fairly silent they aren't always accessible to most people, while the Silent Spinner is pretty common.<br />
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Back in 2007 the pet rat community, who were all fans of Midwest's Ferret Nation cage, campaigned to have Midwest create a rat-friendly version, the Rat Nation. It worked, though was instead called the Critter Nation. Rat lovers all over the world e-mailed them and they got a spiffy, rat-specific cage. A whole new cage. Now a wheel size upgrade can't be too much to ask for in comparison, can it?<br />
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So hamster lovers, (even if you don't use the Silent Spinner yourself or if you don't have syrian hamsters to worry about please consider helping out anyway. You never know what the future might hold, right?) please contact the Super Pet Company and let them know of your interest in an 8.5" Silent Spinner. If only a few people e-mail than it won't do much, they need to see that people are really interested in this so that they know it won't be a waste of money to look into and create. So please ask other hamster lovers, re-post on hamster forums, etc. If we want this to happen then we need more than a few e-mails.<br />
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You can even look at it as helping hamsters. Think of the ignorant and misinformed people that buy the 6.5" Silent Spinner thinking it perfect for their syrian; meanwhile their syrian quickly outgrows it and then is left to gain back problems or to go without a useable wheel. Yet had the 8.5" Silent Spinner been there, marked for Syrian hamsters it would be one less issue for that hamster, right?<br />
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Consider this while writing perhaps:<br />
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-They are a business first and foremost so appeal to that side of them. You have enjoyed their products, like what they have but cannot continue to buy their products nor recommend them to anyone else so long as the wheel is too small to be safe. They don't want to lose money.<br />
-Explain what the problem is and recommend how you think it could be better (i.e it's too small, bad for their backs, needs to be bigger)<br />
-Be polite! Demanding and going 'crazy' on them will not help<br />
-If you have a picture of a syrian on a Silent Spinner that shows it's back curving than consider adding this too.<br />
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You can contact them through this e-mail address (the easiest way):<br />
customerservice@superpet.net<br />
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Or if you want to send them a physical letter then this is their contact address:<br />
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Super Pet<br />
Attn: Customer Service<br />
2121 Touhy Ave<br />
Elk Grove Village, IL <br />
60007<br />
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Or if you want to call they have a number too:<br />
1-847-956-1130<br />
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If you have any suggestions for what else should be included in the letters or what we should be asking for then please say it, hehe. Doing away with the 4.5" wheel and trading it with the 8.5" wheel (the the 6.5" becomes the new mini) seems like the ideal way to go. So please do your part and send an e-mail. It doesn't need to be long, just get the facts down. Thank you for your support!</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">~Holly, Rory and Bones</span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-17353001734361823702012-01-12T10:26:00.001-05:002012-01-12T10:28:56.908-05:00Home Health Check<div><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5615708851255476"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hamsters are prey animals and so in order to avoid looking like easy targets, they hide any illness quite well. The best way to catch a health issue early on, hopefully before it is too late to deal with, is to perform a health check up on your hamsters. This allows you to become familiar with their behaviour and their body so that you are able to detect issues right away. If your hamster seems off in any way, then it is best to consult a hamster-experienced exotic vet (most regular vets don’t know much about hamsters) in order to ensure that your hamster is alright. Health check ups should be done at least weekly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Behaviour</span><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Make time to be able to watch your hamster while they are in their home and even outside of their cage so that you may become familiar with the way that they behave. A sudden change in behaviour can indicate a health issue and so it is imperative that you are able to recognize when their behaviour is off. While health check ups can be done weekly, watching their behaviour should be a daily practice.</span></span></span><br />
<ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5615708851255476"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster grooming themselves regularly?</span></span></span></li>
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<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamsters ears perked up?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster just not behaving like themselves?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster sleeping more than normal? (note: hamsters often sleep more as they get older)</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster still running around, using their wheel, etc.?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster having problems emptying their cheek pouches?</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weight</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is important to weigh your hamster weekly, a sudden loss or gain in weight is another indication that something is wrong health-wise. Being able to detect any sudden weight changes is important and so a digital kitchen scale (one that measures per gram and not in increments) is an important tool for the health check up. You should also find somewhere to log your hamster’s weight each week.<br class="kix-line-break" />Average weight of hamsters will depend much on their diet, their environment, their sex, their species and even how well bred they are.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Syrian Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus): Can weigh anywhere from 90-200 grams, what is important is that your hamster doesn’t look obese or underweight and that they maintain their weight.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chinese Hamster (Cricetulus griseus): About 30-45 grams</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Roborovski Dwarf Hamster (Phodopus roborovskii): About 25-35 grams</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Russian Campbell Dwarf and Winter White Dwarf Hamsters (Phodopus campbelli and sungorous): About 35-55 grams. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">**Note: These are average weights</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teeth</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hamsters, have incisors that continuously grow throughout their lives and so it is important to check their teeth. Scruffing them or getting them to open their mouths while reaching for a treat is the best way to check their teeth.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are any of the teeth broken?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do the teeth seem crooked?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are any teeth missing</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are the teeth white? (Hamsters teeth should be a yellowy-orange colour, though will be more white when they are still young)</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are the teeth too long (the bottom two teeth are slightly longer than the top two) </span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster drooling?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Can your hamster eat hard foods? </span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there any foul smell coming from their mouth </span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eyes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hamsters eyes should be bright and clear. Most hamsters have black eyes, though they can have red eyes or eyes that appear red only in certain light. Hamsters can also also be born “odd-eyed”, where their eyes are two different colours.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are the eyes clear and shiny?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are they opened normally?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there anything ‘weeping’ from the eye that might indicate an infection?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are the eyes squinty?</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ears</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are the hamster’s ears upright or always folded down?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster continuously scratching at their ears?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there any discharge coming from the ears?</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nose and Lungs</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While checking your hamster’s nose it is important that you are also checking their breathing in order to check out their lungs. Hamsters can catch colds from humans, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Scents throughout the homes (air fresheners, sprays, etc.) can cause respiratory issues as well as soft wood shavings such as pine, cedar or spruce or if the bedding is too dusty. </span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the noise clean and not too wet?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there any discharge coming from the nose?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster sneezing or coughing?</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Listen closely to their breathing:</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there any odd sounds, clicks, wheezing or chirps as they breathe?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are they struggling to breathe </span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are they breathing faster than normal?</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Skin</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You will have to part the hamster’s fur in order to see their skin, be sure to do this in a couple of spots along their body, especially a spot where they may have been scratching at a lot.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the skin scaly or flaky?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the skin red or irritated?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Can you see parasites crawling around? (Some cannot be seen by the human eye)</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are there any cuts, scratches or other wounds? (Especially if your have dwarf hamsters living together)</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Water Consumption</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Watch your hamster’s water consumption, if they aren’t drinking at all than this can indicate an issue, though keep in mind that hamsters are small and they don’t drink much. If your hamster is drinking too much than this can indicate a sign of diabetes.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster drinking frequently</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster not drinking?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Has your hamster tested positive for diabetes? (This should be done regularly with urine test strips that can be obtained at the pharmacy or chemist. If you have a diabetes-prone species which include, Russian Campbell Dwarfs, hybrids, some lines of Winter White dwarfs and Chinese hamsters. )</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do a ‘tent test’ or a ‘pinch test’ of the loose skin on the hamsters shoulders. This just means that you gently pinch some of the loose skin (not to cause pain) to check if the hamster is dehydrated. The skin should snap back to normal quickly. If it goes down slowly than this means that the hamster is dehydrated.</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fur</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A hamster’s fur should be cleaned and well groomed, hamsters seem to take pride in their coat, rivaling even cats in this matter and so loss of interest in keeping well groomed is a sure sign that something is wrong. Keep in mind that long haired syrian hamsters may need assistance to keep their fur in check, brushing them daily with an unused toothbrush usually works to keep out mats and take out any tangled bedding. Other species, especially roborovski dwarfs may seem to get an oily coat, providing a sand bath for them to roll around in should help this.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the coat shiny, and not dull?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there any missing patches of fur?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the fur thinning (older hamsters often have their fur begin to thin)</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the fur well kept and groomed?</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nails</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hamsters nails can become overgrown and cause discomfort, the best way to help with this is to prevent it. The easiest way to prevent it is to provide sand for them to dig in. Others also recommend placing a rock under their water bottle. I do not recommend putting sand paper on their wheel as this can cause much discomfort to their paws. If they become too long it is easier to have a vet trim them, or at least teach you how. Otherwise be sure to get a friend to help you, this makes it much easier.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are the nails overgrown, do they twist or curl?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are any nails missing?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do your hamster’s nails seem to grow excessively? (May be an indication of diabetes)</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scent Glands</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hamsters have scent glands that allow they to mark their territory. On syrian hamsters there is one scent gland on each hip- this is normal and isn’t an issue. On other species of male hamsters, the scent gland is on the belly, about where a belly button should be and due to it’s location it is more common for it to become infected. If your hamster seems to be over scent marking their cage, especially after you clean it, then it may be an indication that they are uncomfortable with you taking away their scent. Be sure to leave a handful of old bedding aside and sprinkle it around their cage. </span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the scent gland(s) irritated, raised or crusted over?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there pus coming from the scent gland(s)?</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Genitalia and Anus</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be sure to check this area to ensure that there is no discharge and that everything is clear. Hamsters feces should be rod shaped, not to dry or too runny.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the hamster’s feces runny? (If it is a young syrian than this could be a symptom of wet tail and a vet must be sought immediately).</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is the hamster’s feces overly dry? (Your hamster needs more fresh foods in their diet if this is the case).</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there any odd discharge from any of the openings?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is their any odd smell? (Keeping in mind that females do go into heat every four days and may emit a noticeable smell be sure to remember this smell so you can determine it between smells that might indicate infection).</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there any feces stuck to your hamsters bottom?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are they red, irritated or swollen (don’t mistake testicles for swelling in males)</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster urinating frequently?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster’s urine normal? (May vary from creamy yellow to clear yellow depending on what they’ve consumed).</span></span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Physical Check Up</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check your hamster’s gait, the way they hold their body and feel over their body for any lumps or bumps.</span></span><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are there any lumps or bumps?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster walking normally, not limping or dragging their feet?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is any part of your hamster’s body swollen?</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster hunched over? (This can indicate that they are in pain)</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is your hamster have trouble with balance or even having trouble walking straight?</span></span></li>
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</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Further Reading</span></u></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a class="bbc_url" href="http://www.das-hamsterforum.de/index.php?page=Thread&threadID=121534" rel="nofollow external" style="background-color: #fafbfc; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" title="External link">Das-Hamster Forum: the Health Check (German)</a><br style="background-color: #fafbfc; color: #1c2837; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" /><a class="bbc_url" href="http://www.hamsters-uk.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=70" rel="nofollow external" style="background-color: #fafbfc; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" title="External link">National Hamster Council: Hamster Health Check</a><span style="background-color: #fafbfc; color: #1c2837; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"> </span></span> </div></span></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1965552953256712029.post-75811020693654632252012-01-05T10:52:00.000-05:002012-01-05T10:52:21.025-05:00First Aid Kit<div><b id="internal-source-marker_0.45793046918697655"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No one can ever really predict when an emergency will strike and hamsters seem to be really good at falling ill or getting hurt at odd hours making it difficult to find help when you really need it. A First Aid Kit is important to have on hand for such times or even for minor occurrences that can be taken care of at home. Below I have compiled a list of items that would be helpful and in some cases mandatory in a first aid kit. I included some things that probably aren’t one hundred percent necessary (such as the nebulizer), but would be helpful if you could obtain it. Most things should be obtained just in case however and while this kit may not be able to be put together overnight, effort should be made to fill it in before you actually need it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 15px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><ol><li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">List of exotic vets in your area: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This list should include any vets that may be able to help including a emergency vet. Research into the quality of the vet in the field of rodents should also be done beforehand so that you do not waste time going to someone who is not competent. Written for each vet should be their name, phone number, emergency number (if available) and address.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Storage Container: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A box or container of some sort to keep all of this in one spot will make everything just so much easier. To make things easier when you need to act quickly keep this container organized.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Money:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> You never know when your hamster will fall ill or become injured and exotic vets are not known for being cheap. Having a fund for the vet handy is very, very important.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Q-tips:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> are handy for applying topical medications and for cleaning out eyes or ears.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oral syringes: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Handy to feed medication, water, rehydration solutions, liquid food, etc.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fine tweezers: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">These are good for removing foreign objects from wounds.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hot water bottle/ Heating pad/ Heat lamp: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very important to have on hand to keep a cold hamster warm while they are ill, post-operation, during shock or after “hibernation” (see hibernation on the Health & Illness page for more information).</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nail Clippers</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: This are great for trimming overgrown nails, most people recommend that baby nail clippers are used as they are often easier to handle.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Surgical gauze, pads, bandages, first aid tape: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Used to cover wounds, slow blood loss and to keep the hamster from bothering their wound for the short term.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toothbrush</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Hamsters are very tidy animals and when ill they are not always able to groom themselves as they once did, especially long haired Syrian hamsters. A toothbrush is handy to have to gently brush your hamsters fur, it may also have a calming effect which may help relieve stress.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bayer’s Keto-Diastix: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is a necessity for anyone that has a diabetes prone species (Chinese, Russian Campbell dwarf, Winter White dwarf, or hybrid) in order to test your hamster’s glucose and keotone levels. Bayer’s is a bran name, any urine test strip (not blood) for humans should work just as well.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bitter apple spray: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> can be applied to keep hamsters from bothering their wounds as the taste is quite unpleasant.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cotton swabs: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Can be used to stanch bleeding, clean wounds and apply topical medication.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ear/Eye wipes:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> used to clean out ears or eyes.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sanitary wipes: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">another item that is useful to clean minor wounds or to even wipe down your own hands quickly</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scissors:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Handy for cutting bandages to size or for trimming fur around a wound.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Travel/ Hospital cage: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A cage or aquarium that will allow you to bring your hamster to and from the vet easily is great to have on hand. As for the hospital cage, it is more important when you have a group of hamsters, as the ill or injured one may be picked one while ill or could be contagious (depending what is ailing them).</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gram scale:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> A scale is very beneficial to have on sand should you have to weigh medication. More commonly it is best used to weigh your hamster. Weighing your hamster daily and keeping a log can help you detect signs of illness early on.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nebulizer: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This can be used to turn medication into a fine mist that can then be inhaled. I am not certain which medications this would be bets used for, be sure to consult your vet before trying this. It likely isn’t something that the average hamster owner will need, but is something to keep in mind.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Latex (or any medical grade gloves) gloves: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For your own safety and to keep contamination to a wound or to another animal at minimal risk.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Small Towel: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This can be used to help keep your hamster warm or to help constrain them safely.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hand Sanitizer:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> While washing your hands before and after working with an ill animal is best, hand sanitizer works well in a fix.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Penlight: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Allows for a more detailed examination or a wound.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Magnifying glass: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To help you get a better look at wounds.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Black Light:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to distinguish blood vs. porphyrin, not exactly necessary but it can be helpful.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Saline solution or eye cleansing drops (ex: Polysporin for eyes): </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is good to have on hand to flush eyes from debris and ease irritation.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Olive Oil/ Cod Liver Oil:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Helpful for relieving constipation, one to two drops orally or on some fresh food should be enough.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unflavoured Pedialyte/ Recipe & Ingredients for Rehydration solution: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unflavoured Pedialyte should be able to be obtained from a pharmacy/chemist and should be used 50/50 with water to help rehydrate a hamster. Otherwise you can use the following recipe, it works too:</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 tsp of salt<br class="kix-line-break" />3 tbsp sugar<br class="kix-line-break" />1 quart warm water</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It can keep for 48 hours if refrigerated.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Water</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Can be used to water down the Pedialyte.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Manuka honey UMF +16: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If dabbed on a wound topically daily than this honey can help the wound heal and stay clean from infection. Some have called it almost magical as it works so effectively.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pure organic Aloe or Aloe vera plant: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is great for irritated wounds, burns or stings and will help relieve discomfort and help heal. If you have a plant then simply take a leaf and rip it in half and apply the gel-like substance that comes from the leaf.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chlorhexidine:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> This is an animal-safe disinfectant, it can usually be obtained from a veterinarian.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fresh thyme:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Thyme has a multitude of uses such as cleaning a wound, aiding in respiratory distress, keeping infections at bay, etc. For wounds you simply need to make a tea with the leaves (I’ve used dried thyme for this with success too) and allow it to cool and than apply to the wound twice daily until the wound is healed. For respiratory issues, simply putting it near your hamster or allowing your hamster to breath in the steam of the tea is said to help. Some have even mentioned allowing them to drink the cooled tea in order to reduce stress. It might be beneficial to simply have a thyme plant on hand so you don’t need to run out to get fresh thyme when ever it is needed.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Revolution/ Invectermin , parasite treatment: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is always nice to have on hand for mites, lice, or other parasites. I use Revolution myself with much success and it is easy to apply, the only concern is that it is made for dogs or cats and must so then be measured out for the right dosage. For my hamsters it worked out to about one drop per hamster each treatment. Revolution in unopened tubes also have a long shelf life. I recommend topical treatments over powders, sprays or baths as they are quick, clean and not stressful to your hamster.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Epsom salt</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Epsom salt mixed with luke-warm water is a good way to clean wounds and flush out debris from wounds. I have also found it useful as a solution to aid with abscesses by making a paste to draw out the puss and to keep it clean. I use the Epsom salt with warm water to create a paste to put on the abscess for 10-15 minutes twice a day. (If the abscess is near the face or isn't going away after a week or so then I would get your ham to a vet and not take any chances.).</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda):</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> when used with a wet compress this can help to reduce swelling.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Benebac or plain yogurt:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Benebac can be found at most pet stores and is a powder that can be applied to fresh food or mixed with water to maintain beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract that antibiotics can also kill. Directions for use are on the package. Plain yogurt can be fed daily as well for the same reasons.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Styptic powder or flour: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Great for if you cut the quick with trimming nails or for other toe injuries. This will help to stop the bleeding, toe wounds can bleed a surprising amount!</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ensure, Baby food/cereal:</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> This is great for weak, ill, old, young hamsters or hamsters with broken teeth (or other teeth issues). It can help them build their strength and get the food that they need.</span></li>
</ol></span></b></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873185685120988261noreply@blogger.com2