Here we can see, “How to Look After a Robo (Roborovski) Hamster as a Pet”
The Roborovski hamster, or Robo hamster for short, is the smallest species of hamster in the Phodopus genus. These little rodents, sometimes known as the Robo dwarf hamster, are often swift and curious, although they can also be timid. However, most hamsters are peaceful creatures that can cohabit with other hamsters of their kind. They can also learn to be at ease around other individuals.
However, they aren’t the simplest to hand-tame because of their small size, agility, and shy demeanour. In addition, they are typically sandy in colour, though there are various variants, and they have white dots over their eyes that resemble brows. Nevertheless, Robo hamsters are easy to care for, requiring only a simple feed and frequent habitat cleaning.
Temperament and Behavior of Robo Hamsters
Robo hamsters are nocturnal, waking up in the dark and remaining busy all night. While they occasionally make extremely soft vocalisations, their midnight activity may cause a problem for some individuals. If you are a light sleeper, you should avoid keeping their enclosure in your bedroom.
These hamsters are low-maintenance pets that might be amusing to observe. However, they are not cuddly animals and dislike being handled. While they are normally calm, if you startle them, they may nip.
They can, however, learn to know their people and may approach the edge of their enclosure if you’re around (especially if you’re delivering a reward). They should be maintained separate from other household pets, but they can live in same-sex pairs or small groups with other Robo hamsters. They get along best if they are raised together from a young age. Otherwise, some territorial concerns may arise.
Size Specifications
Robo hamsters are approximately two inches long and weigh roughly an ounce. They are less than an inch in length at birth. They mature at roughly 2 months of age.
Housing
Choose a space that is at least two feet long, one foot broad, and one foot high. Larger is usually better, as this is where your animal will get the majority of its activity and mental stimulation. The most common habitat options are glass or plastic aquarium with a secure lid and ventilation or a wire cage with a plastic foundation. Make sure that any wire spacing is small enough that your hamster cannot squeeze through.
Include a chew toy and an exercise wheel with a solid surface (not bars) for your hamster to run on. Also, include a nest or sleeping hut where your hamster can feel safe. Keep the enclosure away from draughts and direct sunshine as well.
Specific Substrate Requirements
Add a 1- to 2-inch layer of bedding to the bottom of the enclosure. Chemical- and dye-free shredded paper and aspen shavings are two options. Use no cedar or pine shavings or corncob byproduct bedding since these can harm your health.
What Food and Drink Do Robo Hamsters Consume?
Choose a commercial hamster meal developed specifically for dwarf hamsters. Follow the feeding recommendations on the label and ask your veterinarian about the amount. You should feed your hamster once a day in a tiny dish. This is best done in the evening when the hamster is just waking up. After 24 hours, throw away any uneaten food.
You may also provide tiny amounts of other foods such as some seeds, cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Oats, blueberries, and carrots are a few examples. Consult your veterinarian about appropriate foods for your hamster and the amount you can feed. To avoid spoiling, remove any perishable goods from the cage after a few hours.
Finally, keep fresh water available for your hamster at all times. You can serve it in either a tiny plate or a bottle. A bottle is usually more sanitary, although not all hamsters understand how to use it at first. So keep a water dish and a bottle in the habitat until the hamster drinks from the bottle.
Common Health Issues
Hamsters are susceptible to several health issues, including:
- Hair loss and skin problems are frequently caused by germs, parasites, fungal illnesses, or allergies.
- Diarrhoea is also known as the wet tail.
- Infections or allergies can cause respiratory illnesses.
- A lack of chewable items typically causes overgrown teeth to wear them down as they grow naturally.
Training
Handling your hamster calmly and gently from a young age can assist to hand-tame it, while some hamsters will never be comfortable handling it. Never squeeze or jostle your hamster’s hands. When handling your hamster, sit on the ground in a safe location. Dropping a hamster even a few feet from the ground can hurt the small animal. Holding a favourite goodie and making the handling a joyful experience will encourage your hamster to sit on your hands.
Exercise
If hamsters do not get enough exercise, they can develop obesity and other health problems. This is why it’s critical to have an exercise wheel and as large an enclosure as you can accommodate and afford. Outside of their enclosure, hamsters can also run about on exercise balls. Ensure the ball is appropriate for a dwarf hamster and keep an eye on it outside the enclosure.
Grooming
Hamsters are generally clean animals who groom themselves well. Therefore, they don’t need to be bathed. However, if they have dirt or debris lodged in their fur, you can help clean it by gently massaging the fur with a damp towel.
Costs of Maintenance
The primary monthly expenses for a Robo hamster will be food and bedding. Expect to pay between $20 and $40 a month, depending on the types you select and the size of your enclosure. You’ll also need to regularly replenish chew sticks, nests, and other toys, which will cost you roughly $10. In addition, budget for a yearly veterinary wellness checkup and emergency vet care.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Owning a Robo Hamster as a Pet
Robo hamsters are fascinating little critters that are enjoyable to watch and quite simple to care for. They are also silent and take up little room. They are, however, not the most cuddly of pets. Because they are nocturnal, you may not see them at their most active. Furthermore, they are so small, swift, and delicate that they can be difficult to handle.
Animals that are similar to Robo Hamsters
If you’re looking for information on Robo hamsters, go to:
- Mouse
- Gerbil
- Syrian hamster
Otherwise, look at these amazing exotic animals for your next pet.
Buying or Adopting a Robo Hamster
To buy a Robo hamster, look for a responsible breeder or rescue group. You’ll be more likely to get reliable information about the animal’s health, history, and temperament. There are rescue groups dedicated exclusively to small animals in various places, and animal shelters may occasionally have acceptable hamsters. Expect to pay approximately $20, though this can vary based on factors such as the age and amount of animal tameness.
Reproduction/Breeding
An exotic veterinarian may recommend a good Robo hamster breeder. Before deciding, look for a breeder who allows you to visit the animals. Try to choose an active and awake animal, but keep in mind that you may be visiting during its typical sleeping hours. It needs to be kept in sanitary circumstances, with clean fur and eyes. Its droppings should likewise be well-formed.
If you have many hamsters and aren’t interested in becoming a breeder, keep them separately or with members of the same sex. If you’re doubtful, have your hamster’s sex confirmed by a veterinarian.
User Questions
Are Robo hamsters difficult to care for?
Robo hamster care is rather simple, mostly daily feedings and regular habitat cleanings.
Is the Robo hamster fond of being held?
Robo hamsters can become accustomed to being carried, but they are frequently challenging to manage due to their small size and speed.
Robo hamsters can bite.
Even with supervision, the Roborovski hamster is not a good companion for a youngster due to its size, speed, and risk of biting. They are vulnerable to injuries such as shattered bones, eyes popping out, being crushed to death, or being dropped. In addition, a scared Robo may bite. They do not nip like a Syrian; instead, they bite and cling.
Is the Robo hamster a good pet for children?
Robo hamsters make excellent pets for older children who can be gentle with them.
Do Robo hamsters ever get lonely?
These are usually relatively young animals that have not yet grown enough to become territorial or aggressive. It’s tempting to bring home more than one hamster to keep the lonely one company, but hamsters are solitary creatures. Dwarf hamsters can be exceptions, but you must keep a close eye on them.
Conclusion
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