You might find a dwarf hamster in your neighbor’s lap, that looks so cute and lovable. That Hmaster can be The Roborovski hamster , also known as the Roborovski dwarf hamster , one of the smallest and fastest hamster species. These adorable creatures are known for their high energy levels, unique fur colors, and fascinating behaviors. If you’re considering getting a Roborovski hamster as a pet or want to learn more about them, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about their characteristics, housing, diet, care, and breeding.

The Roborovski hamster originates from the deserts of Mongolia, northern China, and parts of Russia. They are desert-dwelling creatures known for their ability to survive in harsh conditions. These hamsters are well adapted to extreme temperatures and arid environments, which makes them hardy pets when given proper care. They have unique fur coats that provide insulation and help them blend into their natural habitat.

Roborovski hamsters are among the smallest hamster species , measuring approximately 4-5 cm in length and weighing around 20-25 grams. Due to their small size and high energy levels, they are incredibly fast and difficult to catch, making them unsuitable for young children who want a pet they can handle frequently. Their activity levels are highest at night, as they are nocturnal creatures, though they may also be active during dawn and dusk. While they are not aggressive, their speed makes handling them challenging.

The colour of the robo pig that you found in your neighbour can seem unique. Roborovski hamsters come in a variety of colors and patterns, which make them even more appealing as pets. 

• Agouti (wild type) , which features a sandy-brown coat with a white belly, helping them blend into desert surroundings.

• Another popular variant is the White-Faced Roborovski , which has the same brownish coat but with a fully white face, making them easily recognizable.

• Also, the Pied Roborovski , has mixed white and brown patches, giving them a striking, spotted appearance.

• The Platinum Roborovski has a lighter, almost silvery coat, making it look more elegant and rare.

• There is also a Blue Roborovski variation, which has a bluish-gray tint, although this color is extremely rare and often the result of selective breeding.

These different colors add to the charm of owning a Roborovski hamster, as each one has a unique appearance.

Providing a comfortable and safe environment is essential for the well-being of a Roborovski hamster . Due to their small size, they require a secure enclosure to prevent escape. The ideal enclosure can be a large glass or plastic tank with proper ventilation, as wire cages can pose an escape risk. The minimum cage size recommended for a single hamster is 80 cm x 50 cm , as they need ample space to explore and exercise.

Bedding

Bedding is a crucial aspect of their habitat. A thick layer of paper-based or aspen bedding should be provided to allow them to burrow, as they naturally do in the wild. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as these materials can cause respiratory issues. A multi-level setup can be beneficial for exercise, but ensure that ramps and platforms are safe and easy to climb.

Interactive Toys

An exercise wheel is a must-have accessory, as Roborovski hamsters are incredibly active and need to burn off their energy. The wheel should be solid-surfaced to prevent injury and should be at least 8 inches in diameter. Additionally, tunnels, chew toys, and climbing structures should be provided to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated.

Temperature Requirements

Although the Roborovski Hamster are found in deserts, they are not used to frequent temperature fluctuations. Maintaining an optimal temperature of 20-24°C (68-75°F) in their environment is essential to prevent stress and health issues but they can bear the temperature to 27°C. Exceeding this temperature limit can be dangerous as they can suffer heatstroke or from any ski-related issues. It is better to provide them with a stable shelter where they can be safe from both summer and winter.

• During Summer: It is better to keep them indoors in a cold place. You can keep them in an enclosed area or can be kept on cool surfaces.

• During Winters: Consider keeping them in an area that is not too cold. Prefer covering their cage at night, and avoid direct contact with floors or cold areas. You can use good bedding to keep them warm and cozy.

A well-balanced diet is key to keeping your Roborovski hamster healthy and active. These hamsters primarily consume seeds, grains, and fresh vegetables, but they also require protein sources to stay fit. High-quality hamster pellets should be the staple of their diet, supplemented with a mix of sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, and oats.

You can also consider giving fresh vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and leafy greens, but should be provided in small amounts. These help keep them hydrated and provide essential vitamins. Protein sources like mealworms, boiled eggs, or tofu can be given occasionally to ensure they receive enough protein for muscle development. Always ensure a continuous supply of fresh water through a bottle with a spout, as hydration is crucial for their health.

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can be harmful to Roborovski hamsters and should be avoided at all costs as they are allergic. Some vegetables can be toxic and can cause digestive issues, also processed and sugary foods are high in calories and can lead to diabetes and obesity. Here are the lists of some foods that should be avoided.

• Onions

• Garlic

• Leeks

• Chocolate and sugary foods

• Almonds

• Citrus fruits

• Raw beans

• Potatoes.

Hydration

With the proper diet and nutrition, pet parents should also ensure adequate water intake. Water offers various benefits such as it controls numerous bodily functions including digestion, transportation, and temperature regulation. Adequate water intake also supports kidney health as it makes the process of waste filtration easy and smooth. Even if water affects the stool quality, proper intake means proper circulation which leads to proper excretion.

Even if you are doing all the essential steps and taking the best care of your Roborovski hamster, there are chances that he can get health problems. These types of problems are very evident and normal. Here are some of the common health problems:

Wet Tails 

Wet tails is a bacterial infection that can cause intense diarrhea and dehydration. It can be fatal if left untreated, symptoms can be like Watery stools, lethargy, loss of appetite, hunched posture, and a wet, matted tail. If your hamster is suffering from wet tails, then it is advised to act fast, contact your vet, and get it treated as soon as possible.

Respiratory Problems

Often there are chances that your hamster can get respiratory problems due to bad ventilation, dusty bedding, or stress. Under this problem, your pet will be facing problems like Sneezing, wheezing, runny nose or eyes, labored breathing, and lethargy. This can be prevented if you take care of proper ventilation and provide your pet clean environment. Even if your pet is suffering it is better to seek vet help as it can’t be treated at home.

Dental Problem 

Like the Guinea Pig, Hamster’s incisors also grow with time. If not taken care of or treated well, it can overgrow and can cause difficulty in eating. You can’t prevent dental problems if you are proactive enough and keep on giving them chew foods and pellets which will help in wearing down the teeth. But if your pet is still facing the problem of overgrown teeth, you should contact a vet, if not then it can cause problems like drooling, weight loss, and low or no appetite.

You might find your neighbour’s hamster so cute but ever thought of the reason. It is because your neighbour is taking good care of their grooming needs. Although that pet is small but still needs grooming sessions from time to time.

Sand Bath

Hamsters are originally desert dwellers, they love sand, and giving a sand bath will be a healthy option. But you have to be aware while choosing sand for the bath. Go for high-quality fine, chinchilla-specific sand or reptile sand. Try to avoid calcium-based sands or those with added dust, as these can irritate their respiratory systems. You can give them a sand bath several times a week, depending on their needs and wants, just keep replacing the sand after every bath. Also, due to their size you don’t need an extra space for the bath, you can use a shallow dish or container large enough for your hamster to roll in.

Fur Care 

Although hamsters don’t need much bathing, once or twice fur grooming can be enough in a month. One thing you should take care is that avoid using water baths as it can stress hamsters and strip their fur of essential oils. Try to use a damp cloth instead to spot-clean if absolutely necessary. On the other hand, brushing should be done gently with a soft-bristled brush that can help remove loose fur and debris, especially during shedding periods.

Roborovski hamsters are fast and skittish, making them difficult to handle compared to other hamster species. If you want to tame them, patience and consistency are key. Start by allowing them to get used to your scent by placing your hand inside their cage. Gradually offer treats from your hand to build trust. Avoid grabbing them suddenly, as this can startle them and make them fearful of handling.

With time, they may begin climbing onto your palm voluntarily. The best time to interact with them is during their active hours, which are early morning or late evening. While they may never be as tame as larger hamster species, with patience, they can become comfortable around humans and may even enjoy exploring outside their enclosure in a secure, enclosed area.

Breeding Roborovski hamsters requires careful planning and knowledge. They reach sexual maturity at around 4-6 months of age, and their gestation period lasts approximately 20-22 days. A typical litter consists of 3-6 pups, and the mother takes full responsibility for raising them. It is important to separate the father if aggression occurs, as male hamsters may sometimes show territorial behavior towards newborns.

Baby hamsters should stay with their mother until they are at least 3-4 weeks old, after which they can be separated. Ensuring that both parents are healthy before breeding is crucial, as inbreeding or poor genetics can lead to health problems in offspring. If you plan on breeding, be prepared to find suitable homes for the babies and provide them with proper care.

Let’s sum up this in a table:

The Roborovski dwarf hamster price in India varies based on location and breeder reputation. On average, they cost between ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 at pet stores. However, reputable breeders may charge between ₹2,500 - ₹5,000, as they ensure better genetic health and proper care for the hamsters. The cost of accessories and maintenance, including food, bedding, and toys, can range from ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 per month.

Owning a hamster requires ongoing expenses, as they need fresh food, quality bedding, and regular cage cleaning to maintain a healthy environment. It is advisable to purchase from ethical breeders or consider adoption to ensure the hamster’s well-being.

The Roborovski hamster is an exciting and adorable pet for experienced owners. Their fast-paced lifestyle, cute appearances, and unique behaviors make them fascinating to watch. However, they require proper care, a spacious environment, and a lot of patience. If you’re ready for an active and independent pet, the Roborovski dwarf hamster might be the perfect choice for you.

With the right care, environment, and understanding of their needs, you can ensure that your Roborovski hamster lives a happy and healthy life. Whether you are a first-time hamster owner or a seasoned pet enthusiast, this guide should help you provide the best care possible.