No matter what kind of pet you are going to purchase, supplies are essential to being able to provide the care necessary to take care of that pet.  The Dwarf hamster is no different from owning other types of pets; they need certain supplies in order to live comfortably and healthy in a home setting.

The most important supply when it comes to caring for a dwarf hamster is in the cage.

More about the Dwarf hamster housing

Substrate

The most important aspect to the hamster cage is the substrate.  The best substrate nesting material is:

• Alder shavings, wood shavings, packaged and meant for hamster bedding material, low dust as possible

Substrate materials to AVOID:

• Never use cedar shavings as bedding material as some dwarf hamsters can develop allergies and become sick..

Place about one to two inches of substrate upon the entire floor of the cage.  By building up the substrate to five or six inches on one or both sides of the cage allows the dwarf hamster an interesting area to climb and dig.

More Dwarf Hamster substrate information click here.

Hamster Potty

• Dwarf hamsters  can be trained to use a litter box.  Look for droppings that are all found in one area of the cage as they tend to like to pick one spot.
• A “hamster potty” can be found at some pet supply stores.  Place the potty in the same place that you noticed the droppings.  You will need to fill the potty pelleted newspaper cat litter but you should never use clay or clumping cat litter as they can cause digestive or respiratory problems for your dwarf hamster.

Why Hamster chew toys are needed

Another important dwarf hamster supply is chew toys.  Most people associate chew toys with a pet dog rather then a pet hamster but, chew toys are an important part of the hamster world.

• Hamsters’ teeth never stop growing.  If they don’t constantly file them down, they would grow so large that the hamster would no longer be able to close its mouth and could starve to death.
• Chew toys for hamsters come in a variety of sizes, colors, and shapes.  They are almost all made of soft wood.
• These toys need to be check on a daily basis to ensure that they stay safe and unsoiled for the hamster’s use.
• Avoid plastic toys as pieces can break off and sharp rough edges can hurt your hamster.

Fresh Water Supply

In order to ensure that you hamster stays healthy and hydrated you will need to supply your dwarf hamster with a fresh water supply.

• A water bottle that hangs on the side of the cage is perfect for these small pets. Make sure it is low enough that the Dwarf hamster can easily reach it.
• Most hamsters catch on early on how to use these bottles and they keep the cages tidy lowering the risk of substrate ending up in a water bowl or a bowl getting knocked over and spilled.
• Keep an eye on the water bottle on a daily basis.  Make sure that they hamster is receiving fresh water and that they bottle is free of leaks or cracks

Hamster House for Privacy

Another important dwarf hamster supply is a house that the hamster can make a nest in.  They are normally shy creatures and appreciate a place to hide.

With no concerns with humidity or temperature, the supplies needed to keep your dwarf hamster are limited and easy enough to supply.  When picking a location for your pet’s home, avoid placing in direct sunlight , near heaters or fans and where there are drafts.

Dwarf Hamster Sized wheel

Dwarf hamsters need enough space to run around and love to run on exercise wheels. Avoid using wheels that have rungs and that are open as your hamster could injure themselves. When purchasing a wheel consider the size of your hamster and consider a wheel that is made for their size.