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How to feed, exercise, give treats, and handle your new hamster?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male

I'm a new hamster owner and I have a couple of concerns. 1. How often do I feed him or do I always make sure he has food. I have a auto feeder but I don't want him to over eat. 2. How often and how long should he exercise for, I only have a ball cause the wheel I have is to small. 3. What can I give him for treats and how often. 4. Do they like being petted cause I feel like I might be annoying him. Thank you in advance.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 29th, 2018

Feeding: Feed according to the instructions on the bag of food you are using. It also depends on the hamsters age. I would recommend you use a high quality diet like Oxbow. Remember, they are very small and don't need to eat much. ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/oxbow-15-oz-oat-hay ) Treats: Once a week you can consider giving your hamster a treat by providing some a small amount of boiled egg or some fruits/veggies. Many hamsters like cauliflower, broccoli, pear, peach and banana. Always remember to remove any uneaten food from your hamster’s cage so that it doesn’t rot. You can also feed commercial treats in place of the above: ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/oxbow-timothy-club-bungalow-medium ) Exercise: If you put him the hamster ball it is recommended that you not leave him in there more than 20 minutes per day. Handling: I suggest you refer to this page for ideas on how to get your hamster used to you: ( http://thehamsterhouse.com/big-hamster-care-guide/5/ ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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