Hamster Obesiety?

Question
My hamster is seriously in my opinion bigger than what it should be.
How big are they supposed to get? My hamster is a syrian short haired. It
began getting bigger this one week where my family overfed her and she
got bigger from then on. Now she just runs in her wheel and then gets off, stands on her feet and goes to the bars and does
it all over again. I feel bad for her and i want to help her lose
weight. Please tell me what i can do and thanks :]  

Answer
Hi Danielle

Some hamsters do get quite large, especially the female Syrian teddy bears.  For most, this is OK, but if you think she is over weight, then watch what you are giving her to eat - don't give any treats - especially the ones that contain fat (yoghurt drops etc) or honey (this is used to stick nuts onto sticks etc.).  Make sure she has a good hamster dry mix, and daily fresh vegetables (avoid giving too much lettuce as this can cause diarrhea).  I would also avoid giving fruit - both dried and fresh because of the sugar content.

I would also suggest you get her a hamster exercise ball if you don't already have one.  These are great - tape over any joins and the doors when she is in it otherwise these balls can open if banged into furniture.  If she just goes in it and falls asleep, get her out again.  Most times, they are such nosey creatures they love running around in these as they can sniff through the gaps in them.  Alternatively, if you have an area of your home that you can make totally hamster proof - i.e. no furniture she can get lost under or behind, no wires etc.  I often sit in my hallway and close all the doors and stay with any hamster I think needs a bit more exercise or a chance to explore.  Don't leave her unattended at any time in case she does manage to find a way out.

Good luck with this.

Regards