Odor Controller

Question
QUESTION: I want to ask that can I use normal ordinary used odor controller for hamsters which is used in toilets etc. Second thing is that I want qute hamsters, what kind of dwarf hamsters should I purchase and what should I check while purchasing because previous four syrian hamster died soon after I purchased them which I have told you in my previous question. Thanks.

ANSWER: Hi Mohsin

You can't use ordinary disinfectants on hamsters - they are far too strong and will seriously hurt them or kill them.  You need to get a special disinfectant that is designed specially for small animals.  Use this when you clean out their cage every week.    Don't use any perfumes, air fresheners etc. near the hamster cage as these can cause allergies for hamsters.

Regarding cute hamsters - Winter Whites are supposed to be easier than Campbells (Campbells have a reputation for biting when they reach adulthood). Robos are great fun especially if you keep a few (single sex - otherwise you will be over-run by them) together - but they are very fast and not easy to handle.

Regards

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I want to keep Winter Whites, can they live in temperature of 45C to 50C as it is very hot in summer in our country. Also please advise what I should check for a healthy winter white.

Answer
Hi

In the wild Winter Whites used to live in temperatures that range from below zero to unbearably hot.  They are more active at night when the temperature cools right down.  I've no first hand experience of having them in places where the temperature is as high as you've mentioned as in the UK it would be exceptional if not impossible for us to have temperatures like the ones you mention, and it might therefore be worth going onto a forum and seeing if there is anyone who can advise on this.  One such forum is: www.furrycritters.co.uk.  I would advise, however, that you get a large tank that has a lot of ventillation in the lid or a wire lid so allow the air to circulate to prevent over-heating.

With regard to choosing healthy hamsters - the first thing to look for are obvious signs of ill health - have a look in the cage to see what its droppings are like - that they are normal and not runny, that the hamster looks bright, clear eyes, no missing fur, dry rear end, no discharges.  See if the shop assistant will handle them - if not - is it because the hamster bites?  I don't know if you are planning on breeding them, if so, you want ones with a good temperament otherwise they will pass this onto their offspring.  If you go to the shop when the temperature is high during the day, the hamsters will probably be sleeping, therefore you may not be able to assess them, therefore if possible try and go during a cooler time of day if you can.

Regards