my first hamsters!!!!

Question
hello um...i just bought two cute hamsters for my nephew and i had a couple of questions.... how many times a week should i clean their cage? what food portions would be good?...because they seem like relatively small hamsters. also taking care of their environment? heaters? what type of diet? because i want them to live long....thank you  

Answer
Hi Vivian,

Hamsters are great pets. Are the two hamsters housed together. If so, they need to be separated immediately.  Unfortunately, hamsters are very territorial and will fight and/or kill each other. By keeping them in the same cage, one will eventually get severely injured. The cage should be cleaned once a week on average. You should fill your food bowl up just slightly more then one flat layer. You should check on the food everyday and if it's gone refill. You'll usually have to refill it every other day. I would get them chew toys and a hiding hut for inside their cages. No heaters will be necessary as hamsters are housed at room temperature. If you want the hamsters to be comfortable with him, you should make sure he is holding and/or petting them everyday. As long as you never do anything that could put them in danger, they should live long happy lives. Write me back  if anything happens or if you have any questions. I hope everything works out for you. GOOD LUCK!

Regards,
Sam