Caring for jungaria at home. All the most important about breeding Djungarian hamsters at home

People take to their homes as pets not only cats or dogs, but also other animals. For example, the Dzungarian hamster (dzhungarik) has gained considerable popularity, the maintenance and reproduction of which is relatively simple. This small rodent has become in demand due to its cleanliness and the complete absence of any odors, which is important for households. Sometimes they bite, but often this is a defensive reaction - the animal will need time to adapt.

Who are the Jungars

The Djungarian hamster is a representative of the genus of the upland hamsters of the Khomyakov family. This popular pet can be up to 10 cm tall. Djungarian hamsters differ from their wild relatives in color. As for the habitat of the latter, they are common in semi-deserts and dry steppes. Before you take such a pet to your home, find out everything about the appearance of the animal, average life expectancy, nutrition and other important parameters.

What do jungars look like?

Caring for Djungarian hamsters at home is no more difficult than keeping a cat. This domestic rodent has a light belly and back with a brownish-gray or ocher-gray coat color. A narrow black stripe runs along the spine. In nature, in summer, a grayish color predominates in Dzungarian rodents, and in winter their coat acquires a white color, which has a silvery-white tint. The muzzle of such a hamster has a pointed shape, the ears are small, and the finger tubercles are hidden under the thick hair covering the soles of the paws.

Where do Djungarian hamsters live in nature

The Dzungarian hamster lives mainly in the steppe area. He hides from predatory animals by hiding in the snow and disguising himself. IN wild nature it is found in the expanses of Western Siberia, North-Eastern Kazakhstan and Central and Central Asia. In addition, these rodents were also seen in Altai - their place of life was at an altitude of 2.5 thousand meters above sea level. In nature, dzhungars inhabit a semi-desert area with stony patches, cinquefoil and wormwood steppes without shrubs. They are very rare on cultivated land.

How many live

The question often arises, how long do Djungarian hamsters live at home? Their life expectancy is about 3 years, although, under favorable conditions, this period can be 4 years, but this is an exception rather than a rule. True, in the wild, this tiny animal, capable of quickly becoming attached to a person, lives no more than 1.5 years. In their natural environment, many dangers await Djungarians: diseases, predators, lack of food and harsh winter conditions.

How to determine the age

If you decide to buy a dwarf hamster in one of the pet stores in the city, then it would be nice to learn how to determine the age of the dwarfs. This is due to the fact that in the store, instead of a young rodent, you can slip an old animal. Even a specialist cannot accurately determine how many weeks the animal will be, so you can only know the age approximately. Ways:

• Fur on the ears. In old hamsters, it is practically absent, while in a young individual, the ears are covered with a small layer of white fur.
• You can distinguish an old animal from a young one by behavior. The former prefer sleep, they eat less. Young except for sleep time are always active.
• The key way to determine age is weight. In the first three months, the weight of the jungarik in most cases does not exceed 40 g.
• Notice the fur. Up to 5 days of life, it is almost gone. Individuals at the age of 5-15 days do not yet have a full coat of wool. They begin to overgrow with it after 14 days.
• You can also determine whether it is worth buying a rodent by the eyes. If they are cloudy, then the animal has diseases or is in old age. If the eyes shine with activity, then the rodent is healthy and young.

How to keep a Djungarian hamster at home

It is very convenient to keep jungars at home, because. they do not require careful care and after them you do not need to constantly clean up, unlike other pets. Pay attention to the choice of a suitable cage and bedding filler, which must be safe for the health of the rodent, have the ability to absorb moisture, and absorb unpleasant odors. Particular attention should be paid to nutrition - you can use special feed. The cage of the jungarik must be cleaned periodically.

Cage for Djungarian hamster

The pet is recommended to be kept in a spacious cage. At the same time, equip it with a wheel, because young hamsters are very active. IN natural conditions per night in search of food, they are able to run 5-10, so it is important to create the appropriate conditions inside the cage. The best choice would be a wheel, the working surface of which should have a grid with small cells so that the hamster's legs do not slip. Please note that it is not recommended to keep more than one individual in a cage, because. Dzungars will start fighting for territory. The cage must be equipped with:

• a special drinker with a volume of about 50 ml (water must be changed every day);
• a feeder with a width of 3-5 cm - select it according to the size of the rodent;
• a house, which, if necessary, can be attached to the wall of the cage;
• manholes - they can serve as tubes, branches, roots;
• a special toilet designed for small rodents.

reproduction

Dzungaria breed well, but it is better for them to live alone, because. living together causes them aggression and confusion. In the litter, dzhungariks have from 1 to 11 cubs, which are fed with mother's milk for 19 days. Under natural conditions, rodents breed from March to September, at home - almost all year round, which is convenient for commercial breeding. Pregnancy of females lasts from 18 to 22 days. Sexual maturity in Dzhungaria begins at 4-6 weeks. For the normal maintenance of a pregnant individual, it is necessary to create calm and comfortable conditions.

How to care for a Djungarian hamster

In addition to housing for the animal, pay special attention to nutrition. Equally important is the choice of filler - do not choose newspapers and cotton wool. The best option would be sawdust, wood, cellulose or corn filler. The latter is considered the standard and therefore it is expensive. The instinct to dig minks has been preserved in domesticated individuals. Before giving birth, you need to perform a complete disinfection of the cage, and for childbirth you will need a one-story house.

Diseases

If your pet begins to sneeze and sniffle, and activity has decreased significantly, then there is a possibility that he has picked up a viral infection. The principle of such an ailment is no different from human diseases, so the virus can be transmitted without problems from the owner to the pet, and vice versa. There is no treatment as such, but try to provide the jungarik with fresh vegetables and fruits. Rodents get injured when falling or other unfortunate circumstances while running around. Other ailments:

• If your Djungarian pet has stuck eyelids, then there is a chance that the infection has developed into conjunctivitis. To cure a rodent, you will need to gently rinse the eyes with salted water. If the pupil area is gray and the lens itself is cloudy, then he most likely has a cataract. She is not subject to treatment.
• The sudden refusal of the Dzungarian rodent from food is often associated with trauma to the teeth. Carefully check if the pet's incisors are broken. Sometimes the reason for refusing food is too long teeth - entrust the trimming of the incisors to a qualified veterinarian.
• If the animal's hair falls out or the skin peels off, then there is a possibility of eczema or dermatophytosis. Seek help from a veterinarian who will prescribe a course of necessary antibiotics.
• Have you noticed that the dzhungari often combs himself or a lot of red spots and wounds appear on the body of the animal? These symptoms may indicate the presence of fleas or ticks. Use the services of a specialist - he will prescribe a lotion or aerosol that is suitable for your pet.

Nutrition

Having decided to get a jungarik, take seriously the preparation of a diet for him. These rodents quickly gain weight, so obesity is one of the main reasons that shortens their lifespan. The main component of the diet of such a hamster is grain food, in addition to which you can give various crunchy treats. They will give him not only pleasure, but also bring considerable benefits, grinding incisors that are constantly growing. You need to feed the Dzungarian rodent no more than 2 times a day - in the morning and in the evening.

What do Djungarian hamsters like

When planning to buy food, choose one that is designed for dwarf hamsters. The advantage of such store-bought food is the balance and availability of all the vitamins and microelements necessary for the rodent. The diet of a Dzungarian pet should include foods such as seeds, nuts, wheat, bamboo sprouts. These hamsters are happy to eat pieces fresh fruit and vegetables. Every 7-10 days, give your pet pure protein food, such as dairy products, pieces of lean fish and boiled chicken fillet.

What not to feed

Under no circumstances should you ever feed your hamster salted, smoked or fatty foods, as well as products from the common table. In addition, avocados, kiwi, pomegranates, citrus fruits, sorrel, garlic, onions, mushrooms and cabbage are contraindicated for jungarik. Some other products should not be present in the menu of the Dzungarian rodent: cheese, bread, potatoes, sweets. When feeding such a pet, consider their predisposition to diabetes.

Price for Djungarian hamsters

Such rodents can be found in many large pet stores, because they are in considerable demand. To find out how much a Djungarian hamster costs on average, go around as many specialized outlets as possible. This approach will help you choose the most suitable option. The cost will depend on where you live appearance and age of the animal. The price range is from 100 to 600 rubles on average. There is usually no top bar. A cheap jungarik may have advanced age, injuries or chronic illnesses.

Photo of Djungarian hamsters

Video

Instruction

Many hamster owners make a big mistake when they keep several animals in the same room. Cohabitation for hamsters is permanent, as laid down by nature. If you want your pet to be happy, keep him alone.

There is another rule for keeping a hamster - it is a spacious dwelling. Movement is the key to your pet's health. Djungarian hamsters need a wheel. If your pet constantly sits without moving, sooner or later he will get sick, most often the cause of this is obesity. In nature, they run several kilometers at night, trying to find food for themselves.

If the cage is too big for some reason, then a special walking ball for hamsters can help you out. In it, your pet can safely walk on the floor, so he will not get lost or hurt. Remember that the time of one walk should not be more than thirty minutes. After that, the hamster should be given a drink and a bite to give a well-deserved rest.

In addition to the wheel, a special house, a drinking bowl and a feeder should be installed in the cage. It is necessary to give the hamster material for building a nest, for example, napkins without a pattern. Cotton wool and different rags cannot be used, your pet's paws may get tangled in them.

It is undesirable to use sawdust or hay as a cage filler, it is better to purchase a special granular one, it is safe, and you will get rid of unwanted odor. From a branch of a fruit tree, such as a cherry, you need to make a special stick so that the hamster can grind down its teeth. Do not forget to boil and dry the stick thoroughly for disinfection.

Feeding a hamster is easiest with special mixtures, which is especially convenient for beginner jungar lovers. Another important element diet are fresh vegetables and fruits. At the same time, you need to know that cabbage, onions, garlic and citrus fruits should not be given to hamsters. In addition to carbohydrates and fiber, your jungarik also needs protein. He can get it from boiled meat, and even better - from a chicken. Give a small piece of this protein treat to your pet 2-3 times a week.

If you give your hamster perishable food, do not leave food leftovers in the feeder, otherwise the dwarf may get poisoned. Do not forget to clean the hamster cage regularly, the health of your pet depends on the quality of hygiene.

Wanting to buy a pet, many are looking at hamsters. They are funny and mobile, moreover, they do not require any special conditions. But potential owners of these animals are scared off by stories that they “spoil” the air in the apartment (although there are several breeds that are harmless in this regard). We will talk about one of these in this review, having looked at what is interesting about the Dzungarian hamster, what is the care and maintenance of such a rodent.

general information

When you first see a dzhungarik, it can be mistaken for a large eared mouse. These medium-sized animals grow up to 9-10 cm in length, while their weight does not exceed 65 g (the lower bar is 35 g). The owners are touched by small ears and a sharp muzzle. If you take a closer look, it turns out that the front paws look like human hands, and the gripping style copies ours. The tubercles of the fingers are densely covered with hairs.

The family trait is a narrow black stripe along the ridge. The belly is light in color, while the background of the back is gray or buffy. Paws and ears are white.

In nature, these hamsters live in the semi-deserts and steppes of Khakassia, Southwestern Siberia and Kazakhstan. Their domesticated counterparts inherited an active nature and a tendency to stay awake at night.

Important! You should not succumb to the seller's arguments like "I'll give this up for next to nothing." Most likely, such a hamster is seriously ill and will not last long.

But they also have differences, the main of them is the color.

If you look at the photos that show Djungarian hamsters, you can select several color options:

• Standard. Gray-brownish background combined with a white belly.
• Pearl. Matte white with gray accents.
• Sapphire. The main gray color has a bluish tint, which looks spectacular with a white belly.
• Red (aka tangerine). The hair is reddish, aged in a creamy tone.

They are very clean, no smells come from the cage, and the manner of falling asleep in your arms will bribe anyone. Let's see how long nimble Djungarian hamsters live when kept at home.

On average, this is 2-3 years, 4-year-old old people are already a rarity. This is due to the active disposition and biological “aces of the rodent: 1 year of his life, by our standards, is similar to 25 years.

What to look for when buying

When buying a fluffy for the first time, do not rush to take the first one that comes across. Carefully consider all applicants, consult with the seller. If the implementer is laconic, then pay attention to the following points:

• Age. It is best to take an individual 3-7 weeks old. Very young hamsters (up to 3 weeks old) are not yet trained to feed on their own. With older ones (older than 3 months), problems may arise, they are more difficult to tame, in addition, the female may already be pregnant.

• Feel the fur, it should be dry. Assess the condition of the eyes - if they are clean, without sours and cloudiness, then you can take it.
• Another argument in favor of the purchase will be a clean nose without traces of discharge.
• In healthy individuals, the fur shines, there are no bald patches and lumps on it. This applies to scars and scars.
• Don't hesitate to take a look anus. The cleanliness of this channel and the fur around it indicate that the stomach is in order. But fresh or dried traces of diarrhea do not bode well.
• Look at the behavior of the animal. Apathy is most often the result of illness or poor living conditions.

Even before going to the market, it is better to decide who you would like to have - a male or a hamster who will regularly give birth. Already when choosing, you need to know how easy it is to determine the sex of a Djungarian hamster you like.

Important! Finding an escaped rodent is not easy, even in a odnushka. Listen: a few minutes after the “escape”, he will begin to rustle with the found paper. If you turn off the light for a while, then the animal will leave the shelter almost immediately - it's time for capture.

It's pretty easy: boys have more extended lower abdomen. Taking the animal in your hands, catch a moment of calm and look at the genitals. In males, there is about 0.5-1 cm between them and the anus, and a gland similar to the navel is visible in the center of the belly.

In females, it is almost impossible to make out, besides, papillae run in two rows from the chest to the lower abdomen.

How many individuals are best kept in one cage

In one hamster "apartment" it is desirable to settle the same pet. Harmless-looking dzhungars are territorial animals; they will not tolerate the presence of an opponent in their home. If you populate two, then they will almost immediately begin to fight, as a result of which scars will appear, not to mention permanent stress.

Did you know? Climbing hamsters living in the South American forests are not at all like the "nimble" we are used to. They have a long tail, and they spend most of their lives in trees.

At the same time, do not forget that leaving the hamster alone for a long time, you risk bringing the crumbs to complete savagery - he simply will not accept an inattentive owner.
No less important is the issue of the family - when the hamster grows up, a female will have to be temporarily placed with him, otherwise he will fall into a blues. Although it is not worth delaying such cohabitation.

Selection and arrangement of housing

The cage will have to be prepared before going to the pet store. It should be spacious enough, made of durable and safe material.

Did you know? Hamsters see the world in black and white. Their eyes are not very well developed, but this is compensated by excellent hearing and smell.

The minimum dimensions are 50x30 cm, but experienced owners try to take it with a margin, setting cages 70x50 in size. Most often, they buy structures with a solid plastic pallet and a high superstructure in the form of a cage. Pay attention to the spacing between the rods: 1 cm will be enough for the rodent not to escape.
There are also material requirements. Plastic must be solid, without burrs and cracks. Evaluate the rigidity of the bars - it should be at the level. There are products with painted cages, but they are not very practical: the hamster will quickly gnaw on paint that is harmful to him. Not uncommon and bunk designs. There is expanse for a rodent, only if the spans are at least 20-25 cm.

Important! Deciding to get by with an aquarium, keep in mind that its volume must be at least 40 liters.

In addition to the usual and simple cells pet stores offer other "apartments". These are whole palaces from many sections, and aquariums, and blocks of plexiglass. They are also suitable for a nimble pet, but they also have a couple of disadvantages: not very thoughtful ventilation and difficulty in cleaning.
Having chosen a cell, they are taken for its situation. Mandatory will be such "household items":

• feeder. An ordinary plate will not work here - the animal will not only eat, but will spread dirt around. There are no problems with the choice, you can buy products of different diameters. It is better to start by installing a 3-4 cm feeder, and as it grows, change it to a larger one.
• Drinker. It is enough to buy a nipple, with a volume of 50 ml, attach it to the bars at a convenient height.
• House. It can be a wooden or plastic product without sharp corners, in which a hamster can easily fit.
• Toilet. If you plan to train your baby, then you won’t do without a tray. Adults are more indifferent to him.
• Wheel. An indispensable attribute of any cell. For such animals, an attraction with a diameter of 14-16 cm and a not too large distance between the crossbars is suitable so that the paws do not fall through.

Did you know? The fear of heights is unknown to the hamster: he simply does not feel it. Therefore, each "escape" is fraught with considerable danger - climbing onto the sofa, the fugitive can easily be injured.

• Equipped play area. Tubular manholes are used for it; a whole labyrinth can be built from several sections and transitions. Ladders and swings will also be a plus.

You can also put a bath filled with fine sand - the pet will clean the fur. But bathing him in water is highly undesirable.

Where to put the cage

Prepared housing is placed in a slightly shaded corner, where the animal will not be constantly bothered by direct sunlight. No drafts and windows - even minor blows are dangerous for a small animal.

Important! When choosing a wheel, inspect it, paying attention to the opening between the wheel itself and the stand. A small distance is fraught with the risk of injury - a foot can get there. A wheel with a grate mount will be safer.

Try to protect the hamster from all sorts of noise: prolonged vibrations and the sounds of constantly working equipment can drive him into stress, especially since he is not very active during the day or sleeps at all.

A low (65-70 cm) table is suitable as a platform. So it will be easier to observe the animal, and care is facilitated. Too low landing makes this process difficult, besides, the pet runs the risk of becoming a target for a cat or.
The temperature is also important. From +14°С to +25°С will be enough, so place the cage away from the battery or heater. Note that short cold snaps are not terrible, but it’s better not to bring it to this - a pet can easily catch a cold or fall into apathy (but not hibernation).

What do dzhungars eat

The main question remains, what to feed the Djungarian hamster living at home.

The basis of the diet is feed pellets or grain mixtures with the presence of ground corn. The following products are added to them:

• Pumpkin, carrot, beetroot.
• Dried fruits in the form of dried apricots, raisins or dried apples.
• From the age of two months, you can give pieces of fresh apples, currants and grapes. They try to feed less apricot and pear.
• Greenery. Hamsters are happy to "crunch" dill, parsley, lettuce. You can also give dandelions with clover (if they are not collected near the road).
• Protein food in the form of boiled eggs, chicken breast without spices and 2% cottage cheese are given no more than 2-3 days later, so as not to provoke obesity.
• Pumpkin and sunflower seeds are also a treat (maximum 2 times a week).

Diet - two meals a day, no more than 2.5 tablespoons. Homka will not get hungry, but will calmly stretch out on supplies hidden behind his cheeks.

The common principle “what we eat, he will eat” is out of place here. Onions, cabbage, potatoes, sorrel, fried and salty dishes are contraindicated. This also applies to bread, milk, cheese. Citrus and exotic (persimmon, kiwi, avocado) fruits are also taboo.

Did you know? Zoologists have discovered that hamsters are able to remember their relatives and neighbors.

In the summer, some try to feed peach kernels, plums, or apricots. This is strictly prohibited - they are toxic and dangerous. You will also need to explain to the children (and some adult guests) that you should not give your pet pieces of candy or chocolate.

Care and hygiene

Care comes down to simple but regular work - changing the water, laying food portions, cleaning the cage, replacing the filler and changing the litter. The water is changed daily, the feeders are filled twice a day. It's good to have a spare set - new portions can be delivered faster, without lengthy washing in the cage.

Cleaning is carried out 1-2 times a week. At the same time, the already “used” filler is not completely removed, but a small part is left. So the animal will quickly get used to clean housing.

Important! Cat litters are useless for such purposes. Their clay components give rodents a lot of discomfort.

At the time of changing the bedding (once every 3-4 days), the hamster is moved to a box or other covered temporary hut. Small sawdust with a layer of 3 cm is suitable as a coating (less often - sand). But cotton wool or newsprint, as well as cardboard, are not suitable for such purposes.
Once a month, a major cleaning is done. The pallet is washed with a solution based on laundry soap, the bars should also be cleaned. At the same time, try not to hook the house itself - the “nest” is of great importance for the pet.

Did you know? Until the middle of the 20th century, hamsters were the object of fur trade. Particularly active procurement campaigns were carried out in the USSR, the Czech Republic and Germany.

Diseases: prevention and treatment

Funny rodents can get sick too. Risk factors most often are both direct violations of the conditions of detention, and stress caused by frequent cell movements, disruption of the daily routine, or the appearance of a competitor.

Prevention means:

• competent and regular nutrition;
• timely cleaning;
• regular bedding change;
• creation of all conditions for activity.

But it happens that the disease has already begun, you need to take urgent measures. The easiest way to deal with a runny nose or flu.
Even a peppy hamster can start to sneeze. In this case, the very possibility of a draft is excluded and a warm bedding is laid. The water in the drinker also changes to warm.

Often annoying and diarrhea. Diarrhea is treated with light fasting or switching to lighter foods. If it does not stop for 2-3 days, then the help of a veterinarian is needed.

Suppurations of the eyes are easily recognized by swollen eyelids, the appearance of pustules, while they are moistened and become sticky. This means that the infection has already been introduced. The actions of the owner in such cases:

• the animal is isolated;
• the cell is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected;
• eyes are instilled with "Albucid" (four times a day, 1-2 drops);
• full transition to grain feed with small additions of chicken.

If conjunctivitis was detected immediately, treatment will take 5-6 days.

The jungars have one not too pleasant feature - a predisposition to diabetes. It is very easy to notice the symptoms: thirst appears, appetite increases against the background of weight loss, and the smell of urine becomes distinct and pungent.

Such manifestations are a signal to visit a veterinarian, you will not be able to cope on your own (the maximum is to do a test for diabetes, blanks are sold in pharmacies). Moreover, similar features are observed in kidney disease.

Important! Be sure to put a few smooth twigs in the cage fruit trees, about them the animal will sharpen its teeth. Otherwise, they will grow and it is possible that over time they will pierce the lip or cheek.

Unpleasant baldness is the result beriberi arising from the lack of green mass. Having prepared enough parsley or lettuce, you will solve this problem almost immediately.
A little more difficult with injuries. bites immediately disinfected and powdered with antibiotics.

fractures but more dangerous - an active pet has fragile bones and ligaments that are impossible to fix. Therefore, the cage for the nimble Djungarian hamster becomes empty for the period of rehabilitation - the wheel and all other entertainments are removed. 10-14 days provide complete rest, give calcium-rich food.

Breeding offspring at home

These animals breed well in captivity. For a year, a female can “give out” 2-4 litters with 3-9 cubs (although occasionally there are broods of 10-11 babies).

Puberty occurs at the age of 5-6 weeks, but mating is postponed until the age of five months (by this time the body is already formed and strong).
Pregnancy takes 16-19 (rarely - 20) days. After roughly calculating the time, in 3-4 days the male is removed from the cage, the house and the wheel are removed. Include more protein in your diet. The cage is kept clean.

For a couple of days "before" throw "building materials" in the form of twigs - the female is actively nesting. On the day of birth, it is better to cover the cage with a blanket so as not to cause unnecessary stress to the hamster.

Did you know? Hamsters have made a significant contribution to science - they are great for research. Many of their organs practically copy the systems of the human body.

The first 10 days do not touch the offspring at all, by this time they begin to see and hear. At the age of 23-25 ​​days they are weaned from their mother. It is impossible to do this earlier - for the first three weeks of life, they feed on her milk.
Now you know how to recognize a dzhungarik, what you need to care for him. We hope that the fluffy miracle will delight the whole family with its moving toys. More positivity every day!

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Jungariki are small funny little animals that can cheer up any person. If you decide to get a miniature rodent, then the Djungarian hamster is perfect for you. This animal gets along well with children, is not very picky in terms of nutrition and does not require excessive attention. But in order for the animal to take root well in your home, you need to know how to properly care for a hamster.

Description of the breed

The Djungarian dwarf hamster is a tiny rodent that is often bought for children as a pet. But this animal can also be found in the wild, and specifically in the Asian steppes and deserts. There is a huge plain of Dzungaria, after which its little inhabitant was named.

Appearance

Are you wondering what this jungarik looks like? This is a dwarf rodent with a rounded body, the size of which does not exceed 10 cm along with the tail (on average, 6-8 cm). By the way, the tail is quite small. Only the Roborovsky hamster has smaller sizes.

The djungarian hamster is characterized by a short, very thick coat. It helps to keep warm, which is especially important in the harsh northern climate, where the animals were domesticated. The colors of Djungarian hamsters may vary. Usually these babies have a gray-brown back, along which a dark stripe runs along the body, and a lighter belly. But there are also rare colors:

1. Sapphire. The coat is gray with a bluish tint, and on the belly is white.
2. Pearl. Almost the entire coat is white, gray islands come across. White jungars are quite rare.
3. Mandarin. Light brown color with a hint of red.

Animals in winter period change their color. For 1.5 months, their fur is completely renewed, they acquire a lighter shade. White Djungarian hamster - pictured below.

reproduction

Small rodents reach puberty extremely early. At 1-1.5 months they are already considered sexually mature. During this period, it is better not to have pets, as early pregnancy the female may not survive (will die in childbirth). The recommended age for breeding is 6 months.

In the wild, there is a periodicity of reproduction: jungars breed in the warm season. In a cage, the change of seasons is not so noticeable, therefore, at home, jungars are able to breed all year round. Pregnancy lasts 3 weeks ± 2 days, hamsters are born naked, with closed eyes in the amount of 1-11 pieces. An interesting fact is that already a day after giving birth, the female is ready for a new fertilization!

Character features

It is noticed that representatives of this breed quickly adapt to a new home. They are inquisitive and sociable, so they are easier to tame. However, in the first days in the house, a pet can arrange a real concert with screams and crying. Don't worry, the animal just needs a little getting used to. Provide peace for a Djungarian hamster for a few days - and he will come to his senses.

Lifespan

The disadvantage of this breed is the short life path of animals. On average, life expectancy is 2.5-3 years, with very good care, the animal can live up to 4 years. But in order to prolong the age of your pet, it is necessary that he was initially healthy. You also need to know how to care for the Djungarian hamster so that he lives as long as possible.

Choosing a hamster-jungarik

You decide to buy a hamster, you come to the pet store, and there are dozens of them. The choice is very difficult to make. What should you pay attention to when choosing an animal? Here are some helpful tips:

And one more thing: if you want an animal of a certain color, it is better to buy it in the summer. So, a white jungarik bought in winter can turn brown by summer.

What do djungarian hamsters need?

Proper care of the Djungarian hamster is not difficult at all. You just need to know what your pet needs.

1. Cozy house. A large, bright and comfortable apartment is a dream not only of people, but also of hamsters. Representatives of the Dzungarian breed require much more space than others, despite its diminutiveness. The fact is that the animals are very mobile.
2. Wheel and other attractions. Toys are essential to keep your pet entertained and in shape. And if the size of the cage does not allow you to arrange an amusement park there, put at least a wheel - after all, this is not just a toy, but a simulator.
3. Mini house inside a cage. It serves as a resting place for the home and a food warehouse.
4. Cutlery. There must be a hanging drinking bowl, but you can’t put a saucer with water, the animal will definitely turn it over. The food bowl should be low and stable.
5. Food and fresh water.
6. Cleanliness in the cage.

As you can see, the jungarik does not have so much and is needed for complete happiness. In addition to the necessary things and food, the fluffy needs communication. Visit your pet several times a day, and in the evening you can even play with him (of course, after the hamster is tamed).

All little jungars love good care and respect. cell purity, proper nutrition and the love of the owners will provide the pet with a comfortable existence and prolong its short life. Keeping and caring for Djungarian hamsters can be entrusted to children school age. This will instill in them responsibility, purposefulness and the ability to love. But it is better for kids to communicate and feed the pet in the presence of their parents.

Cell interior

To understand how to care for a djungarian hamster, you need to start with his basic needs. First you need to equip the pet apartment. It is better to choose a two-story cage for him, but tiers can be made independently. With great responsibility approach the choice of filler. You can use wood, but sawdust is better. The main thing is that they are not very small, since small dzhungars can easily sting their paws. A large layer of bedding is needed, as hamsters love to dig into it. The optimal height is 4 cm.

In addition to the cage itself and the house, other items are needed for storing supplies. Here is a detailed list:

• a drinking bowl and a plate for food;
• wheel for gymnastics;
• twigs for grinding teeth or a special stone;
• pipes and tunnels.

Another attribute of the cell is a sand bath. It is needed in order for the jungarik to clean the fur in it. The bath can be brought into the cage 2-3 times a week or left there if the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe hamster's apartment allows. The sand in the bath should be fine and dry.

Some owners hang a mirror in the cage so that the pet can admire itself. It is especially amusing to watch how a homa reacts to a mirror when seeing this object for the first time!

If you decide to get a Djungarian hamster at home, you will sometimes have to play with him outside the cage. To do this, you can equip a special playroom with labyrinths for your pet.

Caring for cleanliness

Caring for dzhungars is to maintain cleanliness in the hamster's home. Pro Djungarian hamsters it is known that they are extremely scrupulous and clean: if the cage has not been cleaned for a long time, a funny animal can even “shout” at its owners! Therefore, wind on your mustache how to care for jungars, and do not forget about your duties.

The pet's cage will need to be cleaned frequently. Every morning, take out and throw away leftover vegetables, feces, and wet litter. Also, once a week, completely replace the bedding with fresh one. The bottle should be cleaned periodically with a brush, and the bowl should be washed.

Caring for a Djungarian hamster also involves taking care of his coat. Usually, the homa takes care of his own toilet, but if the pet is very dirty, you will have to give him a bath day. But remember that Djungarian hamsters are prone to colds, so the animal will have to be kept warm until it dries completely!

Clipping of claws

The teeth of little jungars grow all their lives, and they successfully grind them down on the bars of the cage, a grindstone or special twigs. And what about the nails? Do they need to be trimmed at all?

Some animals do their own manicure, they just gnaw their overgrown claws. But some pets do not gnaw their nails, they gradually grow back and begin to interfere with movements. If your fluffy has become lazy, reluctantly runs around the house, check if overgrown nails suddenly hurt him when moving? Keeping Djungarian hamsters at home also requires cutting nails, but this procedure must be done correctly so as not to injure the paw.

Important! A rodent nail contains a stratum corneum, inside which living tissues are located. If you touch them, the pet will bleed, it will be very painful for him!

Trim the nails of the animal with a nail cutter, which can be purchased at a pet store. In extreme cases, nail scissors with thin rounded blades are suitable. How to make a jungaric manicure? Use the following guidelines.

1. Place the homa on the palm of your hand with the muzzle up.
2. Hold his left foot with your index and middle fingers.
3. Examine the nail in the light, so you will understand where to cut off. Just in case, leave a little nail, this will protect the animal from injury.
4. Cut off the claw.
5. Repeat the manipulations with the left leg, holding it with the little finger and ring finger.
6. Turn the pet over on its stomach and cut the claws on the right paws.

Here is a photo of a dzhungarik whose claws are cut.

Not all owners are so cold-blooded to cut the claws of the dzhungarik on their own, because he will break out and, possibly, scream in fear. If you are not sure that you can handle it, it is better not to take it, but contact your veterinarian.

Care and Nutrition

The diet of the Jungarik is slightly different from all other breeds of hamsters. The fact is that these hamsters sometimes get sick diabetes. Therefore, they should be given dried fruits, candied fruits, berries and fresh fruits in limited quantities. The same restrictions apply to sweet pumpkin. This does not mean that these products are prohibited, just do not give them to your pet daily. Delicious sweets can be used as a reward for the animal during taming, training, or after washing and trimming its claws.

Otherwise, the diet of the Dzhungari is the same as that of other breeds. Animals can:

• protein: boiled chicken, eggs and beef, low-fat cottage cheese;
• any cereals, herbs, seeds;
• nuts in small quantities;
• vegetables (with the exception of garlic and onions).

The list of harmful for Djungarian hamsters includes:

1. Seasoned food from the hosts' table;
2. Flour: pastries, pasta, confectionery.
3. Fatty: sausages, fatty meats and dairy products.
4. Vegetables: onion, garlic, white cabbage.
5. Fruit bones.

Feeding and caring for a hamster are inseparable concepts. It is important to monitor the amount of fat in the fluffy body, as lipids are poorly absorbed. Also, attention should be paid to the freshness of food. A core of cucumber and other vegetables and fruits should not lie in a cage for more than a day.

Games and entertainment

Sometimes the homa gets tired of running in the wheel, he wants to have live communication with the owner. Such moments come after the animal has already been accustomed to hands. Therefore, sometimes you have to play with the animal. Roll it on your shoulder, build labyrinths and fortresses, swing it on miniature swings - and don't forget to give treats.

Diseases

Alas, representatives of the Dzungarian breed sometimes get sick. At birth, many hamsters suffer from oxygen starvation, so you need to know how to care for newborn babies. Injuries (fractures, dislocations, bruises, etc.) also occur, usually when the animal falls from a great height.

As you can see, many diseases of Djungarian hamsters can be avoided by following the principles of proper nutrition and taking care of cleanliness in the home. But if your furry miracle still picked up some kind of infection, you should immediately consult a veterinarian.

Djungarian hamsters are cute creatures with an unpredictable character. For the animal to be healthy, you need to take good care of it. Particular attention should be paid to the nutrition and sanitary condition of his home. If you properly care for your pet, he will rarely get sick and will gladly ask to be held in your arms!

The Djungarian hamster is a very kind and sociable rodent. Usually this fluffy animal is bred for children. Dzhungarik quickly gets used to the person and instantly becomes tame. But despite small size The hamster must be carefully looked after and monitored for its health. What is needed for care? You will learn this and much more in our article.

General information about the Djungarian hamster

Djungarian hamsters have the following characteristic features:

• the length of an adult is usually no more than 10 cm, and the weight is about 35-40 grams;
• the tail is very short, it is almost invisible under the coat;
• a dark stripe runs along the entire surface of the back (it is this feature that distinguishes the dzungaria from other hamsters);
• hamsters of this breed have a gray or dark gray shade of wool;
• in nature they can be found in the steppes of Western and Eastern Siberia, Kazakhstan, as well as Mongolia;
• the eyes are round and jet black;
• the dzhungarik hamster is a twilight animal, so it will sleep during the daytime, and becomes active closer to the night;
• the life span of such a hamster is no more than 2-3 years, subject to proper and timely care.

hamsters are cute, unpretentious and take up little space in the apartment

How to choose a hamster in a pet store?

If you want to buy a Djungarian hamster, but don’t know what criteria to choose it for, then the following tips can help you:

• pay attention to age, it is best to buy a 1-month-old or 2-month-old cub, since it is the babies who quickly become tame and easily get used to a new home and owner;
• ask the seller the gender of the hamster, because males are considered friendlier, so you should pay attention to them (females are very aggressive, and especially during molting or pregnancy);
• take a closer look at the activity of one or another hamster, choose the most nimble, cheerful and curious animal;
• take an interest in the state of health of the jungar that you liked the most, namely, examine his eyes (they should be shiny), the coat cannot be with bald spots and bald patches, the nose is dry, without any discharge;
• Make sure you know about your vaccinations.

Proper nutrition for hamsters good health, cheerfulness and beautiful fur

Necessary for care

To care for a Djungarian hamster, you will need the following accessories:

Each owner decides for himself what kind of housing to buy for a hamster-jungarik. Usually for hamsters buy a cage or an aquarium. Let's find out more about them.

Cell

In order to choose a comfortable and high-quality cage for your pet, you must adhere to the following rules:

• do not forget that hamsters move quite a lot, so the cage must be spacious and free to move the rodent;
• for one animal, a cage of 40x40 cm will be enough, and if 2, 3 or more animals live, then it is necessary to choose a more spacious “room”;
• it is not recommended to place a dzungarian in a cage with plastic or wooden rods that a hamster can easily gnaw through, the best option in this case there will be a metal cage;
• it is allowed to purchase a dwelling with 2 or more floors, in such a cage it will be interesting for a hamster to run and play;
• pay attention to the distance between the rods, it should not be more than 5-10 mm, since the dzhungars are quite dexterous animals, they can easily get out through wide twigs;
• make sure that the door fits snugly and does not have any gaps;
• there must be a plastic tray at the base of the cage, on which you will pour bedding and put various accessories.

Now let's decide on the location. It is strictly forbidden to place the cage in places where:

• direct sunlight passes;
• there are batteries and heaters;
• cost of household appliances;
• there are noisy devices such as a TV, computer, radio, music center, etc.;
• strong draft.

cell

Aquarium

It is believed that sometimes an aquarium is much more convenient to use than a cage. Despite the fact that the bars of the cage are made of metal, they are still covered with enamel from the outside, which the hamster will gnaw over time. Moreover, the bare steel part gradually begins to rust over time. When choosing an aquarium, the following criteria must be considered:

• the aquarium should be much larger than the cage, because air circulation in such an enclosed space is much worse;
• the minimum dimensions of the aquarium for one hamster are 40x100 cm;
• on top you need to put a special mesh cover;
• everything you need should be installed at the bottom of the aquarium: a ladder, a wheel, a feeder, a drinker, etc.

small house

As mentioned above, hamsters mostly sleep during the day, so for this they need a small house that you install in a cage or aquarium. Usually such houses are made of wood or plastic, have a round hole in the middle through which the animal gets inside. The bedding in such a house can be sawdust, a soft flannel cloth or hay.

feeder

For a djungarian hamster, you will need 2 separate feeders at once: for natural food and for dry food. The food container should be made of ceramic or stainless steel so that the animal cannot knock it over and also gnaw it. Floor feeders are usually placed in the aquarium, since they cannot be fixed to the wall. For cages, hanging bowls are usually chosen, which are attached to rods with special hooks.

drinker

For the cage, in most cases, they get a drip-type drinker, which is quite simply attached to the rods, but with an aquarium everything is much more difficult. For an aquarium, you can purchase a heavy ceramic bowl, and its depth must be at least 5 cm so that the hamster cannot knock it over. There is also a drinker with suction cups that can be attached to the wall of the aquarium.

drinker

Filler

As a filler, special sawdust is used, which softens the lower part of the cage or aquarium and makes the movement of the jungaria more comfortable. Also, hamsters are very fond of burrowing into sawdust or building small minks out of them.

Wheel

Djungarian hamsters are very active animals. It is extremely necessary to purchase a special running wheel on which your pet will do “exercises”. When choosing a wheel, pay attention to its diameter. Usually it is at least 18 cm. The track along which the animal will run must be rubberized, which is important for ease of use.

wheel

mineral stone

Mineral stone is necessary for grinding teeth, as well as obtaining important trace elements and vitamins. Usually such a stone is attached using a special clothespin that comes with the kit. Among useful substances, which are part of the mineral stone, there are calcium, zinc, iodine, cobalt and much more.

Tunnel and stairs

In order for your pet not to be bored, install a small ladder and a tunnel in a cage or aquarium, along which the hamster will be happy to climb. These accessories are usually made of durable plastic, which will be quite difficult to gnaw.

Bath with sand

Djungarian hamsters love to wallow in mineral or quartz sand. To do this, install a small container in his home, in which the hamster will “bathe”. This tub is excellent. alternative water procedures. After all, the owner does not need to think about how to properly bathe the animal in the water. In the sand tank, the rodent will do everything by itself, following its natural instincts.

• "Shustrik" - anthelmintic suspension for rodents;
• "BioVaks" - flea spray lotion for rodents;
• "Dirofen" - suspension for deworming rodents;
• "Bars" - spray from fleas, scabies mites and withers.

How to properly feed a pet?

In order for your pet to be healthy and cheerful, it is important to follow the rules of feeding it. The diet of a hamster, despite its tiny size, must be balanced, of high quality, and also contain many useful substances, vitamins and minerals.

Basic dietary requirements

The diet of the Djungarian hamster should include both natural products and dry granulated food. In no case do not overfeed your pet, 2-3 teaspoons of food a couple of times a day are enough for jungars, and do not forget to constantly give your pet fresh herbs, fruits, vegetables and water, which needs to be changed daily.

Granular feed

Dry food for hamsters and other rodents is usually available in the form of granules consisting of various herbs, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, dry vegetables, fruits and much more can be found in the mixture. The following foods for hamsters are considered the most popular and high-quality:

• "Little one";
• "Waka";
• "Zhorka";
• "Fiori";
• Criceti Grandmix;
• Vitacraft Menu.

Natural products

• cucumbers, tomatoes;
• green salad;
• carrots, zucchini;
• corn;
• apples, bananas;
• apricots, peaches;
• once a week it is allowed to give boiled chicken or turkey;
• boiled chicken egg;
• cherry, currant, cherry;
• beets, celery;
• clover, nettle;
• dandelion leaves;
• plantain leaves;
• parsley.

Prohibited Products

• onion garlic;
• citrus fruits of all kinds;
• watermelon, melon;
• acorns;
• cabbage of all kinds;
• mint;
• eggplant;
• sausages, sausages;
• spicy, salty, fried;
• pasta;
• bread;
• sweets;
• juices;
• potatoes and potato peels;
• rose hip;
• Red beans;
• muesli;
• Brazilian nut.

All of the above products are prohibited for Djungarian hamsters for the following reasons:

• may cause constipation;
• injure the cheek pouches;
• cause severe poisoning;
• have a high fat content;
• provoke an allergic reaction.

The Djungarian hamster is a pet that will not cause any unnecessary trouble to its owner. The most important thing is to monitor the nutrition of your pet, take care of it, and in case of any illness, immediately contact the veterinary clinic.