Hamsters are somewhat nocturnal so your hamster may sleep the day away and stay up all night. Never wake him up since this could stress him and he may bite you. Your hamster will be more alert during dawn and dusk so take advantage of the dusk alert time to play with him. Take him out of his cage and handle him. Let him climb on you. Give him ramps to scale and tunnels to run through. A hamster ball allows him to run around your home in safety. Supervise your hamster at all times when he is out of the cage. Protect him from other pets and children. Keep him safe from stairs or getting accidently kicked or stepped on. Provide toys and exercise apparatus for your hamster’s cage. Talk to your hamster and try hand feeding him. Be kind and enjoy your hamster. For more information, contact your Orleans County, NY veterinarian.

... Read more »

Are the temperatures outside starting to warm up? If the temperature outside is rising rapidly, make sure you keep the temperature inside at a nice steady setting to keep your Golden Agouti happy and healthy. For instance, if it gets too hot then your cavy may get sick. Most guinea pigs are unable to sweat. Instead, they regulate their own body temperatures.  They do not have sweat glands like people or other animals. If you’ve seen your guinea pig lying in his cage with his back legs sticking out then he may be trying to tell you he’s hot. One way you can help keep your guinea pig keep cool is to place one or two ice packs in the cage. Make sure the ice packs are wrapped with a thin towel so as not to cool your cavy too quickly. Ask your veterinarian Lansing, MI before trying this.

... Read more »