Feeling Like a Little Ham? | Hamsters as Pets

September 7, 2015

Feeling Like a Little Ham? | Hamsters as Pets

Well, everyone knows that hamsters aren’t actually pigs of any kind and so also not ham, but then where did the “ham” in “hamsters” come from?  Actually, it seems that indeed there is some correlation with a meaning of ham.  While the history is long and seems to have evolved across several nations and languages, there does seem to be some indication that the “ham” is supposed to signify their stuffing of food into their cheeks, and indeed hamsters can really ham food in!!  

Fun Fact #2 regarding the origin of the name “hamster”:

Their original name, and perhaps still their name in some languages was “Mr. Saddlebags”, ridiculous right!? Yup, they were named this as a result of the same thing, pumping food into their cheeks like someone would shove food into a saddle bag.

Are you still curious about the origin of the name hamster? Check out more details here!

All silliness aside, these little rodents are probably the most popular house pet out of all of the possible little creatures people have as pets.

Why are hamsters so popular!?

Aside from the fact that they’re super cute and quirky, their popularity could be owed to the fact that they make great starter pets for small children.  They’re very easily domesticated and become accustomed to being held, although you do want to make sure an adult is present as it’s easy to drop these little guys or accidentally mishandle them.

Caring for your Hammy Little Friend

When caring for a hamster the rules are pretty basic, follow the below points and you should have a happy relationship with your hamster.

Food: dry food, like seeds and pellets which you can buy from the pet store.  You can also feed them other little snacks like alfalfa hay.

Cage & Bedding: you can use wood chips or other bedding that can be found at a pet store.  The cage needs to be big enough for the little guys to play and run around, but if you plan on taking your friend out to play often, then the cage doesn’t have to be too big.

Toys & Exercise: you want to make sure you have the infamous hamster wheel, as these little guys love to run! Also, little cozy habitats for them to hide away in and make nests would be an asset toward making your hamster very happy.  Also, don’t forget the chew sticks!

Well, we hope you have a wonderful time with your pet hamster and enjoy many hammy years!

Photo Credit: Brocoli lover is in the house! via photopin (license)