AboutSheila Adby Expertise Syrian hamsters are my specialty, however, I have kept Campbells,Winter Whites and gerbils in the past. I can advise on most subjects associated with hamsters, including housing, bedding, feeding, handling, new borns and catching escapees. I have had some experience of various health problems with hamsters and can offer my opinion and advice on basic health issues, however I am not a qualified vet and therefore cannot recommend drugs etc. My website is www.thehamstersite.com
Experience I have been keeping hamsters and other small animals for more than 12 years. My favourites are Syrian hamsters and I foster litters and 'difficult' hamsters for a rescue centre. My job is to tame hamsters ready for re-homing, which is extremely rewarding. I also enjoy looking after new litters and raising the pups. I have co-written a book on hamsters with my local vet and have a website: www.thehamstersite.com
Publications Hamsters in Sickness and in Health - Sheila Adby and Dan O'Neill ISBN186163218-5 (Capall Bann Publishing)
Education/Credentials Educated to A Level standard in the UK.
I've just acquired a new male dwarf hamster yesterday. He seemed to be quite lively and surprisingly friendly, not showing any fear to any gentle handling process and seems to be very curious about his new environment.
However, there's something that worries me. I've set up a new water bottle, low enough for him to drink from it, and yet I haven't seen him drinking from it. I'm getting anxious about him being dehydrated, so I dip his veggies in some water. He seems to like his moistened veggies well. I've also set a water dish up, just in case. Is there anything I should do to encourage him to drink?
Answer Hi Marianna
I wouldn't worry about not seeing your hamster drinking. Hamsters generally don't drink that much, especially if they can get moisture from their food. They do need fresh water supply available in case they want it, however, the only time you really notice a hamster drinking is when they are sick (tumors, kidney problems etc). Remember that a drop of water for a dwarf hamster is the equivalent of a glass of water for us, so it isn't likely to be that obvious if he is drinking.
Providing he is eating normally, has a good varied diet of dry food (seeds, nuts etc) and also a small amount of fresh vegetables daily, then he should be fine. If you really are worried you could put a small amount of blackcurrant juice in the water as he will be attracted by the sweetness of this, but I think this is probably unnecessary.
