Discover the Chinese Dwarf Hamster: A Hard-to-Find Pet Well Worth the Hunt

If you’ve been researching dwarf hamsters for any length of time, then you’ve probably come across a mention of the Chinese dwarf hamster. And you may have overlooked considering this little guy as a pet when you read the description “rat-like” or “mouse-like.” If that’s the case, you’re doing yourself a great disservice because of the four species often collectively referred to as “dwarf hamsters,” this delightful pocket-sized pet is the most sociable with its human companions and By far the most interesting.

not really a dwarf

Although the Chinese hamster is often grouped with dwarf hamsters due to its similar size, scientifically speaking, it is not really a dwarf. Siberian, Campbell’s, and Roborovski’s dwarf hamsters belong to the genus Phodopus, while the Chinese hamster belongs to the genus Cricetulus. And the misunderstanding does not stop there.

This cute little guy is actually known by several names; Striped hamster, Chinese striped hamster, and sometimes dwarf striped hamster. Two of these names add even more to the confusion.

First, the name, dwarf striped hamster, is also used to refer to the winter white or Siberian Russian hamster (Phodopus sungorus). Second, there is debate as to whether the Chinese striped hamster is the same species as the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus). There are some scientists who propose that it is a separate, but closely related species (Cricetulus barabensis), or a subspecies, the Latin name being Cricetulus griseus barabensis. Some even suggest that it is the other way around; The Chinese hamster is a subspecies of the Chinese striped hamster. (Phew!)

It doesn’t matter. Let the taxonomists find out. Whatever you call him, he’s an interesting little guy, and a rare find…literally. Chinese hamsters are not easily bred in captivity and there are ownership restrictions in place in most of the United States. California, by way of example, requires you to obtain a permit.

too cute to be a rat

The Chinese hamster is one of six hamsters that make up the group known as “rat-like hamsters.” This is because their heads are longer and more pointy than those of other hamsters, similar to those of a rat. Their bodies are more slender and their fur shorter and more lustrous. Also, they have a longer tail, about an inch long and semi-prehensile; can be used to assist in climbing.

Like true dwarf hamsters, Chinese hamsters are diminutive, measuring just 4 inches long. Its natural color is agouti; individual hairs are “streaked” with light and dark colors. They have cream-colored bellies and a black stripe that runs the length of their spine.

There are two color variations: the dominant spot, which has a predominantly white fur with gray-brown spots scattered along the dorsal stripe, and the black-eyed white, an all-white hamster distinguished from an albino by its eyes are black. Both variations are rare because breeding two identical animals of either variety rarely produces viable offspring. Additionally, black-eyed white males are reported to be sterile.

Chinese hamsters are relatively long-lived. Some have been known to live up to four years, although the average life expectancy is two and a half to three years.

The dwarf hamster game solitaire

While true dwarf hamsters tend to be social with others of the same species, that is not the case for the Chinese hamster. In fact, although experienced breeders have some success keeping these animals in pairs or groups, it is not recommended for the novice trainer. Females are extremely aggressive and have been known to attack and sometimes kill other hamsters that encroach on their territory.

On the contrary, they are usually quite friendly with their human keepers and rarely bite. However, they can be a bit difficult to tame because they are extremely shy when young and a bit high-strung.

These tiny creatures are fast, agile, and expert climbers. They have the endearing behavior of clinging to their human partner’s finger with all four legs and sometimes their tails (much like an opossum would cling to a branch). They will not hesitate to jump from great heights, which can lead to serious injury or worse. When handling them, it’s best to ensure they’ll have a “safe landing” by minimizing the distance they’d fall if they suddenly jump out of reach. These characteristics make the Chinese hamster a very poor choice as a pet for anyone under the age of 12. Teenagers and young adults would find them completely attractive.

take care of your hamster

The requirements for caring for a Chinese hamster are very similar to those for any other hamster. They need a good quality commercially prepared hamster seed mix, augmented occasionally with greens, fruits and fresh greens (avoid onions and their relatives). A special treat of mealworms, crickets, or a small amount of boiled egg can also be given. Hay can be used to supply additional dietary fiber and has the added benefit of providing a nesting material for your pet. A constant supply of fresh water is an absolute necessity to promote good health and a friendly disposition.

Due to their streamlined bodies, little ones can easily fit through the bars of almost any cage. So wire cages are definitely not a good option. A 10 to 20 gallon aquarium with a tight fitting protective mesh is generally your best option. As with all hamsters, pine or cedar shavings should not be used as litter. Aspen shavings or granulated newspaper work well. Be sure to provide material with which your hamster can build a nest. Acceptable materials include hay and clean shredded paper or tissue paper that is free of chemicals or dyes.

Be sure to include a nesting box of some sort and a variety of hamster toys. Hamsters are very active creatures and they also need to gnaw to keep their teeth trimmed. An exercise wheel and several softwood chew toys are a must.

an extraordinary find

If you think a Chinese hamster is perfect for your home, the best thing to do to find one is to search for a professional breeder in your area. He or she may also be able to tell you about the laws governing the keeping of these wonderful critters in your geographic region. Although hard to come by, Chinese hamsters are certainly a fun and rare pet.