Second time hamster mom saying hi!

[Druishkrys]

Hello! I found this forum lookin for information on hamsters, as it's been 13 years since my last hamster pet. I am in the process of adopting another one again and super excited! I would like a dwarf hamster, like the one I had before.

As I'm reading information, I've found that people don't use the hamster balls anymore because it's not good for them? What should I use while I'm cleaning their cages? I have a giant plastic bin I can use to put the hamster in while I'm cleaning, but then I'm wondering how high can they jump? The bin is about 12 1/2" tall. Will this be a good place for him/her with toys and treats for about 10-15 minutes?

[Otaku]

You would probably put a nice little hide in the box for the hamster, which could serve as a leg-up out of the box, so it may be too shallow.
I have noticed that some people use their bathtub as a playpen, so this could be an idea. Make sure it's empty, dry, and that the plug is in, then place down a blanket or towel and some hides.

Hamster husbandry has changed a lot since my last hamster too so please enjoy the forum and take the time to read about the changes. You'll find that weekly cleans are a thing of the past (though spot cleans remain).
Welcome to the forum!

[Druishkrys]

Thank you! I bought another cage to connect together and figure I'd just clean one at a time.

I took a hammie home today! Female chinese dwarf hamster. Shes wild! Lol runs and burrows and climbs all over. She had more energy than the others that were cuddled up together at the pet shop. She'll definitely like the super habitat that's coming in the mail soon. I named her Fidget, pics will be posted later on.

[Otaku]

Awww I love Chinese hamsters! They're absolutely adorable so I am eagerly awaiting photos of Fidget (awesome name by the way)! Also looking forward to seeing the super habitat, I have been so impressed by other members' setups.
Congratulations on bringing your new girl home! (^_^)

[Druishkrys]

I've been trying to get her to come out with enough light for a photo, she runs and hides now when it's to bright. Hopefully this will go away when the super habitat comes in and she settles in then can tame her. She has come up to the side to smell me about 5 times so far, wish I had some seeds to give her when she does. She runs on the wheel and plays with her log and wood chews at night, then I never see her during the day. I have to either keep the light very low or off in order for her to come out from her burrows.

[Otaku]

That's understandable, they're nocturnal and even if they were diurnal it must feel intimidated coming out in full light as a tiny Chinese hamster.
She sounds like a happy little girl, which is the most important thing. The super habitat sounds like she's in for some great adventures, but it also makes me think she'll be harder to see. haha. Time will tell!

[Druishkrys]

Finally got some decent pictures! I woke her up with some strawberries ��

Now let's see if I can figure out how to upload them...

[chloeeruth98]

Welcome again to the world of hamsters! Looking forward to hearing more about Fidget, and seeing some pictures of her!

[Engel]

Welcome! What size cage are you using? And to answer cleaning good ol' soap (washing up liquid) and water does the trick. I dilute some in a spray bottle, put some on some kitchen roll and wipe. Disinfectant is only used for illness, death or particularly dirty places like their toilet. Adult Chinese hams need 8"-10" wheel I believe (as adults). Can't wait to see pics of fidget. It's great that she's already coming up to you.

[flowerfairy]

I use 50 50 water and vi egar to clean my cages when they are having a deep clean, otherwise just water.

Lots of people use that pet friendly spray you can get in most pet shops.