Going Away

froggyalert · 08-04-2016, 03:42 AM

I'm having to leave my relatively new hamster alone for 4 days. I've had him for around 2 months but have already had to leave him with my boyfriend for two weeks. I am now going away for 3 nights but all usual hamster care helpers are with me!

I am intending to fill his bowl a bit more than usual and have got him a corn on the cob treat. He is generally very happy with his wheel and doesn't show much interest in treats so I don't worry that he'll eat it all in one go.

I also have a spare water bottle that I'll attach just in case the other leaks.

Is there anything else I can do to try and keep him entertained, he's never been left alone for more than 12 hours so I worry he'll think we've abandoned him.

Amber_x · 08-04-2016, 04:36 AM

I'm sure he'll be fine, one thing to consider is the things in his cage that he can chew, if I'm leaving a hamster at home for a few days I will try and remove things like chains and excessive amounts of plastic incase they decide to chew everything in sight! Other than that I think you have everything covered, try not to worry too much, they are independent and cope fine without attention for a couple of days.

souffle · 08-04-2016, 04:38 AM

4 days is a little too long to leave a hammy unchecked I'd say. Is there a neighbour or family member who might pop in a couple of times to check the water bottle and that everything is well and to feed him?
I think two nights is doable but anymore I'd try and get someone. Try looking for pet sitters in your area. We have one who comes in daily when we are away and sees to everyone. In our area it costs £6.50 a visit so worth it for peace of mind.
At least two bottles for sure are needed if you are away.

froggyalert · 08-04-2016, 06:10 AM

There is only one person I can ask and she is horribly unreliable. I will ask her but I'm more worried about the lack of contact than I am his food and water.

He has a hanging ball with treats and hay to pull out but he's never shown any interest, but he really likes having time out and cuddles etc.

peasypea · 08-04-2016, 01:32 PM

I would be so scared to leave for four days! I'd spend the whole time a nervous wreck. Two days was hard enough but mine were always fine. I make cardboard toys stuffed with food to be chewed and give them something to do. Can also hang them so they are harder to grab onto. There is a video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuPeyD6w-CI

As others have said I would consider paying a pet sitter to come in, round me its £10 a visit but you could get away with just one night in the middle of those four days if you are reluctant to pay. My main worry would be if something happened and hammy would be all alone