ESSENTIALS                                                                                             EXTRAS
CAGE                                                                                                           WHEEL
BEDDING                                                                                                   TOYS
DISH                                                                                                            TREATS
WATER BOTTLE & HOLDER
FOOD
SALT LICK
VITAMINS
CHEW STICKS
     The dwarf hamster's small, chubby appearance makes it one of the most instantly
loved pet around.  They  tend to be active off and on through  the day.  They perform cute antics and feats of wonder in their homes and with the proper patience and care, they can be cuddled and loved.  Their average life span is 2-3 years.  Their gestation period is approximately  21 days with an average litter size of 4.  Dwarf hamsters can be kept  in a pair (m&f) or 2 females or 1 male or 1 female, we have found though that 2 males together will eventually fight and seriously injure one another.
THE CAGE  The cage should be large enough that the hamster will have enough room to eat and sleep and also to play.  WIRE CAGES are durable and easy to clean with good ventilation but urine can corrode the metal, litter can be kicked out and fingers can be mistaken for food when stuck through the wire.  GLASS OR PLASTIC CAGES WITH SCREEN COVERS keep shavings in and fingers out but do not have enough ventilation during hot weather, plus plastic scratches and is easily chewed.  It is a matter of choosing what will work best for you.  Dwarf hamsters are very susceptible to heat, make sure the cage is not placed in sunlight and that during hot weather that it has proper ventilation.
     NEVER use cedar bedding in the cage.  Cedar oil is very irritating to the respiratory system of most small animals.  The bedding should be changed at least once a week and the cage cleaned with bleach and water and then rinsed thoroughly.  NEVER use household cleaners.
THE DIET The diet should be well rounded, varied and fresh.  Pellet and premixed foods should always be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables, vitamins, treats, chew sticks and even insects.
FRESH CLEAN WATER AND FOOD SHOULD BE AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES.
HANDLING Remember that dwarf hamsters are fast moving and they have very poor eyesight.  When you wish to handle your pet, talk softly, move slowly and gently wake him/her. Be very careful not to squeeze him/her.
Always wash your hands before and after handling to remove any food smells and to reduce the risk of giving an illness to your pet or possibly catching something from your pet.  Exercise and chewing are very important for your pet, otherwise he/she can get either fat and lazy or his/her teeth might get to long.