Winter White Hamster

• Active at night
• Ideal for children 10 & up
• Social within the same family
• High energy level
• Lives up to 3 years

The Winter White Hamster is about 4 inches long and is gray with a white belly, and a thick gray stripe running down its back and furry feet. This hamster earned its name because its coat turns almost completely white during winter (when the hours of daylight decrease). This hamster's tail is short-you'll hardly be able to see it.

With consistent handling, your Winter White Hamster can become relatively tame, making this species a friendly, confident and curious pet. They are an active species and like to run about-so be prepared to give them enough room to run even though they're small.

Things to remember

Lifting & handling
Handle your Winter White Hamster gently -- scoop her up in both hands and hold her with cupped hands so she'll feel safe and secure.

Special needs
Your hamster's front teeth never stop growing -- so she needs lots of healthy things to chew on like treat sticks and chews.

Exercise
Hamsters have tons of energy and need to run on a wheel in their habitat, or in an exercise ball daily.

Nutrition
Choose a fortified diet appropriate for hamsters.

Housing
Your hamster needs a well-ventilated home, large enough for a food dish and water bottle, a hiding area (if one isn't built in) and an exercise wheel. There should be plenty of room for all cage accessories, and for her to move around freely.

More information
Visit our Hamster guide to learn more about the traits and behaviors that make hamsters great pets, plus find care information and the products you'll need to keep them healthy and happy.

PetSmart offers several dwarf hamster species. Here's some information to help you make an educated decision about which dwarf hamster will best fit your family.

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