Table of Contents
Part I: The World of the Hamster.Chapter 1: What Is a Hamster?
A Misunderstood Family.
What Makes a Hamster a Rodent?
Types of Hamsters.
Chapter 2: Hamster History.
The Source.
Hamster Character.
A Revolutionary Discovery.
Hamsters in the Classroom.
Hamster-Friendly Times.
Chapter 3: Why Have a Hamster?
Why Do We Love Them?
Golden or Dwarf?
Wanted: Responsible Owners.
Part II: Caring for Your Hamster.
Chapter 4: Your Hamster’s Home.
Hamster Habitats.
The Special Needs of Dwarf Hamsters.
Where to Place Your Hamster’s Habitat.
How to Set Up Your Hamster’s Home.
Additional Supplies.
Toys to Make a Hamster Happy.
Chapter 5: Choosing Your Hamster.
Making Preparations.
Where to Get Your New Pet.
Choosing a Healthy Hamster.
Welcoming Your New Pet Home.
Chapter 6: Day-to-Day Care and Handling.
Household Upkeep.
Hamster Grooming.
Gentle Hamster Handling.
How to Tame Your New Companion.
Chapter 7: Feeding Your Hamster.
Nutritional Needs.
Safe and Nutritious Foods.
How to Feed a Hamster.
Chapter 8: Keeping Your Hamster Healthy.
Preventive Care.
Hamster Warning Signs.
Common Hamster Health Problems.
How to Handle Wet Tail.
Unexpected Pregnancy.
When It’s Time to Say Good-Bye.
Part III: Enjoying Your Hamster.
Chapter 9: Your Hamster’s Behavior.
Hamster Highlights.
Hamsters and Other Pets.
The Great Escape Artist.
Special Circumstances.
How to Find a Hiding Hamster.
Hamster Smarts.
Chapter 10: Having Fun with Your Hamster.
Fun with Toys.
Out and About.
Caution! Hamsters Roaming.
Sharing the Joy of Hamsters.
Appendix: Learning More About Your Hamster.
A Few Good Books.
Magazines.
On the Internet.
Index.
