Poppy

We have had three hamsters - A Syrian named Speedy - Believe it our not our first hamster lived over 3 years!

A Robo - Named Buddy - Buddy lived 2 1/2 years.

Our current hamster - A Dalmation - Poppy - Happy and Healthy - 4 months old currently.

I think what contributed to the good health of our Syrian and Robo was they both were very well cared for. I am a maniac when it comes to clean and always straightened their cages every 2 days (replacing their bedding where they go potty, etc.) and doing a good cleaning once a week. Regularly change their water - actually our current hamster has two water bottles - yes, over-kill, I just like to know they have fresh water. Good diet - mixture of hamster food and fruits and vegetables. Though, I have always been a little concerned about the sugar in fruit, so I limit fruit to maybe every 3-4 days and give carrots every two days. Poppy LOVES carrots (actually all my hamsters have), just gobble them up. I find the baby carrots work best. I chop them up and put them in water bottle tops.

I had asked a question about vitamin supplements (I have never used them) and I guess I won't start now. I got the impression from most the experts here they aren't necessary as hamsters get all of what they need in a varied diet. And since I have had two previous hamsters live a good long life, I'm fairly confident, it's not necessary. I just wish hamsters had a little longer life expectancy. =(

Other things that I have found that have contributed to good health: Definitely, the all important hamster wheel and varied cage. Physical health and movement is important, exercise outside the cage in an exercise ball and playtime. I also think LOVING your hamster and spending time with them contributes to a happy hamster that meets or exceeds it's life expectancy. =)

We have had three hamsters, so we do have a lot experience with hamsters. However, one thing that has always bugged me is how long is it recommended to leave fresh vegetables or fruit in the cage?

Our current hamster Poppy loves carrots and will eat them up almost immediately. However, I gave her a grape (that I cut in little pieces) and she ate most of it, but I found a little left (I always use water bottle tops as feeding trays for fresh fruit and vegetables). So, it's not mixed with the regular food.

So, today when there was a little left, I took it out and Poppy seemed angry at me. LOL! She just got that look, like WHAT are you doing? But, it worried me to leave it in, I had put it in last night and I didn't want her digesting spoiled fruit.

How long do you leave uneaten fruit/vegetables in your hamster cages?

I appreciate your responses! =)

We have had three hamsters. Both my previous hamsters matured to life expectancy. But, I have to say every time we've lost a hamster it's been painful. My children have adored each one and received so much enjoyment from them.

We now have Poppy, who is such a sweet and social little girl. She loves playing and just seems to love people in general.

Our previous hamsters have always lived full lives (by hamster standards) and we never used supplements. I've been reading some testimonials that have have indicated that supplements can help increase a hamster's life span. I know there's no guarantees, but we adore Poppy so much and I'm considering this option

What are thoughts on supplements/vitamin? I would love to hear pros and cons,

All input is appreciated! =)