Caring for an injured Robo Dwarf

Question

I recently got a job at Petsmart, and someone recently brought back a Robo Dwarf hamster who got caught on a glue trap and the man ripped the poor little guy off. We brought it to the vet, and the Robo had surgery, and currently has fractures in all 4 legs. He's doing much better now and looks very healthy and happy. We can't sell him again, so we're looking to adopt him out. I'm first in line to get him if he pulls through the next few days and stays on this healthy track, and I was wondering what kind of cage would be good for this little guy. Also, if anyone could tell me some good tips for raising a robo dwarf since I know they are crazy and full of energy.

Thanks!

Answer 1

I have a robo too! I think the best cage is either a plastic storage bin or an aquarium tank. Try to get one with a floorspace of at least 12 x 24 [that's a 15 gallon tank]. Robos are really energetic and need as much floorspace as possible!

If you're unfamiliar with bin cages, they can be used 2 ways. One is to keep to lid on, but cut a hole in the lid and screen it with wire mesh. Another is to just leave the lid on. I find this to be fine, as long as the cage is at least 12 inches tall, and the cage has nothing that your robo can climb on to escape.

I kept my robo in a bin when I first got her, but I moved her to an aquarium so I can take pics :D

Yes, robos are very skittish. Mine isn't so shy though-- she likes to bite xD! So, when I handle her, I use thin cottom gloves. Tame him like how you would tame a normal hamster. Let him settle in his new cage for 3 days first, then you can try to hold him. Put a treat [like a sunflower seed] on your hand and slowly lower your hand into the cage. Your hammy might run away, but would slowly go to your hand for the treat. If he tries to bite, don't jerk your hand away because he will be scared. Instead, say "no" and gently blow on his face. Don't worry if you aren't able to tame him like other hamsters-- robos normally don't like this :[

Since you have a job at Petsmart, you probably are already familiar with the general stuff, but I'll remind you anyway :] Use either Aspen or Carefresh bedding. The cage must include a water bottle [I like Oasis-brand], a wheel [get on without rungs, like the Silent Spinner], and food. Avoid food with the preservative ethoxyquin. Stick to Vitakraft Menu or Hazel Hamster :D