Do Roborovski Hamsters have a tendency to get fat?

Question

We bought a very tiny robo-hamster. We've had her for a couple of months and she's been a little ball of energy. Lately she looks like she's getting fatter - she looks like she has a humback and she is constantly sticking her head underneath the bedding doing something - possibly eating. When she sits on her wheel she tries to run but doesn't for long. She puts her hands together and it almost looks like she's dozing off or praying. Is she simply overweight or is this another health problem?

Also, how much should we feed her?

Answer 1

Because Robos are active and social creatures, keeping just one tends to lead to lethargy and obesity. It is very near a necessity for Robos to be in pairs or groups because of that reason.

If your Robo is still young, I would advise that you try getting her a cagemate. I have introduced Robos many times, and I've been pretty successful nearly every time. Because they are so social by nature, they usually welcome a cagemate with little fuss. If that's not something you can do, my next recommendation is to encourage activity. Take her out of the cage for about a half hour every night. Provide a lot of toys and interaction. Try putting her in a run-about ball. You are providing the social aspect for her instead of a cagemate.

A dwarf hamster should only be getting a teaspoon of food each night, treats only 1-2 times a week.