Otto

[Member ID2]

Hope you’ve got a brolly

Funny you say that. I was actually sitting on the floor near his cage so it was a near miss. Poor little Lilly wasn't that far away either and had a lucky escape.

 

[Hamster Haven]

I'm well aware that Otto looks a bit like a skinny version of Jack but that was not the reason i got him, not consciously anyway.

For practical reasons, i.e. fading eyesight of a pair of oldies, i had been looking for a cream or white male Syrian hamster, ideally short haired and not a baby or youngster.

This afternoon i sat on the floor while Lilly was out again and browsed through the freeads. Otto's ad caught my eye because he was a hamster in a Hamster Heaven going for free. Hamster Heavens sell for around £25/30 so there's always a risk of a hamster falling into unscrupulous hands and possibly ending up as snake food.

Someone was trying to rehome him on behalf of a friend who didn't have the time to give him the care and love he deserved. The family was genuine and really wanted a good home for him.

Otto lived in a Hamster Heaven without a wheel but had a big blue hamster ball. He had toys but they were either dangerous or too small. He had Carefresh bedding but was fed on nuggets. They tried and cared but didn't know about hamsters.

His original name sounded similar to Otto so i called him after one of my late uncles.

Otto is around a year old and tame. He's currently exploring the hall playground.

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How exciting for you and Otto! I had a crazy work week and a cold, so I am just catching up with the Hamster Forum posts. Can't wait to read more about this guy.

 

[Member ID2]

Hope your cold's better. Reading up on the forum is a good tonic.

 

[Member ID2]

Otto had a good run around tonight. He loves to freeroam but he also seems to like his home.

 

[RainbowBrite]

Otto has such a sweet and innocent little face.

 

[Maz]

He really does - he looks friendly too

 

[Member ID2]

So far Otto comes across as a calm and gentle hamster but everything is still very new to him so more of his personality will come through yet.

 

[Frida]

Otto is so lovely to look at

 

[elusive]

He does look lovely, he’s settled in so quickly, must be loving his new home.

 

[Maz]

It's lovely he comes across as a calm gentle hamster I think first impressions may be right.

 

[Member ID2]

I can't help thinking that Otto is an older hamster. When he wakes one of his eyes isn't completely open and he feels light and a bit bony to me.
Not that it matters, whether he's only around a year or not, either way i'm glad that he's living here now.
I was thinking of upgrading him to a Plaza but will see how he gets on with the Alaska which may be enough for him.
He picks up a good speed when he runs around on the floor and enjoys a proper run.

 

[RainbowBrite]

I would not be surprised if he is older then you were told. I think he looks wise. I know he will gain weight being with you now just like Eddie and little Bernard did.

 

[Maz]

Yes time will tell maybe. The stress of change can cause sticky eyes as well sometimes. Even if it's a positive change! I know what you mean about the boney feel older syrians get though - but he maybe does just need time to thrive and time will tell. Look at Raffy when he came and now!

 

[elusive]

He could be older, I can imagine that some people might be a bit vague about the age of a hamster they want to rehome or they just think a younger hamster might be easier to rehome.
Also the conditions he was in might have something to do with it. Even with young hams we never really know how long they will be with us but he’s happy now & I’m sure his overall health will improve with all the tlc he’ll be getting & you’ll both enjoy your time together.

 

[Member ID2]

Yes and the family i got him from weren't the original owners. They took him in because he wasn't cared for. I think to get the care he needs should make a difference.

 

[Maz]

Sounds like lots of building up needed! Plenty of treats and a good diet with plenty of protein at first. Which I know is what he'll get with you anyway!

 

[Member ID2]

He's not that into food but has started to eat a bit more now. He took his yippee to his nest last night and i heard him scrunching away on it which was music to my ears. He likes his porridge which pleases my OH no end.

 

[RainbowBrite]

Your OH is famous for his porridge with your hamsters.

 

[Maz]

Does he like nuts? Most of my syrians have gone bonkers for half a walnut. Nuts are good for protein and healthy fats and building up too

 

[Daisy]

He does have the look of an older hamster. I don't think they usually start to get that boney appearance until closer to 2 years old unless ill.

The most important thing is that he's landed a great home for whatever time he has left.

I love his ears. They remind me of a female Syrian I know named Alex who has the same huge ears!