Do You Need a Hamster as a Pet?

Who can resist a hamster's huge, gleaming eyes, fluffy coat, and little toes? It's no surprise that the hamster is a popular tiny rodent pet. However, there are certain common misunderstandings and facts regarding hamsters that you should be aware of before going to the pet store to get one. Keeping these points in mind will assist you in deciding whether a hamster is a suitable pet for you.

Activity Level

One thing to keep in mind with hamsters is that they are nocturnal animals. Many people imagine a lively little creature going around in their hamster wheel, keeping them company all day.

In truth, most people nap during the day. Of course, you'll see your hamster at other times of the day, but this isn't the time when they're most active.

If you are a light sleeper, think about where you will put your hamster so that any late-night play sessions don't keep you awake.

These little fellows are ideal late-night buddies if you're a night owl.

Requirements for the cage and the available space

Despite the fact that baby hamsters are frequently seen in groups at pet stores, most grown hamsters are territorial and require their own cage. If you have a female hamster who gives birth, it's critical to provide a peaceful, separate space for her and her offspring. A hamster mother that is anxious or upset may kill or consume her kids.

Certain species, such as dwarf hamsters, can coexist as long as they are introduced properly.

Separate sleeping, exercising, feeding, and toileting places should all be available in the cage.

Cleaning Instructions

It is critical to keep your hamster's cage clean for both your and your hamster's health. However, you don't want to clean it so frequently that your new acquaintance becomes irritated.

Cleaning the cage once a week is recommended. Always put on gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Keeping your hamster's bathroom area clean and wiping out food and water dishes or bottles are other cleaning duties. Cleaning your hamster's bathroom area on a daily basis is recommended while cleaning food and water dishes and bottles should be done once a week. As needed, remove filthy bedding and replace it with new bedding.

Taking the cage entirely apart and cleaning it with soap and water every now and then will help keep the enclosure clean and odor-free.

Costs and Supplies

Though the hamster itself is inexpensive, the cost of owning a hamster does not end there. Consider all of the goods and items needed to properly house and care for a happy hamster when determining the costs.

A cage, bedding material, nesting area, exercise wheel, tunnels and games, water bottle, food dish, food, and treats are just a few examples.

If your hamster gets sick or has health concerns, you'll have to factor in the cost of a vet visit. Wet tail, respiratory infections, diarrhea, and abscesses are all conditions that may necessitate a visit to the veterinarian.

Hamsters and children

Though they are frequently seen as the ideal pet for young children, their small stature and charming characteristics do not always imply this. These delicate organisms are frequently squeezed, dropped, or startled by children. This can cause a hamster to get terrified, and worried or startled hamsters may bite. When a youngster is playing with a hamster, it's ideal to keep an eye on them and gradually and gently introduce them to gentle handling.

The hamster's nocturnal nature should also be considered. Many children want a fluffy pet to play with after school, but hamsters prefer to sleep during this time. The hamster may become cranky, disturbed, or insecure in their surroundings if they are awakened from their nap.

In addition to the reasons stated above, hamsters are small, quick animals with the potential to become lost. A hamster on the loose might get themselves into problems or harm themselves by becoming stuck under furniture, gnawing wiring, or being injured by other animals.

Provide a hamster ball for your pet to zoom around in to avoid this danger. It will not only keep your hamster secure, but will also give an enjoyable opportunity for him to burn off some energy.

Health Issues and Diseases

Salmonella and lymphocytic choriomeningitis are two diseases and viruses that hamsters can have. Both are transmissible to humans.

The easiest approach to avoid getting sick is to wash your hands after handling your hamster or when performing everyday duties such as feeding or cleaning the cage. This is something that should be emphasized with youngsters as well.

You should avoid washing your hamster's food and water bowls, toys, or cage in an area where food is prepared, according to the CDC's guidelines for preventing salmonella transmission from rodents. Instead, use a utility sink, laundry room, or the outdoors to wash these items.

Expected Life Expectancy

Hamsters live for roughly two years on average. It's important to consider the sadness of losing a pet so rapidly before opting to bring a hamster into your home.

Hamsters are great and fascinating companions, but they are not appropriate for all situations. You can assess whether adding a hamster to the family is the correct decision by considering their activity levels, cage and cleaning requirements, life expectancy, and potential concerns.