Here we can see, “Are Hamsters a Good Pet for You?”
When considering whether a hamster is an ideal pet for you and your family, several key considerations are to consider. First, there are several types of hamsters, and their traits and appearance vary depending on the variation. While all hamsters have a similar lifetime and require similar care, select the hamster (or hamsters) that is the greatest fit for you.
Hamster Varieties
These are the three most prevalent types of hamsters available for purchase in pet stores. Hamsters of different species should never be kept together. Because mature females and males are antagonistic against one another, pet hamsters are usually confined alone. If you decide to keep numerous hamsters in the same cage, make careful to determine the gender of each hamster and try to keep only one gender. If you have hamsters of different genders in the same cage, you will likely have hamster babies shortly.
- Syrian hamsters are the most frequent type of hamster kept as a pet. These should be kept in cages one at a time (they will fight if kept together). They can be quite docile and simple to handle.
- Dwarf hamsters (Campbell’s and winter white Russian hamsters, Roborovski hamsters) are more social and should be introduced as a pair as young as possible. However, they are more difficult to control since they are fast and agile.
- Chinese hamsters are close to dwarf hamsters in size, although they are not true dwarf hamsters. They sometimes get along with other Chinese hamsters, but not always. This kind is generally friendly but incredibly swift and agile.
Lifespan
Variable hamsters have slightly different predicted lifespans, but all tend to live for about two years.
- Syrian Hamster: 2 to 3 years
- Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster: 1.5 to 2.5 years
- Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamster: 1 to 3 years
- Roborovski Hamster: 2 to 3 years
- Chinese Hamster: 2 to 3 years
Size and Habitat
The physical sizes of the various hamster species vary quite a little. Therefore, make sure you understand how big your hamster is likely to grow and that you have a hamster habitat that is appropriate for your hamster’s size.
- Syrian Hamster: 5-7 inches
- Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster: 3 inches
- Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamster: 3 inches
- Roborovski Hamster: about 2 inches
- Chinese Hamster: 3-5 inches—and, unlike other hamsters, they have a distinct tail.
It would help if you chose a large enough cage, safe and simple to clean. Unfortunately, ordinary pet store cages are not “one size fits all” for hamster variations. For example, a Syrian hamster requires a different cage than a Chinese hamster.
If you have any doubts regarding the type of hamster or its special care requirements, consult with your veterinarian.
User Questions
Do hamsters stink?
Hamsters don’t stink, but their cages will if you’re not careful. A hamster’s cage should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week. Please remove all bedding and thoroughly scrub the enclosure with a mild detergent and warm water before re-lining it with new bedding.
Can a hamster harm you?
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis is a virus that has been found in hamsters. This virus causes flu-like symptoms or no symptoms at all in healthy persons. It can, however, be passed from a pregnant mother to her unborn child and can cause severe disease in persons with weakened immune systems.
Is hamster poop toxic to humans?
Hamsters can make excellent pets, and in terms of diseases that they can potentially transfer to humans, they are rather low-risk. However, they can carry pathogens such as Salmonella in their faeces and the virus that causes lymphocytic choriomeningitis, to name a few.
Do hamsters know their owners?
A hamster can get to know their owner over time, given enough bonding time. Your hamster will begin to recognise you with the proper amount of socialising. They’ll even start to bind you after a while. On the other hand, Hamsters do not bond with everyone in your life; instead, they often bond with one or two people.
Should I get my 10-year-old a hamster?
They are the most submissive. Hamsters are a fantastic first pet for children aged 10 to 13 since they teach them responsibility. Unfortunately, they only survive for a few years. Keep that in mind while determining whether or not to acquire one for your youngster.
Conclusion
I hope you found this helpful guide. If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to use the form below.
