Here we can see, “Is a Hamster a Good Pet for You?”
Who can resist a hamster’s huge, gleaming eyes, fluffy look, and little toes? It’s no surprise that the hamster is a popular and well-liked tiny rodent pet. However, you should be aware of several myths and frequently unknown truths regarding hamsters before going to the pet store to purchase one. Keeping these points in mind will assist you in determining whether a hamster is a suitable pet for you.
Level of Activity
One thing to keep in mind about hamsters is that they are nocturnal. Therefore, many people imagine a lively tiny creature running around their hamster wheel and keeping them company all day.
In actuality, much of the day is spent napping. Of course, you’ll see your hamster throughout the day, but this isn’t the time when they’re the most active.
If you are a light sleeper, consider where you will put your hamster so that any late-night play sessions do not keep you awake.
These little fellows are ideal late-night buddies if you are a night owl.
Requirements for Cage and Space
While newborns are frequently seen in groups at pet stores, most grown hamsters are territorial and prefer cages. Therefore, if you have a female hamster that gives birth, it is critical to provide her and her offspring with a tranquil, distinct place. 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.
The cage should also be large enough to accommodate separate sleeping, exercising, eating, and toileting facilities.
Cleaning Prerequisites
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 it bothers your new acquaintance.
It is recommended that the cage be cleaned once a week. Always use gloves and thoroughly wash your hands afterward.
Cleaning your hamster’s bathroom and wiping down food and water dishes or bottles are also important cleaning activities. Tidying up your hamster’s bathroom area is best done daily, while food and water dishes and bottles are best done once a week. As needed, replace filthy bedding with fresh bedding.
Taking the cage apart and cleaning it with soap and water will help keep the enclosure clean and free of odors.
Costs and Supplies
Though the expense of purchasing the hamster is low, the cost of owning a hamster does not end there. When determining the expenditures, consider all of the supplies and items needed to properly house and care for a happy hamster.
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 becomes unwell or has a medical problem, you must also consider the possibility of vet bills. Wet tail, respiratory infections, diarrhea, and abscesses are all conditions that necessitate the attention of a veterinarian.
Hamsters and children
Though they are frequently seen as the ideal pet for young children, their small stature and attractive characteristics do not necessarily imply this. Children are frequently capable of squeezing, dropping, or frightening these delicate critters. This can result in a fearful hamster, and frightened or startled hamsters may bite. When a youngster is playing with a hamster, it is always better to have an adult nearby and gently and pleasantly expose them to gentle handling.
Another factor to consider is the hamster’s nocturnal behavior. Many children want a fluffy pet to play with after school, but hamsters normally sleep at 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, fast-moving creatures with the propensity to become disoriented. A rambunctious hamster can get into mischief or be harmed by becoming entangled under furniture, gnawing cables, or being injured by other pets.
Avoid this danger by providing your pet with a hamster ball. It will keep your hamster secure, but it will also give an enjoyable opportunity for him to burn off some energy.
Diseases and Health Issues
Hamsters can carry a variety of illnesses and viruses, including Salmonella and lymphocytic choriomeningitis. Both can be passed on to people.
The easiest approach to avoid getting sick is to wash your hands after handling your hamster or performing everyday duties like feeding or cleaning the cage. This should be emphasized to children as well.
According to the CDC, to reduce the transmission of salmonella from rodents, avoid washing your hamster’s food and water bowls, toys, or cage in an area used for food preparation. Instead, wash these goods in a utility sink, laundry room, or outside.
Life Expectancy
Hamsters typically live for about two years. The agony of losing a pet so rapidly is to consider before bringing a hamster into your home.
Hamsters are delightful, fascinating companions, but they may not be appropriate in many situations. Considering their activity levels, cage and cleaning needs, life expectancy, and potential difficulties will help you decide whether adding a hamster to the family is good.
User Questions
Do hamsters have odors?
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.
Are hamster bites painful?
Hamster bites may be excruciatingly painful. On the other hand, Hamsters are rarely hostile, and their bites are usually superficial. To avoid infection, people who have been bitten should clean the wound with soap and water.
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 feces and the virus that causes lymphocytic choriomeningitis, to name a few.
What is the price of a hamster?
Large cages with tubes and tunnels are sometimes more expensive and difficult to clean, so construct your obstacle course instead of toilet paper rolls. The actual hamster will normally cost between $15 and $20.
Is keeping a hamster a lot of work?
Hamsters are generally self-sufficient and can busy themselves for extended periods if their environment is appropriately supplemented with toys, bedding, and burrowing and climbing options. Still, for your hamster to be happy and well-adjusted, it needs to be handled and interacted with daily.
Conclusion
I hope you found this helpful guide. If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to use the form below.
