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Pet Hamster, Facts To Consider

Is your child asking you to buy them a dog? Perhaps you’re not quite ready to bring such a large animal into your home. What about getting your child something smaller? A pet hamster might be a good choice. The following are facts to consider before you buy a hamster and make it a part of your child’s life.

Talk with your child to determine if they are ready for the responsibility of having a pet. Will they feed and water it each day? The litter and cage will also need to be cleaned periodically. Are they prepared to do that or will that task fall to you?

You may want to borrow or purchase a book about hamsters. Take time to read through the book with your child so you’ll both understand what caring for a hamster entails. Another option would be to research hamsters on the internet or in an encyclopedia. You want to learn as much about hamsters as possible to help you make an informed decision about having one as a pet.

What equipment is necessary?

  • Obviously the hamster will need a cage. How big should this be? You can purchase a small plastic cage with a metal grate at the bottom or something more elaborate with tubes. A 10-gallon fish tank will also work for a hamster cage but you’ll want to ensure the tank has a tight-fitting lid so your hamster won’t escape.
  • Where will you keep the cage? The best place is probably in a common room rather than your child’s bedroom. This way you’ll be able to watch how your child reacts to the hamster and control how much it is held.
  • Do you know the best type of bedding or litter for it? All bedding is not the same. In fact, some bedding is not recommended for use with hamsters. When you read about hamsters you’ll be able to be sure you get the right type.
  • Does a hamster need toys? You may want to get them an exercise wheel or ball.
  • How will it get food and water? Most hamster cages will come with a water bottle and may also have a small dish. Of course, there’s no reason you can’t choose a different bowl to place food, but having the food and water dishes already with the cage may make your job a little easier.
  • A small house might also be a good idea. Hamsters like to hide under or in things. If you don’t purchase a small house or hollow log, don’t be surprised if they hide among the litter.

Hamsters can be fun pets for children. You will want to explain that they are small and easily injured if they are squeezed. Children don’t mean to treat small animals poorly but they can squirm and wiggle so they are easy to drop.

It’s also good to be aware that hamsters can nip or bite if startled or treated badly. Learn how to pick up a hamster and what to do if your child or you are bitten. A veterinarian or pet store employee may be able to help you learn to do this.

Consider the fact hamsters don’t live long – about three years – if your child has a tender heart. Having a pet that they love is great but they may not be ready to lose it. These are some of the things to consider when thinking about getting your child a pet hamster.