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Every parent eventually faces the all-too-common dilemma: should you get your child a hamster or just brush off the request? Often, kids develop a sudden interest in hamsters after seeing a friend’s furry pet, especially if that pet recently had a litter. We can almost hear their excited pleas: “It’s free! We don’t even have to pay!” While that sounds tempting, it’s important to remember that hamsters still need escape-proof cages, toys, exercise wheels, and food. Yes, hamster outfits are even a thing! While pets can never truly be “free,” kids often overlook these costs. So, you find yourself with an enthusiastic little one eagerly searching for “types of hamsters” and “how to avoid buying a pregnant hamster.”
As a concerned parent, rest assured, it could be worse. Your child could be trying to convince you to adopt a chicken for a steady supply of “free” eggs (definitely way more work). Or perhaps your little one just watched a movie like Ratatouille and is now begging for a rat or a “cute mouse.” If that weren’t enough, your child might have their eye on some exotic, pricey pet! In the grand scheme of things, hamsters are relatively inexpensive and simple to care for.
If you’re heading to the pet store to pick out one of these furry friends, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. To most of us, a hamster is just a hamster, but different varieties exist that you should be aware of. In a typical American pet store, you’ll likely encounter four common types of hamsters. Here’s a quick overview of each breed, so you can make an informed choice for your family.
Types of Hamsters
Golden Hamsters
Golden hamsters are probably the most recognizable type. They are compact, furry balls with noticeable large feet, sharp claws, and adorable stubby tails. Their cheek pouches are quite large, and if they’ve recently birthed, they might store their babies in those pouches—a sight that can be surprising! Originating from Northwestern Syria, these nocturnal creatures tend to be active during the night, which means you might hear them on their wheel while you’re trying to sleep. They usually live for two to three years but do better when housed alone, as adult golden hamsters can become aggressive towards each other.
Winter White Dwarf Hamsters
These hamsters are also nocturnal and might not provide the interactive pet experience some kids are hoping for. However, they are regarded as the calmest of hamster breeds, making them a great choice for children who want to handle their pets. Like the golden variety, they are better off alone unless you start them together as babies. They typically live one to three years.
Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters
Often referred to as “robo hamsters,” these tiny creatures are the smallest hamsters available. While they are playful and provide lots of entertainment, they are also quite active and can be tricky to catch if they escape. Robo hamsters are generally not aggressive, but they do squirm around a lot and may not enjoy being held as much as other breeds. Their lifespan is similar to that of other hamsters—approximately two to three years.
Chinese Hamsters
This breed hails from China and Mongolia. They can make good pets if they have been socialized properly. If a Chinese hamster has been raised in an environment with frequent handling, they tend to be more friendly. On the other hand, hamsters that haven’t experienced much interaction can be skittish and may bite. They generally have the longest lifespan of the four types, lasting up to three years.
Other Hamster Varieties
If you’re still uncertain about hamster ownership, here are a few other types to explore:
- Campbell’s dwarf hamster
- European hamster
- Grey dwarf hamster
- Gansu hamster
- Chinese striped hamster
- Greater long-tailed hamster
As you consider adding a new furry friend to your home, do thorough research on each type of hamster, especially since information on rarer breeds might be limited.
Rare Hamster Types
Although common hamsters are readily available, some rare types can be more difficult to find:
- Golden Hamsters (also known as Syrian hamsters or teddy bear hamsters)
- Romanian Hamsters (an endangered species found in Bulgaria and Romania)
- Brandt’s Hamsters (found in the mountainous regions of southeastern Europe and the Middle East)
Caring for Hamsters
Hamsters are relatively low-maintenance, but they still require specific care:
- Place the hamster cage in a lively area of your home, avoiding spots where it might get knocked over, but ensuring it’s within earshot of family activities.
- Allow your new pet time to acclimate to you. Start by feeding it for a few days before attempting to hold it.
- When cleaning the cage, dispose of the old bedding and replace it with fresh bedding. Hamsters love to hoard food, so be mindful of that! Clean the bottom of the cage with soap and water, and if you use bleach, rinse thoroughly before adding new bedding and putting the hamster back in.
If you’re curious about more topics related to pet care and family life, consider checking out our article on home insemination kits, which provides valuable insights into family planning. For authoritative advice, Make a Mom is a great resource on this topic, and Healthline offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Deciding to get a hamster can be a fun adventure for families, but it’s essential to understand the different types available and their specific care needs. From the well-known golden hamster to the playful Roborovski dwarf, there are plenty of options to fit your child’s desires. Just remember to do your research to ensure a happy and healthy pet experience!