What you need to know before you start considering Hamsters as "Pet"

When you buy hamsters, you support animal cruelty mills, A routine inspection by the U.S. Department of Agriculture revealed that one PetSmart supplier allegedly allowed severely stressed hamsters to eat each other and left the remains of the dead animals in their cages

When you buy hamsters, you support animal cruelty mills, A routine inspection by the U.S. Department of Agriculture revealed that one PetSmart supplier allegedly allowed severely stressed hamsters to eat each other and left the remains of the dead animals in their cages

Barbanne Hams4anne GIF

Barbanne Hams4anne GIF

Hamsters need large, safe homes Make sure no lattice cage has gaps larger than a half inch (for large hamsters) or a quarter inch (for dwarf hamsters) as they could squeeze through.  Hamsters also have the ability to flatten their bodies and fit through very small holes and crevices.  They are easily lost and can be difficult to find, often being injured or killed on the run.

Hamster Mümmelmann GIF

Hamster Mümmelmann GIF

Finding a vet for your hamster can be difficult A hamster is considered an "exotic animal" and must be examined by a specialist veterinarian. Many people don't know this.

Hamsters Hamster Eating GIF

Hamsters Hamster Eating GIF

Hamster Balls and Wheels are not just fun and games While hamsters need to be able to play and explore, familiar hamster toys,

Hamster Ayasan GIF

Hamster Ayasan GIF

A hamster wheel that provides a safe place for your hamster to exercise when using the correct size, a hamster ball is not recommended. Hamsters are easily startled because they don't have the best eyesight and use their whiskers to navigate.

Hamster Ayasan GIF

Hamster Ayasan GIF

A lonely hamster is a happy hamster While some animals need friends and companionship, hamsters do not. 

Hamster Scared GIF

Hamster Scared GIF

A Syrian hamster can bond with a human guardian, but they should not live with another hamster. They are territorial and likely to fight.

Funny Hamster Swing GIF

Funny Hamster Swing GIF

Hamsters need special bedding and nesting materials Cat litter, newspaper and "fluff" litter can cause life-threatening illness in your hamster and should be avoided. 

Sleepy Hamster GIF

Sleepy Hamster GIF

 Aspen shavings, paper litter, and hemp are acceptable options and can even be mixed together in a hamster enclosure. Your pet will also appreciate a small container of sand for bathing.

Hamster Happy Dance GIF

Hamster Happy Dance GIF

Hamsters have a sleep schedule Hamsters are crepuscular, meaning they are active at dusk and dawn and spend both day and night hours in their nest.

Barbanne Hams4anne GIF

Barbanne Hams4anne GIF

Hamsters have a sleep schedule Hamsters are crepuscular, meaning they are active at dusk and dawn and spend both day and night hours in their nest.

Hamster Sleep GIF

Hamster Sleep GIF

This can be frustrating for a caregiver who wants to play with their companion during the day.

Barbanne Hams4anne GIF

Barbanne Hams4anne GIF

 Hamsters are not "starter pets" Although hamsters are small, they still carry a lot of responsibility

Hampster Hamster GIF

Hampster Hamster GIF

They require daily care, exercise and attention, just like other animal companions

Hamster Hamster Run GIF

Hamster Hamster Run GIF