Hamsters, with their endearing fluffy fur, prominent teeth, and charmingly stuffed cheeks, often capture the hearts of children. Teddy bear hamsters, in particular, are a favorite, resembling miniature, living teddy bears. They appear to be simple to care for, requiring minimal upkeep. Pet stores frequently offer starter kits, complete with cages featuring tunnels, exercise wheels, water bottles, food, and bedding – seemingly everything needed to welcome a new pet into your home.
Those petite dwarf hamsters are undeniably captivating. Even as a veterinarian, the temptation to bring one home arises every time I visit a pet store (which is precisely why I try to avoid them!). However, despite their cuddly appearance, it might surprise you to learn that I generally do not recommend hamsters as pets for young children.
One common request is to keep the hamster cage in a child’s bedroom. However, it’s crucial to understand that hamsters are nocturnal creatures. They are naturally programmed to sleep throughout the day and become active at night. This is an inherent trait that cannot be altered. While your children are eager to play during the day, their hamster will likely be asleep. Conversely, as your children are trying to sleep at night, the hamster will be energetically running on its wheel, potentially disrupting their rest.
Furthermore, hamsters are known to bite, especially when they are disturbed or abruptly awakened. Children, excited about their new pet, often want to interact with the hamster and introduce it to friends after school. Unfortunately, this coincides with the hamster’s prime sleeping hours. A startled hamster is likely to defend itself with a bite, using their surprisingly sharp teeth. Speaking from personal experience, having been bitten by a few hamsters, I can attest that it is indeed painful! They are surprisingly tenacious little rodents, and once they bite, they tend to hold on, even if you react with pain or surprise.
Beyond biting, another important consideration for parents is that hamsters are not particularly robust animals. Their lifespan is relatively short, typically around two years. They are susceptible to stress-related illnesses, including wet tail, a severe form of diarrhea that can be fatal. Remarkably, even the stress of transitioning from the pet store to a new home can trigger illness in some hamsters.
Another challenge with hamsters is their propensity for escape. They are adept at chewing through materials and finding weaknesses in their enclosures. Regularly inspecting the cage for security and ensuring doors are properly latched is essential. A childhood memory vividly illustrates this point: I recall being awakened by the frustrated voices of my parents as they searched for Rocky, our family hamster, who had escaped and was discovered under their bed. My older brother had not securely latched the cage door after feeding him, allowing Rocky to escape into the basement, make his way upstairs, and into my parents’ bedroom where he proceeded to chew on a shoebox. Rocky was given a second chance, but when he escaped again a few nights later and damaged a brand-new carpet, my mother decided he would be better suited to a different home.
If you are seeking a small pet for your young children and find goldfish unappealing, you might want to consider gerbils as an alternative. While gerbils may not possess the same level of “cuteness” as hamsters in some people’s eyes, they are generally hardier and less prone to stress-related diseases. Gerbils are social animals and tend to be more active during daylight hours, aligning better with children’s waking hours. While they can also be active at night, they are less likely to engage in the same level of nocturnal wheel-running that can disturb sleep. Furthermore, gerbils typically have a longer lifespan, ranging from two to four years.
If your family is set on getting a hamster, consider finding a reputable private breeder rather than purchasing from a pet store. Hamsters from private homes are often healthier and, having been handled more frequently, tend to be less prone to aggression. Regardless of the type of pet you choose, thorough research is crucial to ensure you select the right animal for your family and are well-prepared to provide everything needed for your new furry friend to thrive. If you are uncertain or have questions, consulting with your family veterinarian is always a wise step. Veterinarians are happy to assist you in making informed decisions about pet ownership that are right for your family.
