At some point, nearly every parent finds themselves facing a familiar dilemma: should they get their child a hamster or simply decline the request? The allure of hamsters often comes after a friend’s pet has had babies, prompting enthusiastic pleas like, “But it’s free!” While that sounds tempting, it’s essential to remember that hamsters still need secure habitats, toys, exercise wheels, and food. They even have their own cute outfits! Owning any pet comes with costs, and kids might not fully grasp that yet. You’re left with a hopeful child, an endless stream of searches like “types of hamsters” and “how to avoid buying a pregnant hamster.”
But fear not! While this decision can feel overwhelming, just think: your child could be trying to convince you to adopt a pet chicken in exchange for “free” eggs, or they could be dreaming of a rat after watching a movie like Ratatouille. In comparison, hamsters are relatively affordable and simple to care for.
If you’re heading to the pet store to find one of these furry friends, you might feel uncertain about your options. While to many, all hamsters may seem the same, there are actually several distinct types. Here’s a quick overview of four common varieties you might encounter, to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Hamsters
- Golden Hamsters
Golden hamsters are likely the ones you’ve seen before. These round, fluffy creatures boast large feet, sharp claws, and adorable stubby tails. They have impressive cheek pouches that can be a surprise if they’re holding their babies, which can be quite alarming if you’re not expecting it. Originating from Northwestern Syria, these hamsters are nocturnal, so be ready for some late-night wheel activity. Golden hamsters typically live for about two to three years and are best kept alone, as they can be aggressive towards one another. - Winter White Dwarf Hamsters
Also nocturnal, winter white dwarf hamsters are known for their calm demeanor, making them a good choice for kids who want a pet they can hold. They too thrive best when housed alone unless they are paired as babies. Their lifespan also ranges from one to three years. Just a reminder: hamsters breed rapidly, so avoid housing males and females together unless you’re ready for a hamster family! - Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters
Often referred to as “robo hamsters,” these little guys are among the smallest hamster breeds available. Their small size can make them tricky to find if they escape. They are the most active of the group, providing plenty of entertainment, but can be squirmy and hesitant to be held. They live for about two to three years as well. - Chinese Hamsters
These hamsters, hailing from China and Mongolia, can make great pets if raised in interactive environments. If they haven’t had much human contact, they might be skittish and prone to nipping. Chinese hamsters have the longest lifespan of the types discussed, typically reaching around three years.
Other Hamster Varieties
If you’re still unsure about hamsters, consider researching these other types: Campbell’s dwarf hamster, European hamster, grey dwarf hamster, Gansu hamster, Chinese striped hamster, greater long-tailed hamster, Mesocricetus hamster, Allocricetus hamster, and Cricetulus hamster.
When adding a pet to your family, thorough research is essential, including learning about the different hamster breeds, which can be found here.
Rare Hamster Varieties
While hamsters are generally easy to find, some rare types include:
- Golden Hamsters (also known as Syrian or teddy bear hamsters)
- Romanian Hamsters (an endangered species native to Bulgaria and Romania)
- Brandt’s Hamsters (found in the mountains of southeastern Europe and the Middle East)
Caring for Hamsters
Hamsters are relatively low-maintenance but do require specific care. Place their cage in a busy area of your home for socialization, but away from drafts or extreme temperatures. Avoid picking them up immediately; give them time to become comfortable with you. When cleaning their cage, replace old bedding regularly, as hamsters love to hoard food.
For more insights into pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy.
If you’re interested in at-home insemination kits, visit Cryobaby for more information.
Leave a Reply