Are hamsters good pets for kids?

A child younger than six may not be able to handle a hamster properly, as they require a gentle touch and a supportive hold. Hamsters make great pets for school-aged children because though they are low maintenance, they are super fun to play with and watch and are quite interactive with people and their environment.

Are hamsters safe pets for kids?

Children under 5 are particularly vulnerable to the effects of salmonella, a type of intestinal bacteria that hamsters can carry. Although rare, hamsters have been known to carry Lymphocytic choriomeningitis, a virus that can seriously sicken young children.

Why hamsters are not good pets for kids?

Hamsters are sensitive to mishandling and will bite if they aren't treated appropriately, so children need to be shown the correct way to interact. Children also need guidance on feeding, cleaning out the cage, and making sure that the hamster gets enough exercise and play.

What is a good age for a kid to get a hamster?

They are the most docile. Hamsters are good for kids aged 10-13 as a first time pet that they can learn to be responsible for. They only live a few years though. Just think about that when deciding to get one for your child.

What is the friendliest hamster for kids?

Syrian hamsters are the best hamster breed for kids and make the perfect first pet. Happy, friendly and larger in size, they are easier to handle and train. Docile in nature, they tend not to nip so can be held by small or less experienced children.

Pros and Cons of owning Hamsters

Do hamster bites hurt?

It's rare for a hamster to actually be aggressive, though, and they typically only bite when they get scared. Those tiny teeth may not do as much damage as those of other animals, but a bite will hurt and should be discouraged.

Should I get a male or female hamster?

Males are generally friendlier and less aggressive than females. If you're wanting to handle your hamster often, then males are a better choice. They're a better option for children also, who are more likely to trigger a female hamster's aggression or territorial behaviors.

Do hamsters stink?

Hamsters don't stink but, if you aren't diligent, their cages sure will. A hamster's cage needs a full cleaning at least once a week. Dump all of the bedding and scrub the enclosure thoroughly with a mild detergent and warm water, then re-line it with brand new bedding.

What is the best pet for a kid?

Are hamsters loud?

Hamsters are generally quiet animals that are not known for being loud, but as any hamster owner will tell you, these little animals are capable of making several unique vocalizations.

Why hamsters are the worst?

Hamsters sleep for most of the day, and only get active really late into the night, when you and your kids are likely to already be asleep. Forcing them to wake up for play time earlier in the day not only distresses the hamster, it's also pretty cruel and could affect their health in the long run.

Do hamsters poop a lot?

Hamsters poop a lot because they eat a lot and are so small. Just remember to clean the cage regularly and pay attention to your pet's pooping habits to make sure that everything looks like it should.

Is it safe to have a hamster in your bedroom?

Keep your hamster in your bedroom only if you keep it warm in there, as cooler temperatures can send a hamster into hibernation. Temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit to 75 degrees Fahrenheit are appropriate for a hamster.

Can hamster urine make you sick?

Humans can develop LCMV infection from exposure to rodent urine, droppings, saliva, or nesting material of infected rodents. Virus transmission can also occur when these materials are directly introduced into broken skin or into the nose, eyes, or mouth or by a bite from an infected animal.

Are hamsters dirty?

Hamsters have earned a reputation as clean and easy-to-care for pets. They typically self-groom when they are awake, usually at night, and enjoy the occasional sand bath to keep themselves clean. However, this doesn't mean pet parents should ignore their hamster's cleanliness.

What is a good pet for a 12 year old?

According to Dr. Lianne McLeod, the veterinary guide for exotic pets at about.com, top seven are: guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, gerbils, mice, lepard geckos, and Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches. Other animal-care professionals promote birds or fish as ideal first pets for children.

Is a hamster a good pet for an 8 year old?

Hamsters make great pets for school-aged children because though they are low maintenance, they are super fun to play with and watch and are quite interactive with people and their environment. Hamsters are a load of fun. If your child is ready for the commitment and the care as well as the love, go for it!

What's a good pet for a 7 year old?

Parakeets (also called budgies) can be a good option when it comes to pets for kids. “They're fairly low-maintenance, not super messy and don't take up a lot of space,” says Dr. Hess. She explains that by the age of 7, children start to understand how to be gentle with pets and can actively engage in their bird's care.

Do hamsters have periods?

Hamsters have a short and consistent estrous cycle (4 days), a predictable time of ovulation, and a short gestation period (16 days).

Are hamsters noisy at night?

Hamsters often make a lot of noise during the night, and that can be too disruptive for those sleeping nearby. You don't have to suffer through noisy nights. There are ways for both you and your hamster to get what you need. Hamsters are nocturnal creatures.

Do hamsters need baths?

Hamsters are fastidious groomers and do a good job keeping themselves clean, baths, as we tend to think of them, are not necessary. However, it is possible to spot-clean them, if they truly need it. It is especially important to check their bottom as sometimes bedding can stick after going to the bathroom.

What hamster is best for beginners?

The most common breed of hamster that is kept as a pet is the Syrian hamster. They are more commonly referred to as golden hamsters or teddy bear hamsters and are considered to be the friendliest option for families with children.

How much do hamsters cost?

Hamsters cost $5 – $50. It varies so much depending on the type of hamster and what's included in the purchase (such as a cage, food, etc.). Age may also play a factor. If you find a surrendered hamster at a local rescue group, you can expect they've had wellness checks by a vet.

Are balls safe for hamsters?

Hamster balls could cause injuries and even death.

As the hamster has difficulties using its senses very well in an exercise ball, it is unable to manoeuvre or stop whenever it needs to, often colliding into walls or crashing into furniture around the house.