It'll keep you awake! (Hamsters)

Member Name: jfm_uk

Product:	Hamsters
Date:	21/09/00 (54 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap, easy to tame

Disadvantages: nocturnal

Hamsters of all varieties, are often seen as the ideal pet for young children. This is generally the case, except for one aspect, which is that they are nocturnal. So when your child is awake, the hamster will nost likely want to sleep. And if the hamster is within earshot at night, it is guaranteed to keep you awake with its incessant gnawing, or running in its wheel! They are also short lived, in common with many small creatures, you may get a year or two from this little fellow.

Having said that, there are some advantages. Hamsters are cheap to acquire, and cheap to keep. They are easily tamed if handled carefully from a young age.

A spacious cage with secure doors is a must (hamsters are quick to take advantage of any likely escape route). The cage and bedding should be regularly cleaned. In addition, you will require a water bottle, which must be kept clean and fresh, a food bowl, and some bedding (proprietry bedding is available, this is better than improvising as it is safe for the hamster to eat). A range of climbing and burrowing toys will be appreciated. As would an excersise wheel, or ball. As hamsters are rodents, they need to chew to keep their teeth short, chewing blocks are available.

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