So, finally you have decided to get a cute little hamster. They makes a great pet for kids and adults too. If your kids are asking you for pets then hamsters are the best pet to start from however it is recommended that do not leave your child with them without any supervision. This is the best pet even for you, if you return home after a long hectic day, then having hamsters are a great source of entertainment, you can feel relaxed by watching them play. If you want a right hamster for you then read these tips which might help you.
1. RESEARCH, RESEARCH AND RESERACH :-
There are many types of breeds of hamsters and choosing from them might be difficult for you. Research is the best way in deciding which breed you really want. You can search on the internet or asks neighbours who have a hamster as pet, you can even ask from the shopkeeper of hamsters. They usually range in size from six to seven inches. If you want a hamster for your kid then look for a hamster with a good temperament and can be handled even during the times when he is awake, for example sturdy syrian is the best choice for them. Generally hamsters can be annoyed of you awakened him during his sleep hours. 2. GO TO THE STORE :-
Now, after doing research on hamsters, go to the store and try to go into smaller store instead of larger stores as the people in larger stores are less likely to take care of hamesters as compared to small stores, and therefore, hamsters are more likely to prone sickness in larger stores. Before going to the store, decide atleast three to four types of hamsters which you want to adopt. 3. LOOK FOR SIGNS OF A YOUNG HAMSTER :-
Hamsters only live for two to three years and I know you do not want to buy a older hamster who is already one year and therefore, if you buy it, then only one or two year will be left for him which can make you and your kids depressed so try to look for a hamster who is only six to ten weeks old, so that you will have to spend more time with him. The older hamster will be big in size and have yellowish teeth whereas a younger hamster will have white teeth and thin white hair in it’s ears.
4. FIND A HEALTHY HAMSTER :-
Look for a overall body condition of a hamster, he should neither be skinny nor fat, without any swellings. The nose and eyes should not show any signs of discharge. The fur on the hamster must be free of bald spots and there should not be any signs of scratches or scabs on the skin. Also check his ears if it has been torn as it might be a sign that he has been in a fight or not been looked or cared properly.
5. ASK THE EMPLOYEES OF THE STORE TO PICK UP THE HAMSTER :-
When the employee picks up the hamster then you try to pet him with your two fingers. If he seems to be comfortable with it then it means he is comfortable with you. Doing this will make him feel that you are not going to harm him in anyway.
6. HANDLING IT BY YOURSELF :-
After petting him right and if he feels comfortable then try to hold the hamster now, by yourself. As after adopting the hamster, YOU have to take care and handle him so its important from the begining that your hamster should be comfortable with holding him properly. During holding him, if he moves and then stops, then it is fine. If he stops in your hand, then it might mean that he is not in the correct position, whereas if he don’t stop then it could mean that he does not feel safe in your hands and is not in the right position.
7. TAKE HIM HOME WITH YOU :-
Now, if you have decided which hamster you are going to take at your home so now, the shopkeeper will give it in the small box. If he starts biting box then it means that he is not comfortable in the box which is completely norma so you need not to worry about it. Once you have got him at your home, make sure to let him run around his cage for a short time so that he feels ok with it. Initially, try not to play with it as he might feel incomfortable with you and he could even bite if feels scared. But you can give him treats which will be enough for you in order to gaining his trust and respect.
8. HAVE FUN :- No doubt, hamsters are great pets and you can start playing with him after next two or three days. However make sure not to annoy him by awaking him during his sleep hours and also handle him properly as these things might make him angry and therefore bites you however they are the cutest creatures and you will love by watching them play. So good luck!