Hamsters as Pets for Children

Children are always fascinated by pets and there are many parents, who are confused about choosing the right pet for their kids. Most of the kids, who are under the age of ten, may choose small, hairy, cuddly animals, like teddy bear hamsters as pets. Hamsters are very popular as pets and are considered the best small pets for children. But, are pet hamsters good for small children? While most parents have speculations about why hamsters make the best pet for kids, there are others, who readily succumb to the pestering of their kids. Hence, it is better to have a fair idea regarding hamsters as pets for children.

More about Hamsters
We all know that hamsters are tiny, hairy creatures that resemble rat and mice. They are mammals that belong to the class of rodents. The word hamster is derived from a German word that means, 'to hoard'. These animals have the habit of hoarding food in their cheek pouches. In their natural habitat, they run around in search of food and once they find it, they store it in their cheek pouches. This food will be stored in their burrows for later use. These nocturnal animals come in different colors and attractive markings. The most popular pet hamster is the six-inch Syrian hamster, which is otherwise known as the golden hamster. There are many other species, like, Roborovsky's Djungarian, Chinese hamster, White Russian (Siberian) dwarf hamster, Campbell's Russian dwarf hamsters, etc. While the Syrian hamsters are bigger in size as compared to others, they have a good lifespan too. The lifespan of Syrian hamsters ranges between two to three years, whereas others live up to 12 or 18 months. Now, let us take a look at the various aspects of hamsters as pets.

Advantages of Hamsters as Pets
There are numerous reasons behind the popularity of hamsters as pets. They are one in the inexpensive pets category and are often called 'pocket pets' for their small size. Hamsters are perfect for those people, who find it difficult to afford expensive pets and also for those, who have a shortage of space for larger pets. They are sure to win the hearts of your kids with their antics, as hamsters love to roll on the ground, like small, soft balls. They climb tunnels and make funny movements. These animals are quite entertaining and require minimal care, which includes food, water, bedding, some toys, vitamins and minerals. The hamster house has to be cleaned regularly and fresh water and food should be provided on a regular basis.

Hamsters as Pets for Kids
Selecting the right animal as a pet for your kids is a difficult task. Children may have their own priorities, but before giving in to their pestering, you must have some idea about the animals they want as pets. If your kid wants a hamster, you must get some information about these animals, their habits, requirements and compatibility with kids. You must also know about how to care for your pet hamsters.

You are already aware of the advantages of hamsters as pets. But, this animal has many disadvantages too. In general, hamsters have short lifespan, they are nocturnal, they can bite and can escape easily. These animals take time to socialize, chew on everything, breed rapidly and the males have urine with a strong smell. Now, coming to hamsters as pets for children, we shall make two categories - kids under the age of five and those who are above that age. For the second category, hamsters can be good pets, as these animals are entertaining, of small size, require less care, etc. But, hamsters being nocturnal, they will be active during nighttime, when your kids sleep. You will also have to be wary of its bite, especially when they are awakened during the day or when handled improperly. These animals are so fragile that the kids have to be gentle while handling these tiny, furry creatures. You can also opt for hamsters as classroom pets.

For a child, who is under the age of five, hamsters are not a good choice. There is no point in adopting a nocturnal animal as a pet for small children. Apart from that, these animals have a biting tendency. Small kids may not be able to handle these small creatures gently and properly. Improper handling may also result in hamster bites. Above all, like some other "non-traditional" pets, like turtles, hedgehogs, lizards and baby chicks, hamsters too carry harmful and deadly germs that can cause infections in small kids. Even though, others are also exposed to this risk, kids under the age of five are more prone to infections, because of their developing immune system and their habit of putting hands in their mouths. According to health experts, hamsters can also carry harmful germs that can cause severe diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps in small children. So, you have to be extra cautious, if your kids handle hamsters. In that case, the hamsters (and their home) should be cleaned regularly and properly. Precautions like regular hand washing are also advisable.

Now, you are aware of the pros and cons of hamsters as pets for children. Pets are good for children, but make sure that you keep infants, toddlers and preschoolers away from these animals, especially the non-traditional ones. Or else, you can consult the veterinarian about the specific risks associated with your pet and adopt measures to minimize or eliminate such risks. You can also wait for your child to get older and then bring his/her favorite pet.