Hamster care for kids · 4 min read
Getting a hamster
A hamster is tiny, but looking after one is a big job. Here is how to get ready.
Is a hamster right for you?
Hamsters are small and cute. But they are not toys.
They sleep all day and wake up in the evening. They like quiet. They do not like loud noise or being grabbed.
A hamster lives for about 2 years. That is a long time to be kind every single day.
A hamster is a good idea if…
- You like watching animals quietly.
- You are happy to help clean every week.
- A grown-up will help you and pay for the vet.
- You can be gentle and patient.
Maybe wait if…
- You want a pet to cuddle all day.
- You want a pet that plays in the morning.
- Nobody at home has time for daily care.
- You have a cat or dog that cannot be kept away.
The shopping list
Before the hamster comes home, everything must be ready. Here is what Potato has:
- A big home with a solid floor (as big as you can). No thin bars a hamster can squeeze through.
- Deep bedding made of dust-free, unscented paper. Deep means as deep as a grown-up's hand, or more, so he can dig tunnels.
- A big solid wheel. Potato's wheel is bigger than a dinner plate!
- A little house to hide and sleep in.
- A sand bath with special hamster sand (not dust).
- Hamster food, a heavy food bowl and a water bottle or bowl.
- Things to chew: wooden toys, cardboard tubes, dried flowers.
Ask a grown-up to check the sizes. Many cages in shops are too small.
The first days
- Put the hamster's carry box in the new home. Open it. Walk away.
- Leave him alone for 3 days. Yes, three! Just give food and water.
- Talk softly near the home so he learns your voice.
- After a few days, put your hand in and stay still. Let him sniff you.
- Only pick him up when he is not scared. Always sitting down.
Going slow is the fast way to make friends with a hamster.
Where to put the home
- A quiet room. Not next to a TV or speakers.
- Out of direct sun and away from cold windows.
- Somewhere a cat or dog cannot reach.
- Not too high up. If the home is on a shelf, a grown-up must make sure it cannot fall.
Potato's quick quiz
True or false? Tap to see the answer.
A hamster is a great pet to play with in the morning.
Nope. Hamsters sleep in the day. They wake up in the evening.
A hamster needs a big home with deep bedding.
True! Digging is a hamster's favourite thing. Deep bedding lets him dig.
You should leave a new hamster alone for a few days.
True! A new home is scary. Quiet days help him feel safe.
Questions kids ask
How long does a hamster live?
Usually about 2 years. Some live a bit longer.
Can two hamsters live together?
Most hamsters like living alone. Syrian hamsters must always live alone. Ask a grown-up to check.
Can I hold my hamster on the first day?
No. Let him rest for about three days first. Then start slowly.