Why are hamsters a bad pet?

Why are hamsters a bad pet?

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.

Are hamsters a bad pet?

Hamsters have been known to carry a virus called Lymphocytic choriomeningitis. In healthy adults, this virus causes flu-like symptoms or no symptoms at all. However, it can be transmitted from a pregnant mother to their unborn child and can produce severe illness in people with compromised immune systems.

Do hamsters recognize their owners?

A hamster can get to know his or her owner over time and given enough bonding time. See, with the right amount of socialization, your hamster will begin to recognize you. In fact, after a while, they'll even start to bond you. However, hamsters won't bond with everyone in your life; they typically to one or two people.

What is a good age to get a hamster?

Try to find out the age of your hamster, and adopt one that is as young as possible—around 6 weeks old is best. If any of the hamsters in the same cage—or even at the same store—seem ill, resist the temptation to adopt from there.

Are hamsters good pets for 11 year olds?

Are mice, gerbils, chinchillas, and hamsters good pets for kids? No. These sort of "pocket pets" are fuzzy and small, so you might think they'll be great for your children, who are also small.

Do hamsters know their names?

Hamsters are intelligent creatures who can even learn their name. If you talk to your hamster and use their name frequently enough to get them used to hearing it, they might even learn to come when called. A hamster's teeth are constantly growing.

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.

Do hamsters get periods?

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