Can a 12 Year Old Have a Hamster?

When I was 12 years old, I begged my parents for a pet. I wanted a dog, a cat, a bird, a snake, a turtle, you name it.

But my parents were hesitant, they said that I was too young to take care of a pet and that I would lose interest in it after a few weeks. So, I did what any 12-year-old would do, I tricked them.

I told my parents that I had won a hamster in a school raffle, I even went as far as making a fake certificate to prove it.

They fell for it and let me keep the “hamster” (which was just a stuffed animal). I named him Harry and for a whole month, I took care of him, fed him, and even made him a little hamster house out of a shoebox.

But one day, the truth came out. My little brother, who was only 5 at the time, found Harry hidden under my bed and asked my parents why the hamster wasn’t moving.

They finally realized that I had tricked them and took Harry away. I was devastated but also relieved that I didn’t have to take care of a real hamster.

So, can a 12-year-old have a hamster? The answer is yes, but with a few conditions.

The Responsibilities of Hamster Ownership

First and foremost, owning a hamster is a big responsibility. These little furballs need daily care and attention, which includes feeding, cleaning their cage, and providing them with fresh water.

They also need to be exercised, which means taking them out of their cage and letting them run around.

If you’re a 12-year-old, it’s important to make sure that you have the time and energy to take care of a hamster. If you’re not willing to put in the work, then a hamster may not be the best pet for you.

The Cost of Hamster Ownership

Another thing to consider is the cost of owning a hamster. These little critters may be small, but they still need a decent sized cage, food, bedding, and toys.

All of these things can add up and if you’re on a tight budget, a hamster may not be the best choice.

Before you decide to get a hamster, it’s important to make sure you can afford all the necessary supplies. And don’t forget that vet bills can add up too.

Better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.

The Fun Stuff

Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff. Hamsters are super cute and can be a lot of fun to play with. They’re also very low maintenance, which means you don’t have to spend all your free time taking care of them.

There are also a ton of different breeds of hamsters, each with their own unique look and personality. You can choose from a fluffy Syrian hamster or a sleek and speedy Dwarf hamster. It’s like choosing a new best friend.

FAQ

Can a 12-year-old handle the responsibility of a hamster?</

It depends on the individual. Some 12-year-olds may be mature enough to handle the responsibilities of owning a hamster, while others may not be ready.

It’s important for a 12-year-old to understand the daily care and attention that a hamster needs and to be willing to put in the work.

How much does it cost to own a hamster?

The cost of owning a hamster can vary, but on average it can cost around $100-200 for initial set up and around $30-50 per month for food and supplies.

It’s important to factor in the cost of a cage, food, bedding, toys, and possible vet bills before deciding to get a hamster.

Are hamsters good pets for kids?

Hamsters can make great pets for kids, but it’s important for the child to have a responsible adult to help with their care.

They’re small, low maintenance, and can be a lot of fun to play with. Plus, they come in a variety of breeds, each with their own unique look and personality.

Can I keep a hamster with other pets?

It’s best to keep a hamster by itself, as it can be territorial and may become aggressive towards other pets.

Also, other pets may not understand how fragile and delicate a hamster is and may accidentally harm it.

My Bottom Line

In short, a 12-year-old can have a hamster, but it’s important to consider the responsibilities and costs that come with owning one.

It’s also important for a 12-year-old to have a responsible adult to help with their care. As long as you’re willing to put in the work and can afford the cost, a hamster can make a great pet.

Remember, owning a pet is a big responsibility and should be taken seriously. So, before you go out and buy a hamster, make sure you’re ready for the commitment.

But hey, if you do decide to get one, just make sure to keep it real and don’t try to pull a fast one on your parents like I did.