So, let me tell you a little story about my first experience buying a hamster. I was in college and I was feeling a little lonely in my dorm room.
I had always wanted a pet and I thought, “Hey, a hamster is small, easy to take care of, and won’t make too much noise.”
I found a pet store near campus and I went in, all excited to pick out my new furry friend. I saw a little cage with the cutest little hamster in it, and I asked the guy working there how old it was.
He told me it was only a few weeks old. “Awesome,” I thought, “I’ll be the first person it gets attached to.” I paid for the little guy and brought him back to my dorm. I named him Jerry.
Fast forward a week later, I woke up one morning and Jerry had passed away in his sleep. I was devastated and didn’t understand why.
I went back to the pet store and asked the guy what had happened. He told me that hamsters that young are delicate and can easily die if not taken care of properly.
I felt like an idiot for not doing more research before buying Jerry. I learned my lesson, and now I want to share my experience with you so you don’t make the same mistake I did.
The age at which you should buy a hamster is important for the health and well-being of the animal.
Table of Contents
Why Age Matters When Buying a Hamster
When you buy a hamster, you want to make sure that you’re getting a healthy and well-adjusted animal.
Hamsters that are too young may not be fully developed, and may not be able to handle the stress of being in a new environment.
Additionally, young hamsters may not be fully weaned from their mother and may not be eating solid food yet. This can lead to health problems down the line.
What’s the Ideal Age for Buying a Hamster?
The ideal age for buying a hamster is between 8 and 12 weeks old. At this age, the hamster is fully developed, has been weaned from its mother, and is eating solid food.
Additionally, hamsters that are 8-12 weeks old are more likely to be socialized and better adjusted to living with humans.
They’re also more likely to be litter trained, which can make things a lot easier for you in the long run.
How to Tell if a Hamster is 8-12 Weeks Old
It can be tricky to tell exactly how old a hamster is, but there are a few things you can look for to get an idea.
- Teeth: Hamsters’ teeth grow quickly, so if the hamster’s teeth are well-developed, it’s likely to be at least 8 weeks old.
- Size: Hamsters grow rapidly, so if the hamster is larger than a ping pong ball, it’s likely to be at least 8 weeks old.
- Ears: Hamsters’ ears should be fully opened by 8 weeks old.
FAQ
Can I buy a younger hamster?
While it’s not ideal, you can buy a younger hamster if you’re prepared for the extra care and attention that may be required.
Just keep in mind that the health and well-being of the animal should be your top priority.
What if I can’t find a hamster that’s 8-12 weeks old?
If you can’t find a hamster that’s 8-12 weeks old, it’s best to wait until you can find one at the right age.
Buying a younger or older hamster can come with extra challenges and may not be in the best interest of the animal.
What should I do if I suspect my hamster is too young?
If you suspect your hamster is too young, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian or a reputable breeder to get a professional opinion.
They’ll be able to give you more information on the age and health of the animal.
My Conclusion
So, there you have it folks, the 411 on how old a hamster should be when you buy one.
Remember, the age of the hamster is crucial for the health and well-being of the animal, and it’s important to make sure you’re getting a healthy and well-adjusted pet.
Don’t be like me and make the mistake of buying a hamster that’s too young. Do your research, and give your new furry friend the best chance at a happy and healthy life.
And one more thing, don’t name your hamster Jerry, it’s bad luck.