When I was 12 years old, I begged my parents for a pet hamster. I had always been fascinated by these cute little rodents, and I was convinced that having one of my own would be the best thing ever.
After months of pleading and promising to take care of it myself, my parents finally caved and got me one. And let me tell you, it was the best decision they ever made.
I named him Jerry and he quickly became my best friend. We did everything together: played, ate, and even slept in the same room.
But as much as I loved Jerry, I quickly realized that not all hamsters are created equal. Some are better suited for kids than others, and it’s important to choose the right one for your child.
In this article, I’ll share with you all the information you need to choose the best hamster for your 12-year-old.
From breeds to cage size and everything in between, I’ve got you covered. So, keep reading and let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Hamster Breeds: The Lowdown
When it comes to choosing the perfect hamster for your child, the first thing to consider is the breed. There are several different breeds of hamsters, each with their own unique characteristics.
The most common breeds are:
- Syrian hamsters
- Dwarf hamsters
- Chinese hamsters
- Russian hamsters
Syrian hamsters, also known as “teddy bear” hamsters, are the largest breed and can grow up to 7 inches long.
They’re also the most docile of the bunch, making them a great choice for children. They’re also pretty low maintenance, as they can be kept in a small cage and don’t require a lot of exercise.
Dwarf hamsters, on the other hand, are much smaller and can grow up to 4 inches long. They’re also a lot more active than Syrian hamsters and require a larger cage and more exercise.
They’re also a bit more high maintenance and can be a bit nippy, so they may not be the best choice for very young children.
Chinese and Russian hamsters are also available, but they are less common and not as well suited for children.
Size Matters: Choosing the Right Cage
Once you’ve chosen the breed of hamster, the next step is to choose a cage. And when it comes to cages, size matters.
Syrian hamsters should be kept in a cage that’s at least 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches tall. Dwarf hamsters, on the other hand, require a cage that’s at least 18 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches tall.
It’s also important to note that the cage should be made of a safe material, such as plastic or metal, and should have a solid bottom with a bedding of some kind, such as aspen shavings.
Hamster-Proofing Your Home
Before bringing your new hamster home, it’s important to make sure your house is safe for them.
Hamsters are curious creatures and will explore everything, so you’ll want to make sure to remove any potential hazards, such as small objects or plants that may be toxic to them.
It’s also a good idea to block off any areas of your home that you don’t want your hamster to have access to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I keep more than one hamster in a cage?
A: It’s not recommended to keep more than one hamster in a cage, as they can be territorial and may fight. It’s best to keep them in separate cages to ensure their safety and well-being.
Q: How often do I need to clean my hamster’s cage?
A: You should clean your hamster’s cage once a week, or more often if necessary. This includes changing the bedding, cleaning the food dish, and cleaning the water bottle.
Q: How much exercise does a hamster need?
A: Hamsters need at least an hour of exercise per day, so make sure to provide them with a wheel or other toys to keep them active.
The Bottom Line: Hamsters Make the Best Pets for Kids
When it comes down to it, hamsters make the best pets for kids. They’re easy to take care of, low maintenance, and incredibly cute.
Just make sure to choose the right breed, provide them with a safe cage, and hamster-proof your home. With a little bit of love and care, your child will have a furry friend for years to come.