by Dina Sullivan

Created on: May 14, 2009   Last Updated: May 15, 2009

I've always loved hamsters as pets. I had one when I was little, I got so much joy from him, it's sad to say that some people say they don't like hamsters. The more attention you give them the more tame they are. And you can play with them and watch them develop their own little personalities.

Hamsters are nocturnal and sleep most of the day. Most of their activity is at night, when everyone else in the house is sleeping. So if you don't have him in a secluded spot (warm and without drafts is ideal) at night, your probably aren't going to get a good night's rest. Unless you are a heavy sleeper.

Hamsters like and do need exercise so getting a wheel for his cage is a good idea. You can also purchase a hamster ball for your hamster to roll around during the day. Just make sure he is supervised so he won't be a target for other pets in the house like cats or dogs. They might think that your little fuzzy guy is a fun thing to try a roll around. And then you will have a very dizzy hamster.

One thing I did learn about hamsters is that they don't do too well with roommates. They are mostly solitary dwellers, and if you have multiple hamsters in the same cage, they will end up fighting. Even though it might be tempting to have more than one hamster, that probably isn't a good idea, at least not in the same cage. Having them in separate cages is fine.

Hamsters need a cage with sawdust bedding, pine, or dry cedar bedding. Plenty of water in a hamster bottle, and a good supply of hamster food. Hamsters also like salt licks and blocks to chew on. I remember playing with my hamster with popcorn or a string, because they have slits on the side of their cheeks like pouches. The use these pouches to fill up on food so they can carry it to their nests. My hamster would stuff so much popcorn in his pouches, his head ended up looking bigger than his body. And with the string he would stuff all of it in his cheeks and I would have the other end and then I would pull it out. So Funny!

Hamsters are great pets and lot's of fun. Just make sure you give him the proper care and attention that they need to be healthy and happy. Hamsters are less expensive and less hassle then dogs or cats. Don't get me wrong I love cats and dogs. but having smaller children in the house, a hamster is a great way to go. it will teach them responsibly for caring for a pet. And will bring lot's of joy to the family and everyone can take part in the care and the fun of hamsters.

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