by Virtually Somewhere

Created on: December 21, 2011   Last Updated: December 22, 2011

Before you consider “Is a hamster a good Christmas present for your child” there are a few aspects that should be considered, not only on behalf of the child but the hamster as well. Hamsters and children, now do they mix well together? This I find to be very debatable.

“Mom, pleeeeeze, I promise to always take care of it and to always do all my chores, homework, all the dishes every night for eternity if you let me have it!”. Is this the sentiment that echoes among young children; in fact I too was one of these children promising my parents the world. When I stop to think about this further I believe every child that I have ever known has wanted to take home that mangy old dog or raggedy flee-bitten kitten, so will the tiny defenseless hamster fall into the same criteria. Just a passing phase, this week but not the next, “I’m bored can I have something new?” The list could go on.

Pets are a special part of childhood; the right pet can capture a child’s imagination and create fond memories that last a lifetime. I remember wanting (and receiving) my desired pet. My mother ended up taking care and cleaning up after it, much to her disgust. So in actual fact the question that should be asked is – “Umm… Do I want a hamster to look after?” Statistically speaking within a few weeks the average child grows weary with the maintenance and responsibility that come with having and owing a pet.

Again I must question “Is a hamster a good Christmas present for a child?” If we were to look at this with a list of pros and cons, would this settle the debate? Well let’s investigate further….

Pros:

Hamsters have that adorable factor, cute and cuddly, with tiny little hairy faces.

Generally hamsters are quite tame and easy to handle.

They also get to know your routines and become quite responsive, which keeps kids interested.

Hamsters are easy to feed and maintain.

Teach children responsibility and nurturing.

Cons:

Hamsters require gentle handling. It may be difficult for children to understand that the hamster is fragile (Minimal cuddling please!)

The hamster initially may need to be handled under adult supervision to protect the hamster from accidental injury.

Hamsters are social creatures and enjoy the company of others.

Hamsters do not enjoy the company of cats.

Ideally hamsters should be kept in pairs and need a large living space (Lounge, TV, Bar, etc).

Smelly.

It dies if not fed.

Hamsters are small which makes them the ideal escape artist, so you must ensure that the hamster’s cage is fully enclosed with no gaps. Ensure their prison is secure.

Due to hamsters only having an average lifespan of between 2 – 4 YEARS the topic of death may arise. (R.I.P. Hamster)

“Is a hamster a good Christmas present for a child?”

Okay, I must admit that it does not look good for the hamster (too many cons).

However if this is something that they really want then the joys will out weigh the cons listed above and may be a chance to allow your child to learn responsibility, develop psychologically and mentally while caring for another living creature.

Otherwise, if still in doubt consider getting a goldfish or pet rock.

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