🐇 Small Pets

Hamster

Tiny, nocturnal and fun to watch.

Syrian hamsters are solitary, so they live alone. They are most active at night and enjoy burrowing, running and stuffing their cheek pouches.

Lifespan2–3 years
SizeTiny · 4–7 oz
Care levelBeginner
Typical cost$20–40 / month
Great for
Older kidsNight owlsSmall spacesSolitaryCuriousNocturnal
Hamster

Photo: Adamjennison111 at English Wikipedia · CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

At least 450 sq in of floor space with 6+ inches of bedding for burrowing, and a solid 10–12 inch wheel.

Quality hamster mix or lab blocks plus small portions of fresh vegetables.

Large wheel and scatter-feeding for foraging.

Self-grooming; provide a sand bath.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Wet tail (diarrhea)
  • Overgrown teeth
  • Tumors
  • Respiratory infections
  • Cheek pouch impaction
Veterinary care

Vet visits

An exotics vet visit after adoption and whenever something seems off.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.