Short Haired Hamster

• Active at night
• Ideal for children 8 & up
• Solitary
• High energy level
• Lives 2 to 3 years

Hamsters' friendly nature and ability to become a true member of the family have made them one of the most popular small pets. They can learn to enjoy human interaction, but they're not crazy about other hamsters, so only one hamster per habitat. They like to run and play at night and sleep during the day, so they may be active and noisy after dark.

Things to remember

Easily startled
Be careful, if she gets scared, she may bite. Take extra care when awakening her.

Lifting & handling
Handle your hamster gently -- scoop her up in both hands and hold her with cupped hands so she'll feel safe and secure.

Special needs
Your hamster's front teeth never stop growing -- so she needs lots of healthy things to chew on like treats and chew sticks.

Exercise
Hamsters have tons of energy and need to run on a wheel in their habitat, or in an exercise ball every day.

Nutrition
Choose a fortified diet appropriate for hamsters.

More information
Visit our Hamster guide to learn more about the traits and behaviors that make hamsters great pets, plus find care information and the products you'll need to keep them healthy and happy.

PetSmart offers several hamster species. Here's some information to help you make an educated decision about which species of hamster will best fit your family.

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