So You Want a Hamster
Where Do I find a Hamster?
There are many places to buy or adopt a hamster. You can buy one from a pet store or adopt one from a shelter or maybe even get one from a local breeder. I got mine from a small family owned pet shop. Those pet store are the best place to purchase them because they get handled more and are nicer.
Choosing a Healthy Hamster
The hamster should be healthy with bright eyes, a wet nose, clean shiny coat and be energetic. Choose the one with the curious nature. If it attacks the pet employee's hand then most likely it's aggressive, and you shouldn't buy it. The hamster should be moving with ease and its breathing should be normal no wheezing or heavy breathing. Check that the cage and surroundings are clean. Try to buy the youngest hamster possible so you have more time to bond and a longer life with your pet.
Boy or Girl?
Boys can be less aggressive but cannot be cages with other males. Girls are a little more aggressive and sometimes go into heat. When they go into heat, they let off an extreme musky smell that isn't very pleasant. That will happen 1 to 2 times a week. Females can sometimes live together in peace if they are from the same litter and are put together when they are young. Males are solitary unless you are breeding but please don't breed unless you are experienced and know what you are doing.
