9 Things to Know Before Getting a Hamster

Thinking about getting a hamster? They’re adorable, relatively low-maintenance, and don’t take up much space — but they’re not a “set it and forget it” pet. Having cared for a few myself, I can tell you: they may be tiny, but they come with their own set of needs.

Here’s what you should really know before bringing one home:

1. Not All Hamsters Are the Same

At the pet store, don’t just pick the cutest one and go. Take a moment to check the enclosure — is it clean? Does the water bottle have fresh water? Do the hamsters look alert and healthy? Dull eyes, lethargy, or dirty cages are red flags.

And yes, be cautious — I’ve seen people accidentally bring home pregnant hamsters. If you don’t want surprise babies, make sure to ask if the hamster is male or female, and ideally go for one kept solo.

2. Cage Setup Matters More Than You Think

A hamster's cage isn’t just a box — it’s their whole world. It needs to be secure (they’re escape artists), well-ventilated, and lined with plenty of safe bedding (avoid pine or cedar shavings). Deep bedding lets them burrow, which is part of their natural behavior.

Also, keep the cage somewhere quiet — hamsters are nocturnal and don’t appreciate being poked during their sleep cycle (which is usually during the day).

3. One Hamster Per Cage — Seriously

Most hamsters are solitary. Even siblings raised together can start fighting as they mature. If you're planning on getting more than one, plan for separate cages from the start. Trust me, the last thing you want is a midnight squeal-fest — or worse, injuries.

4. Diet: Keep It Balanced

Commercial hamster pellets are your go-to, but you can mix in small portions of fruits and veggies (mine loved tiny bits of carrots and apple). Keep treats like seeds to a minimum — they’re high in fat and can lead to picky eating or health issues.

Always provide fresh water. I got into the habit of checking the water bottle every morning when I fed mine.

5. Handle With Care — And Patience

Hamsters may bite if startled, especially when they’re still adjusting. Give them a few days to settle in before reaching in. Once they trust you, they’re much easier to handle, but always be gentle — they’re small and fragile.

I used to scoop mine up with both hands and hold them close to the ground just in case they squirmed. Better safe than sorry!

6. Exercise Is a Must

Hamsters are super active at night. A solid-surface wheel (not wire) is essential — it helps them burn off energy and stay healthy. I also added tunnels and boxes to give them more to explore.

Exercise balls can be fun, too, but only for short, supervised sessions — and make sure they’re well-ventilated and the right size.

7. Know the Signs of Illness

Because hamsters are prey animals, they often hide symptoms until they’re seriously sick. Watch for changes in behavior, hunched posture, messy fur, or weight loss. If something seems off, don’t wait — a vet visit can make a big difference.

When I brought home my first hamster, I kept a little log the first week to track “normal” behavior. That helped a lot later when I had to figure out if something was wrong.

8. Dental Care Is a Real Thing

Hamster teeth never stop growing. They need chew toys or hard food to wear them down naturally. If you notice drooling or a hamster that won’t eat, it might have overgrown teeth — and that requires a vet’s help.

9. Hamsters + House Hazards = Trouble

If your hamster escapes (and they will try), they could chew wires, get stuck under furniture, or worse. Always double-check cage latches and avoid letting them roam unsupervised. I once had to fish mine out from behind the fridge — not fun.

Bottom line? Hamsters can be wonderful little companions, but they need thoughtful care, a secure setup, and a bit of patience — especially in the beginning. If you’re ready for that, you’ll be rewarded with a curious, quirky pet who’s a joy to watch (especially after dark).