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Hamsters can almost be found in any good pet stores. An alternative is to purchase your hamster from a knowledgeable private breeder or hobbyist Tips for Buying a Hamster:
1) A knowledgeable and responsible breeder will naturally advise you, but if you're unsure, bring along someone who is familiar with hamsters.
2) Observe the hamsters in the late afternoons, they are more lively then.
3) Select a hamster about 3-4 weeks old. Young hamsters are easier to hand tame.
4) Look for possible signs of illness or injury. Don't select a sick hamster. A healthy hamster has a smooth coat, bright eyes, dry nose and a clean anus.
5) The sex you choose is not important unless you decide on pairing. It is relatively easier to introduce a younger female to an older male hamster.
6) To differentiate between the sexes, observe the longer distance between the anal opening and the genital opening of all male hamsters compared to the females. In a sexually matured male ( from 4th week onwards ), the testes are very recognizable at the rear end of his body. |