How Much Does a Dwarf Hamster Cost?

Dwarf hamsters are one of the most popular breeds of hamsters kept as pets in the United States of America. They are a small species primarily found in desert places across the world and vary from other hamsters in that they prefer to live in small groups rather than alone. They make reasonably manageable pets and require simple care and small efforts to keep them happy and comfortable.

The Average Cost of a Dwarf Hamster

Dwarf hamsters cost between $4 and $20. However, they can cost as much as $50 if purchased from a breeder. You can also find free hamsters if you’re willing to adopt.

These hamsters reach a maximum of 3 inches (7.62 centimeters) in height, and their prices may vary due to the animal’s age or markings.

Although dwarf hamsters live for only about two to three years and weigh about 4 ounces (113.4 grams) when fully grown, they make great pets and will be excellent companions for as long as you have them.

Where Can I Get a Dwarf Hamster?

Dwarf hamsters are cheap and can be easily purchased by several means. However, you may spend less money overall if you buy a hamster cage and other pet necessities while purchasing your hamster.

You can get dwarf hamsters from pet stores and breeders. You can also get them at more affordable prices by adopting them from pet shelters or for free from pet-owners looking for a new home for their hamster.  You can also buy dwarf hamsters at online pet stores like Petco and PetSmart.

Online pet stores are convenient choices when purchasing pets and offer fantastic deals when buying other necessities. However, pet shelters may be a better alternative as they provide animals that need homes and families.

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Is Owning a Hamster Expensive?

Many first-time pet owners may be unsure about starting with hamsters as first pets. And although hamsters are usually recommended because of their size and the amount of maintenance required to keep them comfortable, some people may worry about how much they cost to own.

Owning a hamster isn’t usually expensive. On average, a hamster is comparatively less expensive than a dog or cat and requires no vaccinations, little entertainment, cheap food, and few visits to the veterinarian. The total cost of owning most pet hamsters is $400 to $600 per year.

This estimation also covers necessary pieces of equipment and supplies that your pet hamster may need during their time with you.

Materials Your Hamsters May Need in the Hamster Cage

Hamster cages are homes and require a few odds and ends to help make your pet feel comfortable. These supplies include:

• Exercise wheels
• Chew toys
• A food dish
• Hamster treats
• Hamster food
• A nesting bed
• Materials for bedding and nesting

Let’s look at these in more detail.

Check out, How Much Does a Hamster Cage Cost?

An Exercise Wheel

Exercise wheels are synonymous with hamsters and provide them with needed physical activity and entertainment. I recommend purchasing the Niteangel Super-Silent Exercise Wheel retailing on Amazon for your pet hamster. It’s a good option because it’s durable, comes in many colors, and is quiet.

Chew Toys

It’s essential that you keep enough hamster-friendly chew toys in your pet’s habitat, as they will gnaw on practically anything to keep their teeth filed to a manageable level.

Chew toys like the Wild Harvest P-84127 Colored Wood Chews enable interactive play and chewing delight for your hamster. Plus, they’re inexpensive and come five to a pack.

A Water Bottle

The Kaytee Clear Water Bottle is a suitable water bottle for small animals. It can fit in your hamster’s cage and holds about 4 oz (118.29 milliliters) of water. This capacity is sufficient to keep your hamster hydrated for up to a day.

A Food Dish

Small pets like hamsters need unique dishes for feeding. These dishes are designed to help them eat without turning over. The Living World Ergonomic Small Animal Food Dish is an excellent choice to get for your pet hamster as it’s sturdy and doesn’t cost too much.

Read Why Is My Hamster Shaking a Lot

How Do You Keep a Hamster Healthy and Happy?

Hamsters generally need a loving home and food to feel comfortable and safe. And since purchasing one is easy enough, you may encounter very few snags with them as pets.

However, it helps to know some essential tips on keeping your pet hamster healthy and happy.

It is good to have a basic idea of what you’re committing yourself to, even though keeping a hamster as a pet isn’t challenging.

Here are a few tips to keep your hamster healthy and happy:

• Feed your hamster from a dish.
• Avoid feeding leftovers to hamsters.
• Use natural materials to make bedding for your pet hamster.
• Do not bathe or groom your hamster as they groom themselves.

Additionally, you should supplement your pet’s food with vegetables and fruits to help give them balanced nutrition, and be sure to clean its cage weekly to keep it healthy and comfortable. Ensuring your hamster has a wheel or some form of daily exercise is also encouraged, and it doesn’t hurt to take him to the vet for a routine checkup at least once a year.

Finally, remember that hamsters require gentle handling and may not be suitable pets for young kids. They also bite and chew on things often and need plenty of toys to keep their teeth occupied.

Hamsters do not need much care, and as long as they receive enough exercise, they will be healthy, adorable, and cuddly.

Related Hamster articles:

• Why Is My Hamster Not Moving?
• How Long Can You Leave a Hamster Alone?
• Why Is My Hamster Squeaking?
• Why Is My Hamster Biting the Cage
• What Does a Dead Hamster Look Like?

Key Takeaways

Hamsters are cheap pets to buy and own and make excellent pets for first-time pet owners. They come in various breeds, but the dwarf hamster is one of the most popular. Dwarf hamsters cost between $4 to $20, and this price is influenced by the place of purchase and other factors. Generally, hamster cages cost between $10 to $100.