Hamsters have got to be some of the cutest pets in the world – their tiny paws and snoots make them almost irresistible. Because of this, it is natural that you will want to give them the best possible care money can buy. They are generally known to be cheap pets for kids and beginners, but the total costs of owning a fuzzball of your own may surprise you.
It costs $400 and $600 to care for a hamster annually. On top of that, there are some other costs, such as buying the hamster, which can range between $5 and $50. Additionally, you’ll have to buy a cage, which is at least $50, and some toys, which can cost around $30 to $50.
In this article, I’ll break down the costs of owning one of those cute fuzzy rodents. I’ll look at the initial costs and the highest monthly costs so you can decide whether a pet hamster is a good choice for you or not.
What Are the Initial Costs of Getting a Hamster?
The initial costs of getting a hamster are the cost of the hamster, the cage, and supplies. Generally, this up-front investment can cost between $85 and $150, although you may be able to find a few other ways to cut costs, such as using DIY toys and finding a hamster that’s free to adopt.
To break down this initial cost, here’s what each component of the purchase will run you on average:
- The hamster ($5 – $50)
- The cage ($50+)
- The supplies ($30 – $50)
Let’s examine each of these and see exactly how much you can expect to pay if you want a hamster.
Read What To Do When You First Get a Hamster
How Much Does a Hamster Cost?
A hamster costs between $5 to $20, although the price may go up for more exotic breeds. Prices of hamsters range widely depending on the hamster type and where you’re getting one.
While it’s possible to get a hamster for literally $0 if you manage to find someone who’s giving away their pet, it’s improbable that you’ll find an offer like this. What’s more, if you don’t know the person, you might get a sick hamster or one with other problems.
Places To Get a Hamster
There are a few places where you can get a hamster.
- Adoption
- Buying from a breeder
- Buying from a pet store
If you’re looking to adopt a hamster, it can cost anywhere between $5 and $50. The price will depend on the type of hamster, its age, and the organization giving it up for adoption. Sometimes, you’ll also get a cage, some toys, or food, which will all be included in the price.
Buying a hamster from a breeder usually costs $5 to $20. That mostly depends on the breed of the hamster. For some more exotic breeds, the price may go up. You likely won’t get anything bu