How to Pick a Healthy Hamster

Hamsters are adorable pets loved by children and adults. They are relatively easy to care for. To fully enjoy your hamster, it is important to pick a healthy one. Here are some tips to pick a healthy hamster.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Visit the pet store in the evening when they are more likely to be more active and energetic, since hamsters are nocturnal animals.
2. Observe their general behavior and overall condition.
3. Look for a hamster that is active, alert, energetic and playful.
4. Tap lightly on the tank and see if it responds.
5. Check the coat and make sure that is nice and smooth, not dull.
6. Look at its eyes. They should be bright and clear, not watery.
7. Check its breathing. A healthy hamster's breathing is clear and there should be no discharge from its nose. The area around the nostrils should be dry and not have a crusty look.
8. Check its behind. Make sure it is clean. If it appears wet or dirty, the hamster may have diarrhea, which is a symptom of wet tail. This is very difficult to cure. Bring this to the attention of the pet attendant immediately, as it is contagious and the other hamsters in the cage may become affected.
9. Pick a hamster with a broad and round body. This indicates that it is eating well. Avoid hamsters that have lumps or bumps on their body.
10. Have fun picking your hamster!

Tips & Warnings

• Observe how the hamster interacts with other hamsters. This will tell you something about its personality.
• Ask the pet attendant if you may handle the hamster you are considering selecting.