Do you want to adopt a hamster but you don’t know how much it might cost you? Don’t panic, we will help you clarify things. Indeed, adopting a hamster is not a decision to be taken lightly, so make sure to do your research before diving in. You need to take into account the purchase of the hamster, as well as the cost of its daily care. So how much should you plan to adopt a hamster?
Buying a hamster: how much does it cost?
Hamsters are one of the most popular pets because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to care for. When you buy one, the average price of a hamster is between 10 and 20 euros, either at a pet store or from a breeder. This price can vary depending on the breed and the age of the hamster and its place of purchase. The most expensive hamsters can cost up to 100 euros.
| Hamster Russe | Hamster Syrien ou doré | Hamster de Campbell | Hamster Roborovski | Hamster Chinois | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prix | Entre 5€ et 15€ | Entre 5€ et 10€ | Entre 15€ et 20€ | Entre 5€ et 10€ | Entre 5€ et 10€ |
Some tips:
- Dwarf hamsters are generally the most expensive, as they are rarer than common hamsters.
- Male hamsters are also a bit more expensive than females (knowing the sex of my hamster), as they are considered to be more docile.
- Adult hamsters are cheaper than young hamsters, as they are easier to breed.
The costs of equipment
The cost of caring for a hamster is generally quite low. Seeds and hay make up the largest part of their diet, and these foods are relatively inexpensive. Hamsters also need a cage, a water bottle, and a feeding bowl, but these accessories are not very costly.
The hamster is a popular pet, especially among children. They are generally easy to care for and inexpensive. Hamsters require a cage, food, and water. Owners should also budget for veterinary costs, such as vaccinations and annual check-ups. On average, hamsters cost between 20 and 30 euros per month.
The cage
For a cage suitable for the size of the animal, including a water bottle for drinking, budget around 50 to 80 euros for the entire setup.
Toys
When it comes to finding the ideal toy for your hamster, price is often a secondary concern. However, think about how much you are willing to spend on your furry friend. The price of hamster toys can vary from a few euros to over 100 euros, depending on the type of toy and the materials used.
For example, a simple wooden chew block may cost about 5€, while a more elaborate hamster playset with tunnels and climbing structures can cost over 50€. Ultimately, the best way to determine how much to spend on a hamster toy is to consider your budget and your pet’s needs. A simple wooden block can be just as enjoyable for your hamster as an expensive playset, so there’s no need to break the bank.
As an example, other toys like a ball will cost you around 5€, a wheel 5€ to 15€, a slide approximately 15€, and a climbing wall will be around 25€.
A house
Its little corner, where it can either play or rest, usually made of plastic or wood: it will cost you from 10€ to 30€ depending on the quality of the house! (yes, even property prices are rising…. even for hamsters!)
Food
The diet of a hamster mainly consists of hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of pellets. Hay is the most important part of a hamster’s diet and should be available at all times. Fresh vegetables can be given as treats, but should not make up more than 10% of their diet. A small handful of pellets should be provided daily to supply essential nutrients. The cost of hay and pellets varies depending on the type of pet store, but is generally around 10 euros per month. Fresh vegetables can be purchased cheaply at most supermarkets. Overall, the cost of feeding a hamster is relatively low.
Additionally, you should add the price of a bowl in which to serve its food, costing from 5€ to 7€.
Care
The cost of caring for a hamster is not very high. You should budget around 20 to 40 euros per year for vaccinations and deworming, as well as routine check-ups at the vet. This of course applies to the most common procedures at your veterinarian. For more serious illnesses or surgical interventions, the costs will be quite different.
Bedding
There are different types of bedding for hamsters on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The costs of bedding are therefore highly variable, ranging from 10€ to 40€ per year, depending on the chosen bedding and the quantities ordered.
Cotton bedding is a great option if you are looking for absorbent and comfortable bedding for your hamster. It is also easy to clean and inexpensive. However, it can be a bit dusty and needs to be changed regularly.
Sand bedding is another popular option. It is often used for rabbits, but can also be used for hamsters. It is absorbent and easy to clean, but can be a bit dusty.
Paper bedding is another absorbent and easy-to-clean option. It is also quite comfortable for hamsters. However, it is not as durable as other types of bedding and must be changed more frequently.
Finally, wood shavings bedding is an absorbent and comfortable option, but it can be a bit dusty. It also needs to be changed regularly.
There is no perfect bedding for all hamsters, as each animal is different and has its own preferences. I strongly encourage you to experiment with different types of bedding to find the one that best suits your hamster.