Owning a hamster comes with unique joys as well as practical challenges. Here’s a balanced breakdown of its pros and cons:
Pros
Low Cost and Easy to Start
Initial investment is minimal (around ¥50 for the hamster + ¥200 for basic supplies), with monthly food and bedding costing only about ¥30—ideal for students or those on a tight budget.
They require little space: a 47cm basic cage fits neatly in a desk corner, and all you need is extra food and water when traveling.
Therapeutic Value and Low-Effort Interaction
Watching hamsters stuff their cheek pouches or zoom on their wheels is stress-relieving. Their trust—like crawling into your palm or nuzzling your fingers—feels especially heartwarming.
They’re highly independent, perfect for busy people: spend 10 minutes playing with them when you have time, and leave them be when you’re swamped.
Educational Significance
Great as a child’s first pet: daily feeding and cage cleaning foster responsibility, while their 2–3 year lifespan helps kids understand natural life cycles.
Cons
Nocturnal Noise and Schedule Conflicts
Being nocturnal, they’re active at dawn—running on wheels, gnawing cages—noisy enough to disrupt sleep, even with "quiet" equipment.
Forcing them to adjust their schedule causes stress (biting, refusing food).
Health and Care Challenges
A short lifespan of 2–3 years means saying goodbye can be emotionally tough.
Frequent cleaning is a must (daily waste removal, weekly bedding changes); neglect leads to odors or respiratory issues.
Common illnesses like wet tail can cost up to ¥1,000 to treat, and finding vets specializing in small pets is tough.
Behavioral and Safety Risks
Solitary by nature: housing multiple hamsters together guarantees fights, sometimes even fatal ones.
They’re expert escape artists, risking damage to wires or hiding in appliance crevices.
Summary and Recommendations
Best for: Those seeking low-cost comfort, can tolerate nighttime noise, and have patience for cleaning.
Tips to Avoid Regrets: Always house them alone, provide a cage of at least 47cm, use a quiet wheel, and avoid high-sugar/fat snacks.
If the downsides are deal-breakers, consider more interactive alternatives like fish or birds.