PetSmart Hamster Buying Guide & Prices 2026
Hamsters make popular first pets due to their compact size and lively nature. PetSmart offers several varieties suited for beginners.
PetSmart carries several hamster varieties, each with slightly different personalities, sizes, and care needs, so even within the hamster category, there’s some choice involved.
Prices start around $18 and go up to $25, depending on the type.
This article serves as a complete PetSmart hamster buying guide, detailing available breeds, current prices, and key care needs.
Key Points
- PetSmart’s hamster buying guide covers popular breeds like Syrian and dwarf varieties, with prices ranging $18-$25 per animal.
- Key factors include solitary or social housing needs, nocturnal behavior, and basic setup costs for habitats and food.
- For detailed care, refer to PetSmart’s resources to ensure a healthy pet experience.
Types of Hamsters Available at PetSmart
PetSmart stocks both Syrian and dwarf hamsters, each with distinct traits.
Syrian hamsters
Syrian hamsters come in short-haired and long-haired forms. Short-haired ones have smooth coats in colors like golden or black. Long-haired versions need occasional brushing to prevent mats.
➔ Syrian hamsters, often called golden or teddy bear hamsters, grow to 5-7 inches long. They prefer solitary living to avoid fights.
Dwarf hamsters
Dwarf hamsters stay smaller, at 2-4 inches, and some types can share space if same sex. Common options include Winter White, Roborovski, and Russian dwarfs. These active rodents suit families with older kids.
➔ Dwarf breeds show more social behavior. Winter Whites change coat color in winter, while Roborovskis move quickly and entertain watchers.
All hamsters live 1.5 to 2 years on average.
Current Hamster Prices at PetSmart
Hamsters are one of the more affordable pets you can buy at PetSmart, which is part of what makes them so appealing for first-time pet owners.
➔ Prices generally range from $18 to $25, but the exact amount you’ll pay depends on a couple of factors, mainly the breed and your location.
| Type Of Hamster | Price |
|---|---|
Short-haired Syrian |
|
Long-haired Syrians |
|
Winter White dwarfs |
|
Fancy bear hamsters |
|
Roborovski/ Russian dwarfs |
|
One thing I always remind new hamster owners is that the purchase price is just the beginning. You’ll also need to budget for a cage, bedding, food, a water bottle, a wheel, and other accessories.
For the most accurate and current pricing at your nearest store, check the PetSmart website or call your local location directly.
Choosing the Right Hamster for Your Home
Not all hamsters are the same, and picking the right one for your lifestyle makes a big difference in how enjoyable the experience will be for both you and your new pet.
Before you walk into PetSmart and pick the cutest one you see, it’s worth taking a few minutes to think about what kind of hamster actually fits your home and daily routine.
Notice Title
- Hamsters are nocturnal and most active at night, so they suit quieter households
- Syrian hamsters prefer living alone and need regular handling to stay tame
- Dwarf hamsters can live in groups but may show aggression if not monitored
- Healthy hamsters should have bright eyes, clean fur, and active movement
- PetSmart offers a 14-day guarantee for refunds or replacements if health issues arise
Taking the time to match the right breed to your lifestyle sets you and your hamster up for a much better experience from day one.
Age matters too. PetSmart sells young hamsters, ready for homes after weaning.
Setting Up a Hamster Habitat
Getting your hamster’s habitat right from the start is one of the most important things you can do as a new owner.
A well-set-up enclosure doesn’t just keep your hamster safe it directly affects their health, happiness, and behavior.
➔ PetSmart recommends wire cages or glass tanks with secure lids.
➔ Minimum size: 24×12 inches for dwarfs, larger for Syrians.
➔ Add bedding like aspen shavings for burrowing. Include a solid wheel to prevent foot injuries, plus hideouts and chew toys.
➔ Water bottles and food dishes complete the setup.
Costs for starters: Cages from $30-$100, bedding $10, wheel $15. Buy these at PetSmart for matched supplies.
Daily Hamster Care and Feeding
Taking care of a hamster on a daily basis is pretty straightforward, but getting the diet right is one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy long term.
Brands like Oxbow Essentials provide complete nutrition. Feed 1-2 tablespoons daily, with treats like carrots or apples sparingly.
Clean the habitat weekly to avoid odors and health risks. Spot clean daily for waste. Handle gently to build trust, but wash hands first.
Common Issues
Common issues include wet tail, a bacterial infection treatable by vets. Watch for diarrhea or lethargy. Regular vet checkups extend life.
Getting into a consistent daily feeding routine keeps your hamster healthy and also gives you a chance to observe them up close which is a great way to spot any early signs of illness.
Benefits and Limitations of Owning a Hamster
Hamsters make great pets for the right person, but like any animal, they come with both upsides and downsides.
Pros
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Small size makes them ideal
- Suitable starter pets for families
- Require relatively simple housing setup
Cons
- Short lifespan
- Nocturnal habits can disturb sleepers
- May bite if handled improperly
- Need supervision during child interactions
Allergies are possible. Some people are allergic to hamster dander or the bedding materials used in their enclosure, which is worth considering before buying.
Hamsters offer low-maintenance companionship. Their small size suits apartments, and they entertain with wheel-running antics.
But short lifespans mean brief bonds. Nocturnal habits disrupt light sleepers. Allergies to bedding or fur affect some owners.
Families with kids over 8 find them ideal starter pets. Supervise interactions to prevent bites from startled hamsters.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying
Many new owners underestimate space needs. Small travel carriers won’t suffice long-term. Choose enclosures with room for activity.
Many starter kits sold at pet stores look cute and convenient but are genuinely too small for a hamster to live comfortably long-term.
Overfeeding leads to obesity. Stick to measured portions. Ignore myths about group housing Syrians, they fight.
Research breeds before buying. Dwarfs escape tiny bar gaps, so select cages accordingly.
