Help, I dont no if...(pictures inc) - Page 2

Minicooper · 08-02-2006, 01:01 PM

just checked yes he is a female, I MEAN SHE.

SnuggleHam · 08-02-2006, 01:28 PM

minicooper106600, its a sad but true fact that most pet stores dont know anything about the animals they sell. /Never/ count on a pet store employee to be able to tell the sex of any animal, especially rodents for that matter.

One common story you often hear about is the “male” hamster some one brings home and then ends up having 10 pink babies because it was really a female and pregnant.

Its also our responsibility to research about a new pets thoroughly before purchasing one.

Minicooper · 08-02-2006, 01:57 PM

The pet shop I got hammis from, was in a state, there where about 6 hamsters in a tiny box all on top of each other sleeping, If the pet owner didnt no if hammis was a male or female, i bet he didnt no that the other hammies where male or female so i could, of been taking home hammis and in couple of weeks time she could of been having pups!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

.........and i if she did i wouldnt of been able to cope, as last time i took hammie to the vet for a check up it cost £20!! and i dont get pocket money, i ownly got hammis with my bday money!

souffle · 08-02-2006, 03:41 PM

Most pet shops do not have a clue how to sex animals. Often they do not even try to sex them in case they are bitten. Most buy in a large number from a mass producer and just stick them in a cage together till they sell. That is why it is always better, if possible, to get a pet from a breeder where you know the history of the animal and can be sure of the sex. That said, it can be quite hard to tell with 4wk old youngsters who are wiggling around so it may have been a genuine mistake. Females can breed from around 4wks so we always separate into single sex groups at that age.
I would wait for quite some time until you are knowledgeable and experienced before considering breeding. There is a very good article-Think before you breed in the articles section. Hammis is too old for a first litter now anyway. Females should be 4-6 months for a first litter and maybe a second at 8-10 months. After that its retiral for them. Do you think of her any differently now you know she is a girl? They are both equally sweet so spoil your little lady friend to bits!
Why not talk to your parents and show them how mature you would like to be and ask them for a small amount of pocket money which you would like to save for any emergency vet bills Hammis might require. If you stuck to your promise they would surely see that you are being responsible and considering the welfare of your pet.

Minicooper · 08-03-2006, 01:35 AM

No,i dont think anything less of hammis now I no she a female, but there was no breeders in my area in my local newspaper.

souffle · 08-03-2006, 02:19 AM

Glad to hear that! If you ever decide to get another hamster you can always call on the forum members to point you in the direction of the nearest breeder in your area or you can find details on the breeder listings. Are you in the UK?

Minicooper · 08-03-2006, 03:29 AM

yes,
might get a guinea pig, do u know any rescue centres or breeders in my area.............................................. .........

I live in Kent, East Sussex. thanks