PetSmart/Petco hamster ages.

[Pearl Hamletry]

Originally Posted by tjherman

Like others have said, some are worse than others. Overcrowding, both genders kept together, newborn pups in with adults, wet tail, dirty cages, little to no quarantine... I've had bad experiences with mom and pop stores and chain stores.

The problem with the age of hamsters in US pet stores is that they purposefully breed the Syrians smaller. The smaller size makes them look like babies longer. Plus, the stores don't always seem to know how old the hamsters are either or are reluctant to tell you. The only way to know the actual age is to get your hamster from a reputable breeder, which the US is severely lacking!!

My local chain stores are hit or miss. I keep disinfectant right inside the house to spray down everything that comes in from a pet store.

The best thing I can suggest to do is ask who they use for a vet and check them out. I asked my local Petco which vet they use -- I found a very good vet for all my animals.

Hi Tamara -

I was just about to reply to this thread saying the same things you said, lol! I agree both small and commercial pet stores are not good places to get hamsters and the U.S. is certainly lack in breeders... I am glad our lil group is breeding healthy hams!