There are three types of hamsters commonly kept as pets: The Syrian Hamster, Russian Hamster, and the Chinese Hamster.

The Syrian Hamster is the hamster of choice for most hamster owners. It is an animal that functions fine being alone, so it should have its own cage. It makes a great pet and it is lots of fun to watch.

The Russian Hamster is a dwarf hamster. They stay rather small and they like to live together - either two of the same sex or as a pair. A pair can produce a lifter of babies every eighteen days, so think carefully before deciding on a pair. There are two species of Russian hamsters commonly kept as pets. The more common and generally larger animal is the Campbell, and the other is the Winter White. Both species have several colour variations.

The Chinese Hamster likes to live in pairs or small groups. They are slightly longer and thinner than Russian hamsters. The babies develop at about the same rate as Russian hamsters. There are already two or three colour variations available.

All three types of hamsters make good pets. They are very easy to look after and everything you need can bought at any pet shop. A wide selection of cages are available, from the simple plastic tray and wire top to the totally enclosed plastic type complete with tubes.