In North America there is a divide in the hamster breeding world between ethical and unethical breeders. When looking for your next hamster pet, be on the lookout for the following:
- Breeding unethical and deleterious genes, for example: hairless or partial hairlessness, often called "Chushy". Hairless or partial hairlessness handicaps your hamster, they rely on their fur to regulate their body temperature. Additionally, their skin is prone to irritation, injury, and dryness.
- Lack of transparency about their husbandry - does the breeder readily display pictures of their enclosures? Do they keep their hamsters in appropriately sized enclosures (the bare minimum is 450 sq in of unbroken floor space) and provide 10-12 inch diameter wheels?
- Does the breeder rehome their hamsters prior to the accepted age of 6 weeks?
- How does the breeder advertise their hamsters for adoption? Ethical breeders should use an established website along with an application process.
- Breeders should charge a flat rate for all adoptions. "Rare" colors or patterns do not exist; truly exceptional animals should be held back for breeding.
- The breeder uses terminology such as "teddy bear", "fancy bear", "panda bear", "black bear", and "calico". These terms are incorrect.
- Does the breeder ask you how you plan to house and care for your hamster? Do they ask you about the size of your enclosure and wheel, or if you have an exotic vet in your area?
- Does the breeder accept your hamster back if you are no longer able to care for it for any reason?
*Special thank you to the CHA code of ethics