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Cost Of Keeping A Hamster

Below is an approximate guide to the costs of owning and keeping a hamster. The costs given are for keeping one syrian hamster or two dwarf hamsters.

Equipment

When buying a hamster it will be necessary to purchase equipment such as hamster cage, water bottle, food dish, woodshavings, food, exercise equipment and toys. A good sized hamster cage will cost £30-£100 depending on the size of the cage. Other equipment can cost £10-£20.

Feed

The hamster will need a grain or pellet diet and vegetables and this can cost approximately £2-£4 per month.

Woodshavings And Bedding

Woodshavings and bedding will be needed to cover the floor of the hamster cage and provide a nest, and this can cost £2-£4 per month depending on the size of cage.

Extras

Although the main regular costs of keeping a hamster are listed above there are always unexpected costs that can occur, equipment that needs to be replaced or veterinary treatment that is needed. Therefore in addition it is best to factor in an additional cost of £50-£80 per annum for extras when working out whether keeping a hamster can be afforded.

Summary

The table below gives a summary of the costs involved in keeping one syrian hamster or two dwarf hamsters.

Item	One-Off Costs	Annual Costs
Equipment	£40-£120
Food		£24-£48
Woodshavings/Bedding		£24-£48
Extras / Veterinary Treatment		£50-£80
Total	£40-£120	£98-£176