Summary of Reddit Comments on Hamster

Types of Hamsters

Syrian Hamster: The largest with average length of 6-8 inches. Available in long and short hair varieties. Often mistaken for "teddy bear" or "panda bear".
Roborovski Dwarf Hamster: The smallest species, typically around 2 inches long. Fast and difficult to handle.
Winter White Dwarf Hamster: Slowest of the dwarfs, with varying coat colors.
Campbell's Dwarf Hamster: Speedier than the Winter White, with different coat colors.
Chinese Hamster: Sometimes mistaken for dwarfs, a species of their own. Skittish and usually solitary.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Hamster

Pros

Entertaining to watch burrow
Fulfilling to create a good setup
Cute and easy care
Innocent and cute
Awake during early morning and late evening

Cons

Can be expensive
Not cuddly, may not enjoy human interaction
Noisy at night during sleep
Prey animals, may not like being held
Short lifespan
Require space and specific substrate needs

Loss and Accidents

Safety Concerns: Be cautious with hideouts with removable lids, as accidents and suffocation can occur.
Avoid Weighing Down Lids: Prevent lids from easily being lifted by hamsters to avoid incidents like what happened to Pumpkin.
Manufacturer Responsibility: Some commenters expressed the need for better safety features in hamster accessories.

Behavior and Care

Aggression: Some hamsters may exhibit aggressive behavior, which can be managed with specific approaches such as handfeeding treats to encourage positive interactions.
Scent and Food Seeking: Hamsters may nibble to test if your finger is food or show excitement for treats with their bites.

Emotional Responses and Sympathy

Many commenters showed empathy and condolences for owners sharing about their hamsters' accidents and losses, offering understanding and support in such difficult situations.
Sympathy was extended to those who lost their pets or encountered distressing situations with them.

From the Reddit comments, it is clear that hamsters are beloved pets, but owners must be cautious with their care, interactions, and environment to ensure their safety and well-being.