The Best Hamster Toys For Kids

What to Look For

In our research, we found that the best hamster toys are imaginative, user-friendly, and durable. For example, we love how Little Live Pets’ playset comes with everything your child needs to spark creative play. In fact, the toy hamster responds to touch, and the included house mimics that of a real one. If you’re in the mood for a laugh, then we’d recommend Ayeboovi’s talking hamster. It jiggles and dances as it repeats whatever you say but in a hysterically higher pitch. Read on to learn more about our favorite picks.

Little Live Pets – Lil’ Hamster: Popmello & House Playset

Cute as can be

With its realistic sounds and colorful features, this hamster toy set will spur your child's imagination.

Best Overall

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We love how interactive Little Live Pets has made their playset. A little hamster named Pompello greets you with cute squeaks and giggles whenever you pet them. Pompmello is soft to the touch and moves around like a real hamster. Plus, her home comes equipped with a wheel where you can watch her exercise. We think your child will fall in love with this brightly colored and animated little toy hamster.

Pros:

• We love that you can purchase two additional hamsters for this set, Sprinkz and Strawbles.
• This toy hamster is much cheaper than a real one and easier to care for.

Cons:

• We wish the batteries lasted longer.

Ayeboovi Talking Hamster

Copy cat

This hilarious little hamster repeats what you say (or sing) but at a higher pitch.

Most Interactive

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We think Ayeboovi’s talking hamster will have you rolling on the floor with laughter. This little hamster repeats everything you say or sing. The only difference is that the hamster’s voice is higher pitched, like a cartoon chipmunk. This toy is perfect for parties, family get-togethers, and really any time you want to have a good laugh. Cuddle-wise, this toy is actually quite soft, so don’t be surprised if your little one wants to give it a hug.

Pros:

• While this is marketed towards children, we found that adults enjoy this talking hamster just as much as they do.
• This toy may help your shy toddler to practice talking more often.

Cons:

• When not in use, you may want to keep the hamster away from your children. If your kids play with it whenever they want, this fun toy can quickly become annoying.

Aixini Hamster Plush

Cuddle up

This snuggle-worthy plush toy is generously sized and luxuriously soft.

Best Plushie

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This huge hamster plush toy is perfect for snuggles, and it’s not bad as a head pillow either. It’s nearly 2 feet long and stuffed to the brim with soft yet firm cotton. However, if you’d prefer a smaller size, there’s also an 8-inch plush available for purchase. Plus, it’s durable enough for toddlers and rambunctious children. Everything, from its floppy ears to its playful paws, is securely sewn.

Pros:

• One of our favorite features is that you can unzip the body for easy washing.
• It’s a great companion for kids who have trouble sleeping alone.

Cons:

• It may need additional stuffing, depending on how fluffy you want it.

XQW Little Hamsters Set

Race to the finish

This little hamster playground will keep your toddler occupied with its colorful accessories.

Best Hamster Track

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XQW’s Little Hamsters set will provide your child with plenty of entertainment. The set looks a lot like a race track and comes with battery-operated hamsters equipped with wheels that help it move along the track. In addition to the track, this set comes with a cupcake trolley, two chairs, and a table. The track itself is decorated with colorful storefronts like an ice cream shop and gas station. Most importantly, this set is made with non-toxic materials, so you don’t need to worry about your toddlers chewing the pieces.

Pros:

• If you have a boisterous toddler, we’re pleased to report that this set can take a beating.
• We found that it’s pretty easy to assemble.

Cons:

• We wish this set was larger; it’s much smaller in person.

ABL Happy Hamster Pet with Wheel Runner

Life-like

If you're not ready to purchase a hamster, this toy mimics the real thing, and it's fun to play with too.

Most Realistic

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This life-like hamster from ABL almost had us fooled. Between its size and fluffy body, it looks like the real deal. If your kid wants a hamster but you aren’t ready to spend the money, we think this is a fun alternative. All you need are a couple of AA batteries, and your faux hamster will be racing on the included wheel runner.

Pros:

• Siblings who are jealous that their older brother or sister has their own hamster will appreciate how realistic this toy is.
• The hamster runs just as fast on the floor as it does on the wheel.
• For adults, we found that this can be a fun gag gift.

Cons:

• Depending on how often your child plays with it, this toy set won’t last too long.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did people start having hamsters as pets?

You’d think we’ve been enjoying hamsters in our homes for centuries, but people only began purchasing hamsters as pets in the early 1930s. Compared to dogs and cats, they’re fairly new domesticated animals.

Are guinea pigs and hamsters the same animal?

While they’re both a part of the rodent family, hamsters are smaller and only live about 2 to 3 years compared to guinea pigs, which live up to 8 years.

About the Author

Jonathan has been a pet lover since his first cat at the age of six. Since then, he's been lucky enough to have many furry friends in his life — from cats, dogs, fish, and everything in between. His goal is to help you find the products you need to make pet ownership all the more fulfilling.

Why Trust Us

Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.