Kids really like the idea of owning a Hamster, but it is not always allowed in most households. They are really cute, but we all know how it goes - kids beg and beg, they say they will take care of it and us parents know how it ends - we are cleaning those cages. They also do not smell so good if you do not tend the cage often.

My kids have been asking for one for years. I am a big animal lover and would not have any problems with this normally. I just know my kids better and I do not need anything else to clean. And my number one reason for saying "No" is that I have 6 cats in my home. Two of them go in and out and are hunters. How would I explain??

I think if you are able to have a real pet Hamster in your home - go for it. They are a lot of fun and you can find some really great toys just for them. For those who are unable to have one for whatever the reason is - you can still give the kids a Toy Hamster to play with.

Photo Credit: cdrussorusso and annia316

Some of you may know there is HUGE hype over these new Zhu Zhu Pets right now. They seem to be the must have toy for this 2009 Holiday Season. What I find very funny about these is that they have been around for some time under their old name Go Go Pets. The company has changed their name to Zhu Zhu Pets and have made some commercials and now every child wants them. Marketing can be a very funny thing and for this Toy Hamster Line it seems to be working.

Zhu Zhu Pets are toy hamsters without all the mess. They are battery operated and pretty realistic. The interactive hamsters make noises and squeaks and will play in their tunnels, houses and cars all on their own.

There is a variety of Hamsters to choose from and of course lots of accessories.

• Hamster Funhouse
• Hamster Bed and Blanket
• Hamster Carrier and Blanket
• Go Go Adventure Ball
• Spiral Slide and Ramp
• Hamster Car and Garage
• Surf Board and Sleep Dome
• Skateboard and U-Turn Ramp
• Hamster Wheel and Tunnel

I think they are a nice choice for someone who cannot own the real thing. If you want to make sure to have these this holiday shop now - they are getting harder to find in stock.

I am amazed at all the realistic Plush Hamsters on the market. Some of them look so real and life like to me. The one my daughter had received is the TY Beanie Baby Hamster.

You can also find a nice variety of Littlest Pet ShopToy Hamsters and Littlest Pet Shop has a VIP Hamster also.

So when the question is presented to you from your child asking for a Hamster - maybe instead of saying "No you can't" say "Yes, just not a real one". It sounds better doesn't it? There really is a large amount of Hamster Toys out there so you do have a good selection to choose from.

And of course when your kids show a large interest in something - turn it educational. Find some great books featuring Hamsters and get them to sit down, read and enjoy a good story.