Hamsters

are hamsters illegal in california


Are Hamsters Illegal in California?

California is renowned for its lenient stance on pets, allowing dozens of exotic species to be kept and owned within the state. However, there is some confusion regarding the legality of hamsters in California.

Laws Restricting Hamster Ownership

Under California law, certain types of hamsters are prohibited. These types of hamsters are classified as “prohibited species” and are illegal for any person to possess, except under very strict guidelines:

  • Minks: These animals, close relatives to the hamster, are highly regulated and are not allowed to be kept as pets in California.
  • Syrian Hamsters: Syrian hamsters, also known as Golden Hamsters, are domesticated animals and are allowed to be kept as pets, but only with a permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
  • Other Hamster Species: Other species of hamsters, such as the Chinese or Dwarf hamsters, are not restricted and may be kept as pets within California.

Hamster Care Regulations

In addition to any restrictions on type of hamster, anyone keeping a hamster in California must also comply with certain care regulations. These regulations include:

  • The enclosure must be enclosed and provide enough space for the hamster to move around.
  • The enclosure must be kept clean, with regular cleaning and disinfecting.
  • The hamster must be fed with proper nutrition and provided with fresh water.
  • The hamster must be provided with plenty of exercise and playtime.

Failure to comply with these regulations could result in the hamster being taken away or the owners being prosecuted.

To summarise, while certain types of hamsters are prohibited in California, such as Minks and Syrian hamsters, other species are allowed to be kept as long as the owner complies with all state regulations.

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