New Syrian Hamster (female)

Question
Recently my sons hamster died of 4 years old! The wife and I finally told him a few days ago and the boy was very sad. So, we went to the local petsmart and bought him a new female hamster. As I put the cage and everything together I was reminded of her leaving all her little friends behind and began to wonder if she'd get lonely. Also, if she new how to get water out of her bottle which just hangs straight down from the housing it's in. What can I do about both issues? Should I get her a friend (another female) and what about the water issue?

Answer
Hi,
You've obviously looked after your hamster well if he lived to 4 years! I'd firstly like to congratulate you on that.
It depends what sort of hamster it is as to whether she's prefer a friend. If she is a Syrian hamster, no. They are not social and the female will kill any male that comes onto her territory. However, if it is a dwarf species of hamster, they often like company, and would enjoy the presence of another female.
If you do not know what sort of hamster it is, send me a picture and I'll hopefully be able to tell you.
She will quickly get used to the water bottle; all hamsters do. You should not worry about that.
Good luck with your new hamster,
Kathryn