Selecting a hamster...

Question
Hi, Shawntiah!
I am very seriously considering purchasing a hamster... but I am not sure as to the breed.
I would like a pet that rarely bits and that would happily sit in my hand as I watch a movie...
Is this at all possible? Do any types of hamsters enjoy being held or gently pet?
If so, whay breed would you suggest? Or should I choose another type of animal?
Thank you very much for your time and help!! : )
~Evie

Answer
hello! Well to be honest I've never known a hamster to sit in your lap for longer than a few minutes. And of course all hamsters have the tendancy to bite so maybe a hamster isn't for you since hamsters aren't really that big on being held constantly. They like to run on your hand and really don't stay too long. My dwarf hamster is constantly running on my arm when I let him out. You really wouldn't be watching a movie with a hamster on your lap. You'd be trying to get it to settle down. You know in reality the best type of small animal for you would probably be a rat. Yes, I know you're probably thinking a rat. Those are disguisting!! Well rats are actually one of  the smartest rodents to buy. Don't worry the fancy rats that are sold to people aren't the yucky outdoor ones. Rats can actually remember and recognize their name and they can and will sit on your shoulder and lap and they love and NEED company. They desire it and actually prefer a companion. They are one of the few species that actually get along with other rats even if they weren't introduced at the same time or at an early age. They actually are known to morn the loss of their companion rat. Rats are extremely social animals and a lot of people have two of them if they are not able to provide the attention and love the rats crave. Rats actually aren't much of a biter like hamsters. If you buy one you will instantly fall in love and it will fall in love with you. Even if he doesn't have a friend to play with and snuggle with in the cage he will really look to you for companionship. I have sold people rats and have never had a person return one. Normally they are shocked at how smart and calm rats are. One guy likes to walk around his house with his rat on his shoulders. The tail is what gets most people. They don't like the long tail of a rat, but once you hold them it's really not that bad. Rats do need a nice size cage about 2 feet long and one foot wide at least and they love to snuggle. I'd really consider getting a rat as a friend. :) Good luck and keep me posted.