Hamsters are much loved family pets. With a lifespan of around 2-4 years, they sadly are not in our lives for very long. Saying goodbye to a much-loved pet is always difficult, but knowing what to do after they have passed can be equally as challenging.

Table of contents

What are the options when a hamster dies?

When a hamster dies, there are several options for what you can do with their body. These are very personal choices and will differ from person to person. These options include:

Cremation 

Often this is arranged through your veterinary surgeon, but can be arranged through a private pet crematorium as well. Individual cremation means your pet is cremated on its own and the ashes will be returned to you. You can choose different levels of personalisation with this option. And the price of this and how much choice is available will depend on the services offered by the pet crematorium being used. The other option is group cremation, where your pet will be cremated with other pets. This is a cheaper option but does mean you will not get your pets ashes back as they will be scattered with those of other animals. 

Burial

This is often a cheaper option than cremation and frequently an option chosen by many small pet owners. There are important legal and environmental considerations to consider if you want to choose this option, however, which we will discuss further below. 

What are the legalities involved with burying your pet hamster at home?

* Disclaimer – the information given below is a guide only. Please seek personalised legal advice if you want specific advice on your personal situation. We are not legal professionals and are not qualified to give legal advice.

1) If you want to bury your pet hamster you must ensure that you only bury it on land that you own. This means you can only bury them in your garden if you own your house. You cannot do this if you rent the property. You also cannot bury them in public places, for example, you must own the land. 

2) You cannot bury your pet near a water source. For example if you have a natural spring, well or other source of water on your land you cannot bury them near this. Consult your local council for specific information about what depths and distances you will need to be clear of any water source. 

3) If your hamster has been treated with medications that are deemed harmful to human health or hazardous for another reason. For example some chemotherapy drugs, then they cannot be buried. It is important to confirm with your veterinary surgeon whether your hamster falls into this category or not before making the decision to bury your pet.

4) You must bury your pet at least 3 feet of soil deep in light soil, or 2 feet if in heavy soil.

Are there other places you can bury your pet hamster if you cannot bury them at home?

If you don’t own your home or are unable to bury them at home for any other reason, you can contact a dedicated pet cemetery as they often have burial spaces for pets. Your local veterinarian may be able to advise you of the local pet cemetery in your area. In addition, the APPCC website lists the details of private pet cemeteries who are part of the association of private pet cemeteries and crematoria.

What are the environmental considerations when burying your pet hamster?

Ideally it is best to bury your pet hamster inside a solid container, such as a wooden box or purpose made pet coffin. This means they are less likely to be disturbed or dug up by other animals. 

When you have buried your pet, it is ideal to mark the area with some stones. This is so you are aware of their location in the garden and don’t accidentally dig them up in the future. Some people choose to plant a tree or other plant over the top of the area as a memorial; which can be a nice way of commemorating your pet. 

Ideally, bury your pet as soon as you feel able after they have been confirmed dead. As time goes on your pet’s body will start to deteriorate. This can be an uncomfortable thing to witness for the family. 

Summary:

  • Cremation and burial are the main options available when choosing what to do with your pet hamster when they pass away.
  • If you want to bury your pet hamster at home you must ensure you are legally able to do so.
  • Consider burying your pet hamster inside a solid container such as a wooden box or pet coffin to minimise the chance of them being disturbed by wildlife after they have been buried.

Further reading: