Make sure the hamster you choose is lively, no patches of fur are missing, the bottom area is dry, and that the rest of the hamsters also appear healthy. If most of the hamsters in the cage look unhealthy or ill, it's possible that all of them may already be sick even though one or two appear well.

Take your hamster home as soon as possible

Clean or wipe down their cage and accessories as soon as possible

Make sure cage is completely dry

Set up their cage and add bedding

Put your new Hamster buddy into their cage as soon as possible to reduce the stress caused from the move.

Give them fresh drinking water and food

Try not to handle or startle them at first, and allow them time to get familiar with their cage

Try not to play or handle them too much for a day or two, and let them adjust to being around people.