Hamsters have become the must-have pet in China since the Year of the Rat began on 7 February.
Pet shop owners say stocks are running low - and prices high - as children clamour for a furry friend.
According to the Chinese media, prices have tripled to about 30 yuan ($4.20, £2.10) per hamster across the country.
In the Year of the Rat, this tiny creature has become the most acceptable rodent, a type of animal that is not everyone's first-choice pet.
"Rats and mice have a bad image, but hamsters are gentle. You can hold them in your hand and play with them," Xinhua News Agency reported.
By bringing up a pet, my son will learn about compassion and caring for animals 
Pet stores are also reporting an increased interest in other, similar-looking creatures, such as chinchillas and squirrels.
But it is the hamster that appears to have caught the imagination at the start of a new lunar year in China.
One father told the media: "I've always wanted to buy my son a small animal and a hamster is an ideal choice.
"By bringing up a pet, my son will learn about compassion and caring for animals."
But there is a downside. Experts are warning that rodents have sharp teeth and can deliver a nasty bite.
Some could even be carrying the rabies virus.
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My Comment: Rabies Virus? Hmm, not very surprised due to all of those toy recalls from China..
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