Almost every year, there seems to be at least one toy that stores can’t seem to keep stock of. In years past, we’ve seen the craze has been for toys likeTickle Me Elmo, Cabbage Patch Kids or Webkinz. This year, the rage is all about Zhu Zhu pets.

The idea behind Zhu Zhu Pets is a interactive toy in the form of a pet hamster, with no mess or risk of losing the pet. This little critter is lively and life-like by being integrated with technology to produce both real hamster sounds and real hamster-like motions.

But should you bother getting one? Live hamsters themselves are relatively low in price, although if you decide to accessorize, you might find yourself spending a bit more than you expected. Most people can see a pro in not having to worry about how rough a kid is playing with it or having to change the cage. But some have presented concern that this toy is fails to teach children any sense of responsibility has far as pets are concerned.

Some parents will get their child a Zhu Zhu pet to satisfy his or her curiosity about pets or in lieu of a real one. While these pets can’t replace the responsibility of caring for a live pet, one point to consider is that your child might not be ready for a pet and all that has to happen to successfully look after a hamster, or any pet. But caring for a Zhu Zhu pet, might inspire a greater response to caring for a creature than you imagined.

An example might be a two year old that loves an older child’s pet hamster. You may not want to get a real hamster for a two year old, because that would be a short, sad fate for the hamster. But with a Zhu Zhu pet, your child can have almost as much fun without the fear of hurting it.

The Zhu Zhu Pet is integrated with technology to interact to any accessories purchased for it, as well as the mechanics to simulate the actions of a normal hamster, which include: sporadic movements, sleeping, and normal hamster noises. The Zhu Zhu goes one step more, allowing the pets to do tricks as well.

Zhu Zhu Pets might be the next Tickle Me Elmo or Furbee and are only a hot commodity for a season. They might soon be forgotten about. But, they are admittedly quite cute, so you should consider getting a Zhu Zhu for your little one and to let them experience the fun of having a pet, or maybe just having a new pet, without the messy tasks of caring a pet that no one likes.

Get more about these furry critters, including Zhu Zhu Pets Funhouse and Zhu Zhu Hamster Wheel