Zhu Zhu Pets - furry, intelligent animatronic hamsters, are THE HOT toy craze this year.
I say 'intelligent' because their plush little heads contain AI (Artificial Intelligence) computer chips.
This gives them two different operating modes: Explore and Loving.
In Explore mode, the hamsters zip around on their tiny hamster wheels, checking out their Funhouse.
They brush their teeth, making the appropriate sounds, and even flush the toilet.
In Loving mode, they cuddle and coo - just like real hamsters, but without the mess, or possibility of squeezing them too hard!
There are four different Zhu Zhu Pets, each with its own distinct 'personality'.
Mr. Squiggles is the ringleader. He loves to have adventures and is probably best when used primarily in Explore mode. He shows his annoyance when his name is mispronounced.
His sidekick is the beautiful yellow Pipsqueak. She enjoys riding in Mr. Squiggles' car, and does well in Loving mode.
Chunk, colored white, is a laid back, mellow wannabe surfer.
Last but not least is gray Num Nums, who, as you can tell by her name, loves to eat.
All four Zhu Zhu Pets, matched up with their accessories, are sure to give your kids hours and hours of fun.
The popularity of the critters means their friends will have them - Zhu Zhu Pets collector clubs? Watch for them!
Zhu Zhu Pets are poised to become the next Cabbage Patch / Elmo phenomenon. Supplies are scarce and running out quickly.
The furry critters run on AAA batteries which are supplied with each Pet.
They come with sensors on their noses, which lets them know if they've bumped into something while exploring. Sensors on their backs put them into Explore mode - if you pet their little heads, they shift into Loving mode.
Zhu Zhu Pets and their accessories can be purchased at you local retailer - or, if they're out of stock, which is likely by the time you read this - Amazon.com should have them.
