It’s never too early to start shopping for Christmas.  Especially when the hottest toys sell out quickly. One of this year’s best is Zhu Zhu Pets and is predicted to be the top seller of 2009.

This interactive hamster toy follows on the heels of the popularity of Littlest Pet Shop, which has been wildly successful for years, but these little guys will have you believing they’re real.

Zhu Zhu Pets are battery operated and have various mode settings, which allow them to squeak, bump and roll through their hamster house or play in the many different play sets available. One that I like is the Zhu Zhu Pets Giant Hamster City, which comes with everything your child needs to get started.

This set includes two hamsters, funhouse, exercise wheel, garage, sleep dome and adventure ball.  Kids can set the mode to whatever activity they want.  Time to play (watch them race around!) or time to snuggle (they’ll coo and purr when you hold them.) They’ll love watching  these silly hamsters explore their habitat and because this particular set comes with two pets, a sibling or friend can join the in the fun!

Though I’m not usually a fan of electronic toys, this one is great for boys and girls who really enjoy “things that go”. when the battery runs out, don’t replace it. They’ll get hours more fun  making the hamster run around using “kid power”.

Zhu Zhu Pets are also sold separately if you want to start out small (Zhu Zhu Pets Hamster “Pipsqueak” With Orange Pet Bed And Carrier) for a younger child.  But don’t hesitate; these little guys are flying off the shelves!