Hamster cages should be chosen according to the specific needs of the particular species you own. However, there are certain characteristics that all good hamster homes will share.
o Ventilation. Nobody wants to live in a humid house and for hamsters, humidity can be the kiss of death. Bacterial infections and respiratory illnesses can result from a lack of air flow. Make sure the hamster house you choose is properly ventilated.
o Security. Hamsters are natural escape artists and require a habitat that is part home for hamsters and part prison for hamsters. The widely spaced bars will ensure your hamster stays indoors and cats and dogs stay outside. Some of the dwarf species can escape through barred cages and may need something more robust, such as an aquarium.
o Capacity of the berth. Hamsters burrow and burrow in their natural habitat, and they will be happy if your hamster home is equipped with a deep-bottom tray.
o Ease of cleaning. Hamster cages must be kept clean, but this can be a tedious task. Since regular cleaning is required, make it easy by choosing a hamster house that is naturally easy to clean.
o Space. Hamsters need a lot of space to play and exercise. After all, they come from the Siberian steppes, where they were able to roam freely. Choose a hamster house that has enough room for at least one exercise wheel so your pet can stretch out its legs.
Unless you’re spoiling your hamster by buying one of the elaborate castles that require a dedicated room in your home, hamster houses generally fall into one of the following, more modest categories:
Aquariums – For dwarf hamster varieties, this may be the best home for hamsters. The solid glass enclosure allows full visibility and also prevents leakage. Trash is not flushed to the surrounding surface. However, there is no natural air flow and the sand must be cleaned frequently to prevent the build-up of ammonia vapors. A cover specifically designed for hamsters will be required to secure your pet. A special hanger should be used to suspend a bottle of water. The cost of a five gallon glass aquarium will cost between $ 10 and $ 15. Consider buying two so that the hamsters can be placed in one while the other is being cleaned.
Plastic Cages – These hamster cages are like aquariums in their level of security and litter containment, but unlike aquariums, they are specifically designed for small rodents. The lid is vented to keep air circulating, and some of the modular models offer snap-on tubes and compartments to allow your pet more exercise opportunities. One drawback is that it is more difficult to get the hamster out for a hug.
Barred Wire Cages with Plastic Trays – The traditional hamster home is the barred wire cage with a deep bottom tray. These provide ideal airflow, but it is important to place the cage away from drafts that could make your pet sick. Multi-story cages allow the space that hamsters need. Traditional hamster houses are not suitable for dwarf hamsters. They will need a mouse cage that has the bars positioned closer together. Wire and plastic cages start at $ 30 to $ 35 for a one-story cage.
Once you’ve chosen your venue, accessories are your next purchase. Hamsters experience a higher quality of life when they are provided with an exercise wheel, a water bottle, an automatic feeder or stoneware food bowl, a litter bed made of hay, aspen or aspen shavings, and something to chew. Be sure to choose a habitat that accommodates all of the above, because it is the hamster toys and accessories that turn a simple hamster cage into a wonderful hamster home.