🏠 1. Cage Size & Type
Hamsters need space to move, dig, and play — small cages cause stress and health issues.
✅ Recommended Size:
- Minimum cage floor space:
- Syrian hamsters: at least 450–500 sq. inches (e.g., 30″ × 15″)
- Dwarf hamsters: at least 360 sq. inches (e.g., 24″ × 15″)
- Height: not too tall — hamsters can fall and get hurt.
🏡 Cage Types:
- Glass Tank: Safe and secure, easy to clean. Just ensure proper ventilation.
- Wire Cage: Good airflow, but bar spacing must be < ½ inch for Syrians and < ¼ inch for dwarfs.
- DIY Bin Cage: Affordable and spacious; made from clear plastic bins with air holes.
🌿 2. Bedding & Substrate
Hamsters love burrowing! Bedding is where they dig, sleep, and build tunnels.
✅ Good bedding materials:
- Paper-based bedding (soft and absorbent)
- Aspen shavings (safe wood option)
❌ Avoid:
- Pine or cedar shavings (contain harmful oils)
- Cotton fluff or synthetic nesting material (can cause choking or injury)
🧱 Bedding Depth:
- At least 6 inches deep, ideally 8–10 inches for digging and nesting.
🧸 3. Enrichment & Accessories
Hamsters are active and need stimulation to stay happy.
Must-haves:
- Exercise wheel:
- Solid surface (no wire bars!)
- Size: 8–12 inches for Syrians, 6–8 inches for dwarfs
- Hideouts: small shelters or tunnels for sleeping and hiding
- Chew toys: help wear down constantly growing teeth
- Sand bath: keeps their fur clean and helps them relax (use chinchilla sand, not dust)
🌡️ 4. Temperature & Environment
Hamsters are sensitive to heat and cold.
- Ideal temperature: 65°F–75°F (18°C–24°C)
- Avoid direct sunlight, drafts, or damp rooms.
- Keep their cage in a quiet, stable environment — loud noises can stress them.
🚿 5. Cleaning & Hygiene
Keep their cage fresh but don’t remove all bedding at once — they rely on scent for comfort.
Routine:
- Spot clean daily: remove soiled bedding and uneaten food
- Deep clean every 1–2 weeks: replace most bedding, wash accessories with mild soap and water, rinse thoroughly
💡 Extra Tips
- Provide a nesting area with shredded tissue or unscented paper.
- Don’t use scented bedding — hamsters have a strong sense of smell.
- Always secure the cage lid — hamsters are expert escape artists!
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