Unlocking the Secrets to an Epic Hamster Cage Setup: Tips and Tricks for Happy Pets and Proud Owners
Summary
The perfect cage for a hamster is a glass tank of at least 40 by 20 inches to give them space to have tunnels, find their food, and not feel trapped in a place where they need movement.
They also need a wheel to run, various hideouts, a variety of textures in their bedding, different tillers to forge in their home, a sand bath, and platforms.
All of these will ensure that you have a healthy and happy hamster.
Introduction
I don’t have a hamster.
I have two dogs and a cat, but I imagine that all people with pets love them and want what’s best for them.
We want them to be happy, feel safe, and be well-behaved.
The same goes for a hamster or any other pet.
Let’s imagine I have a little furry friend named Roberto.
Since I’m from Mexico, I think naming him Roberto is a great idea.
He sleeps during the day and plays at night. He enjoys different types of seeds and burrows in his surroundings when no one is watching.
I love Roberto, so I want the best for my new little friend.
I won’t put him in a small cage with newspaper bedding (ink is toxic for most animals including us) and just a wheel to release his frustrations.
That would make me sad.
Thanks to Wellix let’s know how to make a paradise in a hamster cage for our little furry friends.
I want Roberto to have a dignified life in his own space. To achieve this, I need to do the following:
1. Choosing the Ultimate Hamster Habitat
Wire Cages: The Breathable Haven
Wire cages are like little hamster heavens with their exceptional ventilation and panoramic views.
Your furry friend can feel the gentle breeze tickling their fur while exploring the wide-open spaces.
Plus, the horizontal bars offer a perfect climbing opportunity, giving them a chance to showcase their acrobatic skills.
However, it’s worth noting that wire cages might require extra effort when it comes to keeping the bedding contained.
The little rascals can be quite talented escape artists! For this space is always important.
We need wide cages to let our hamsters run freely wherever they want.
Plastic Cages: The Easy-to-Maintain Oasis
If convenience is your top priority, look no further than the plastic paradise.
These cages are a breeze to clean, thanks to their smooth surfaces and removable compartments.
With a solid base, you can rest assured that no stray bedding will find its way onto your floor.
Plus, plastic cages often come with vibrant colors and fun designs, adding a touch of whimsy to your hamster’s abode.
Just be cautious about ventilation and ensure proper airflow to keep your little friend cool and comfortable.
Glass Cages: The Clear Window to Happiness
For those who want an unobstructed view of their hamster’s adventures, glass cages are a delightful option.
These transparent wonders allow you to witness every tiny expedition without any barriers.
The sleek and modern design of a glass cage can effortlessly blend into any home decor, becoming an elegant centerpiece.
However, keep in mind that glass cages may require extra attention when it comes to maintaining temperature and humidity levels, ensuring a cozy and safe environment for your pint-sized companion.
We recommend a glass cage because they are the widest ones available on the market.
A 40 x 20 inches long would be ideal. This will give space to our friends to roam and have constant activity.
Roberto will dig, make different hideouts, and feel freer than in a plastic cage or a wire one.
2. Essentials for a Happy Hamster Home
So, you’ve carefully selected the perfect cage for your furry friend, and now it’s time to gather all the necessary items to create a haven they’ll truly adore.
Let’s go through a checklist of must-haves that will ensure your hamster’s home is nothing short of paradise:
First and foremost, let’s talk about bedding.
Your hamster deserves the comfiest and safest resting place possible.
Opt for bedding materials like aspen shavings or paper-based bedding (not newspaper allowed) that are absorbent and provide a cozy nest for your little buddy.
For Roberto, I will prefer to use hemp spruce in lots of quantity, this way most of the glass cage will resemble mud and make Robert dig up.
Next up, food and water essentials!
Your hamster needs a reliable source of nourishment.
Don’t give your hamster their food directly.
Even if they are domesticated, their instincts are alive.
Sprinkle their food all over their home.
They will find it and be entertained with this.
Anxiety and cage biting will reduce.
Leave a small pot or spring made of plastic or other resistant material for him to hydrate.
You can also buy dry herbs and make more complex surroundings and get nutrients for this.
Also, you can buy tillers of different seeds and plant them in their hamster cage.
They will surely go for them and this will be like playing in the wild.
3. Now, let’s focus on exercise
Hamsters are incredible little athletes, bursting with energy and curiosity.
A high-quality, well-built exercise wheel is an absolute must!
Choose a wheel that’s appropriate in size and design, providing a smooth and enjoyable workout for your furry friend.
This will make them run the long distances their ancestors followed.
Speaking of exploration and security, hamsters love having hiding spots where they can feel safe and snug.
Consider adding cozy tunnels, adorable igloos, or cute little houses to your hamster’s habitat.
These hiding spots will not only give them a sense of security but also provide endless entertainment as they scurry in and out.
In the case of Roberto, he will naturally dig up tunnels, but, also, he will hide daytime in his hideouts.
They are lonely animals, they don’t want to be seen always.
If the hideouts have different rooms, they will be happier.
Chewing Toys!
Last but not least, let’s talk about chew toys.
Hamsters have an innate need to chew, and it’s crucial to provide them with safe outlets for this natural behavior.
Look for chew toys made of wood, natural wood, a bridge with no gaps in their joinings (Robert can get harmed), or other chewable materials that will keep their teeth in check and prevent boredom.
4. Enhancing Hamster Haven
Let’s see how to make a hamster boring-proof palace:
Tunnels and Tubes
Unleash a burst of whimsy by interconnecting different nooks and crannies of the cage with a vibrant assortment of tunnels and tubes.
Your hamster will embark on endless adventures, meandering through these colorful passageways like a true explorer!
Platforms and Levels
Embrace the vertical realm and optimize the space within the cage by introducing captivating platforms and levels.
Imagine your hamster frolicking up and down, hopping from one level to another, reveling in the newfound freedom to explore.
Even if the platforms are in the bedding, use stills to make them stable.
I don’t want Roberto to get stuck while digging one of his multiple tunnels.
Nature’s Touch
Infuse a touch of nature’s wonders into your hamster’s sanctuary.
Imagine a mini forest within the cage! Select carefully curated rocks, petite branches, and pet-safe plants to mimic the captivating essence of the great outdoors.
Change the platforms and hideouts using different bedding to use new textures for our friend’s paws.
Your little one will be enthralled by the natural wonders and discover endless opportunities for playful escapades.
Sand Bath
Even if hamsters are really clean animals, they love to roll on sand.
This prevents them from getting skin issues.
I will put Roberto a big recipient double his size with lizard sand (no added calcium, please) to let him roll on it.
And this also looks very cute.
You will have a rolling hamster.
This is basic and don’t forget to leave this special place to our little friends.
5. Maintaining a Clean and Healthy Habitat
To ensure your hamster’s health and happiness, it’s crucial to maintain a clean cage.
Here are some simple steps to follow:
–Remove any soiled bedding and waste daily.
–Clean the food and water containers regularly to prevent bacteria growth.
–Deep clean the cage and accessories once a week using a pet-safe cleaning product.
–Always ensure the cage is thoroughly dry before adding fresh bedding and returning your hamster.
Conclusion
I know Roberto is happy.
And I know at the same time, that maybe he isn’t real, but I will put all my effort to give him the best house of all.
Remember, a well-designed cage is the key to your hamster’s happiness and well-being.
Embrace your creativity, follow the tips and tricks outlined here, and get ready to witness the joy and charm that your furry friend’s cage will radiate.
See More
Here, the expert on Hamster Housing, Victoria Rachel gives us how to set up a hamster cage.
References
California Hamster Association – Hamster, Club, Nonprofit
IHANA- Internet Hamster Association of North America
Hamster care | Animal Humane Society
Connecting Hamster Clubs 1992 – 2007 (britishhamsterassociation.org.uk)