Hamsters are usually the first pet that everyone gets because they are small, adorable, and slightly more low-maintenance than a cat or a dog. If you didnāt have a hamster at home, you probably had a class pet that would have been a hamster.
However, one thing that you didnāt know about your hamster is that the cage it is in is probably too small. Hamsters are small, but they enjoy large spaces. They also have a knack for climbing into small spaces. Itās one reason why those 3-foot tall pipe hamster cages became so popular.
Unfortunately, not everyone has the space for those cages. So, if you have limited space, what is the best size cage for a hamster?
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The Bigger, the Better!
Honestly, the bigger the cages are, the happier your hamster will be. But, if youāre pressed for space, the best option is to get a cage that is no smaller than 450 square inches. On the off chance that space is not an issue for you, pick a cage thatās around 600 square inches.
If you want to give your hamster the perfect home, try getting extra large hamster cages. These can be 1500 to 1550 square inches in size. It gives your hamster plenty of room to run, play, burrow and sleep without feeling cramped for space.
This factor is also influenced by the number of hamsters you have. The more there are, the bigger the space should be. Keeping a pair in a small cage can cause them to get stressed. They might start exhibiting cannibalism or fighting with each other.
The breed of the hamster also matters. Dwarf hamsters generally tend to be smaller whereas Syrian hamsters are larger in size and need more room to run and play around. By keeping all these factors in mind, you can get the best size cage for a hamster in your home.
Why Should You Get an Extra Large Hamster Cage?
Big cages make hamsters happy, healthy and also give them space to run around and exercise in. Thereās been a studyĀ done on this very aspect. In 2007, three researchers, namely Steiger, Fischer and Gebhardt-Henrich, set up four different sized cages.
The sizes ranged from the smallest being only 288 square inches to the largest being 1550 square inches. All the cages got the same exercise wheel and toys. The researchers monitored the stress levels of the hamsters in all the cages. The data showed that the hamsters in the larger cages were relaxed and happier.
Sadly, the hamsters in the smaller cages were extremely stressed. They exhibited behaviors like chewing on the bars for prolonged periods of time, climbing the walls, or the roof of the cages. They also tried to escape several times from the cages. When placed in a larger cage, they became happier and stopped chewing on the bars.
Our Recommendation ā The PrevueĀ Pet Products 528 Universal Small Animal Home
Offering 667 square inches of space to your hamsters, this is a spacious cage that comes with large entry doors. It also has a deep base,Ā small platform that is height adjustable and is easy to assemble. Itās the perfect option
Best Hamster Cage Ideas
When it comes to buying large hamster cages, most people tend to be more practical. They donāt often think that their hamsters will require more than just a food bowl, a water tube, an exercise wheel, and a sleeping place.
However, the more toys and interesting areas there are in their cage, the more mentally stimulated and happy the hamster will be. The aim should be not just giving your hamster a cage but making their home as similar to their habitat as you can.
To do that, you can try some of the best hamster cage ideasĀ for your little one:
Using Glass Cages
If you have an old aquarium lying around, then you can revamp it to become a hamster cage. It can have enough room and also protect your hamster from drafts. One area where attention is needed is that you need to be able to provide enough ventilation. Poor ventilation can affect your hamsterās health and well-being.
Additionally, they might not be as easy to clean since, for wire cages, you can remove the bottom tray. However, these cages are more aesthetically pleasing and can offer your hamster more space.
Having a Layer of Deep Bedding
Always make sure to have deep bedding for your hamster. A good 1 Ā½ inch or 2 inches of bedding is necessary for your hamster. This will allow it to burrow and dig, both of which are natural hamster habits. When they get to indulge in their natural habits, they are going to be happier.
Pay attention to the quality of the bedding you use. Make sure that youāre getting the best kind. It should also not have harmful ingredients or particles that could hurt your hamster because it will naturally chew on the bedding too.
Using a Wire Topper
One of the best ways to use an old aquarium is by adding on a wire topper cage. This cage can be extremely useful for creating a multi-level playground. These wire toppers can come for different aquarium sizes and it isnāt difficult to find one for 10-gallon tanks.
Our Recommendation āĀ Ware Manufacturing Chew Proof, High Rise Pet Cage for Small Pets
With spring clips for attachments, an access door, and safety ramps, this wire topperĀ allowsĀ you to have a cage thatās not just fun for the hamster but you as well!
DIY Hamster Cage ā Making Small Modifications
Already found your perfect cage? Then how about checking the attachments that come with it? Sometimes, hamster cages have generic accessories that arenāt always good for your hamsters. For starters, the hamster wheel is usually small.
When this happens, you can try to simple to a little DIY Hamster CageĀ accessories can be bought separately, and you can switch out the parts that you donāt like.
Our Recommendation ā Kaytee Comfort Wheel ā 8.5 Inches Large
A bigger wheel will allow your hamster to exercise and run properly without feeling cramped. The Kaytee large wheel is going to be the perfect addition to your petās cage. It is also available in different colors and sizes.
You can also add some ramps to make the cage multi-level. Itās one of the best ways to add more space and give your hamster something fun and exciting to do. Theyāre going to love the setup, and you will see them exploring every corner of their little cage.
With the help of this information, you can easily figure out the best size cage for a hamster in your home. You also get to enhance the quality of life of your hamsters simply and easily.
