The choice of a hamster cage is a step not to be missed for the well-being of your little companion. A cage adapted to his needs will guarantee him a secure and comfortable space in which he can blossom. You would not like to live in a house or an apartment that you do not like? The same goes for your hamster.
Here are the different criteria to take into account when buying a hamster cage.
Choose a suitable cage size
Your little friend needs enough space to move around, play and sleep. It is essential to choose a cage that is large enough for his well-being.
A space that is too small could generate stress in the animal, and encourage the appearance of inappropriate behaviors.
Therefore, be sure to take into account the length and the width of the cage to make sure it will fit your pet.
Here are some recommendations for minimum dimensions of the cages :
- For a dwarf hamster (Roborovski or Campbell): 60 x 45 cm floor area and 35 cm height
- For a Syrian hamster 80 x 50 cm of floor space and 40 cm of height
Note that these are minimum dimensions, and that the ideal would be to have an even more spacious cage to offer your hamster an optimal living space.
The different cages
There are several types of hamster cages, each with advantages and disadvantages:
The cage with bars
The bar cage is a classic choice, appreciated for its sturdiness and ease of maintenance. It also offers good ventilation, which can be beneficial for your hamster's health.
Some models may have too many gaps between the bars, which could allow your pet to escape or injure itself trying to get through. Opt for a cage with bars close enough together to avoid these problems.
Wooden cages should be avoided, as hamsters can easily chew through them and escape.
The plastic cage
Plastic cages are generally more affordable than metal cages, and offer a variety of fun shapes and colors to brighten up your hamster's day. They are also easy to clean, but not as durable.
Some hamsters also have a tendency to nibble on the plastic, which can cause safety issues in the long run.
The glass or plexiglass cage
These cages offer an excellent view of the interior, and are particularly suitable for hamsters that like to dig. They are sturdy and easy to maintain, but their weight and size can be a disadvantage.
However, they are often less well ventilated than metal cages.
The accessories to be put in place
Once you have chosen the ideal cage for your hamster, you will have to equip it with the necessary accessories for its well-being:
- A wheel It will allow your hamster to exercise and avoid boredom. Be sure to choose a wheel that is appropriate for your pet's size, and check that it is safe for its paws and tail.
- Hiding places Hamster: Hamsters are secretive animals that like places to hide and sleep. Provide them with several shelters, such as plastic tunnels, wooden houses or cardboard tubes.
- Toys To stimulate your hamster's intelligence and fight boredom, consider offering him various objects and toys with which he can interact (balls, ladders, bridges, etc.).
- A sandbox To ensure your hamster's hygiene, install a small container with special chinchilla sand in which it can roll around to get rid of the excess sebum on its coat.
- A bottle of water To ensure that your hamster can drink at any time, install a water bottle adapted to its size.
The location of the cage
Finally, don't forget that the location of the cage is a major consideration. Place it in a quiet place, away from drafts and temperature variations.
Avoid rooms that are too noisy or crowded, as hamsters are sensitive to stress. Make sure the cage is not exposed to direct sunlight all the time, as this can cause overheating.
By following these tips, you can provide your hamster with a suitable and secure living space that will help it to thrive. Take the time to think about your choices before buying a hamster house. hamster cageto ensure the best possible quality of life for your little friend.