Loading...So you’re welcoming a hamster into your life – how exciting! Choosing the right cage is crucial for your furry friend’s happiness and well-being. While many options flood the market, a spacious 70cm hamster cage is a fantastic choice, especially for Syrian hamsters or those who love to explore.
Why Size Matters: The 70cm Advantage
“A happy hamster is an active hamster,” says Dr. Lisa K., a renowned veterinarian specializing in small animal care. “Cages should provide ample space for running, burrowing, playing, and exploring to prevent boredom and stress.”
Here’s why a 70cm cage stands out:
- Promotes Exercise: Hamsters are natural runners and need plenty of space to stretch their little legs.
- Accommodates Toys and Accessories: More space equals more enrichment! Think wheels, chew toys, hides, and even digging areas.
- Reduces Stress: A cramped environment can lead to stress-related behaviors in hamsters.
- Easier to Clean: A larger cage means less frequent cleaning and better odor control.
Key Features to Consider
Choosing the right 70cm hamster cage goes beyond size. Here’s what to look for:
1. Secure and Safe Construction
- Bar Spacing: For Syrian hamsters, ensure the bar spacing is no wider than 1 cm to prevent escapes.
- Sturdy Materials: Look for cages made from durable, non-toxic materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic.
- Secure Latches: Hamsters are clever escape artists! Double-check that all doors and compartments have secure latches.
2. Proper Ventilation
Good airflow is essential for your hamster’s health. Opt for a cage with mesh sides or multiple ventilation points to prevent ammonia buildup.
3. Easy Accessibility
Choose a cage with multiple openings for easy access to your hamster and for cleaning.
Setting up Your Hamster Haven
Now for the fun part – creating a stimulating environment!
1. Bedding
Provide a thick layer of safe and absorbent bedding, such as aspen shavings or paper-based bedding.
2. Enrichment Galore
- Wheel: A must-have! Ensure the wheel is at least 20cm in diameter for Syrian hamsters.
- Hideouts: Hamsters need a place to feel secure and escape the light. Offer multiple hides made of wood, ceramic, or plastic.
- Chew Toys: Satisfy your hamster’s natural gnawing instincts with wooden chews, cardboard boxes, and mineral chews.
- Digging Area: Create a dedicated digging area using a sand bath or a container filled with shredded paper or hay.
4. Food and Water
Provide a ceramic food dish and a water bottle with a fresh supply of water daily.
A Word on Wooden Accessories: The Perfect Addition
Introducing natural elements like a wooden ladder can further enhance your hamster’s environment.
- Enrichment: A wooden ladder like the “Wooden ladder for MINNESOTA & OREGON rodent cages made of plywood 34 x 7.2 x 0.7 cm” provides climbing opportunities and encourages natural behaviors.
- Dental Health: Gnawing on wood helps to wear down their ever-growing teeth.
Remember: Always choose untreated wood and ensure the ladder is securely attached to the cage to prevent accidents.
Choosing the Right 70cm Cage: Your Questions Answered
- What type of hamster is best for a 70cm cage?
While a 70cm cage is suitable for most hamster species, it’s particularly well-suited for Syrian hamsters due to their larger size and need for space.
- Where can I buy a 70cm hamster cage?
You can find a variety of 70cm cages at pet stores, online retailers, and even some department stores.
- How often should I clean a 70cm cage?
Spot-clean the cage daily and perform a full bedding change at least once a week.
Creating a Happy Hamster Home
Choosing the right hamster cage is a big decision, and a 70cm option offers ample space for your furry friend to thrive. By carefully selecting a cage with the right features and providing enrichment opportunities, you’ll create a stimulating and happy environment for your tiny companion.
