Loading...So, you’re thinking about getting a Zoozone 2 for your hamster? That’s fantastic! As a dedicated hamster parent and fosterer myself, I’ve experimented with a lot of different cages, and the Zoozone 2 has definitely earned a place in my heart… albeit with a few modifications.
The Zoozone 2: A Breakdown
The Zoozone 2 is marketed as a guinea pig cage, but let’s be real, it’s not even close to being big enough for those furry potatoes. However, it’s an absolute dream for dwarf hamsters!
Here’s the rundown:
Dimensions:
- Height: 37cm
- Width: 100cm
- Depth: 51cm
- Floorspace: 5,100 sqcm / 790sqin
- Bar Spacing: ~1.5 inches
Price: When I bought mine a couple of years ago, it was a steal at £55. Sadly, the price has gone up to £79.99, but keep an eye out for second-hand deals – you can often find them for around £30.
What I Love About The Zoozone 2
This cage ticks a lot of boxes for me. Here’s why:
1. Space, Space, and More Space: At 100cm wide, the Zoozone 2 offers ample space for all your hamster’s essentials – a comfy hideout, a generously sized sand bath, a 12-inch wheel (it’s a bit snug, but it fits!), and mountains of bedding (think 8 inches deep!).
2. Escape-Proof (Mostly): I primarily use this cage for my Roborovski hamsters, and let me tell you, those little ninjas are escape artists extraordinaire. The Zoozone 2, with its tank-style design, makes escape nearly impossible once you’ve meshed the lid (more on that later).
3. Easy Access: The large front door is a godsend for cleaning and interacting with your hamster. No more awkwardly reaching through tiny openings!
The Not-So-Great Bits
No cage is perfect, and the Zoozone 2 has a few drawbacks:
1. Meshing is a Must: Remember the 1.5-inch bar spacing? Yeah, that’s a recipe for disaster if you have a dwarf hamster. You’ll need to mesh the lid to prevent any Houdini-esque escapes. I used 13mm² galvanized mesh on the inside of the lid and secured it with zip ties.
2. Ventilation Could Be Better: Like most tank-style cages, the Zoozone 2 doesn’t have the best ventilation. Placement is key here – avoid direct sunlight or any areas prone to overheating.
3. Watch Out for Chewers: The cage has indents designed for a hay rack, but a determined chewer can easily get their teeth into these. My hamster, Mania, managed to do just that. You can fix this with resin, but it’s something to keep in mind.
The Meshing Conundrum
Meshing the lid is essential, but it can be a bit fiddly. I learned a few things along the way:
- Meshing from the inside: I prefer this method as it prevents hamsters from getting stuck between the mesh and the bars. However, it can make opening and closing the lid a bit tricky.
- Plenty of zip ties: Don’t skimp on these! Use plenty to ensure the mesh is flush against the bars and can’t be lifted or chewed on.
Is the Zoozone 2 Right for You?
Despite its flaws, I genuinely believe the Zoozone 2 is a great hamster cage, especially for dwarf breeds. With a bit of DIY meshing and careful placement, it provides a spacious and stimulating environment for your furry friend.
A word of advice: Before you commit, measure out the cage’s dimensions in your home to ensure it fits comfortably.
Happy hamster housing!
