Loading...Thinking about welcoming a hamster into your home or upgrading your furry friend’s living arrangements? Choosing the right cage is crucial for your hamster’s happiness and well-being. As an experienced hamster parent and foster carer, I’ve had the opportunity to try out a variety of cages, and the Savic Plaza XL (also known as the Savic Plaza 120) has earned a top spot on my list.
In this detailed review, we’ll delve into what makes this cage so special, exploring its size, features, and why I believe it’s a fantastic option for hamster owners.
Savic Plaza XL: Size and Dimensions
The first thing you’ll notice about the Savic Plaza XL is its impressive size. Here’s a breakdown of the dimensions:
- External: 118cm length x 64cm depth x 52cm height
- Internal (between bars): Approximately 112.5cm length x 58.5cm depth x 50cm height
That extra depth of 58.5cm makes a world of difference compared to the standard Savic Plaza. You’re essentially getting an additional 10cm (about 4 inches) of floor space, which translates to more room for your hamster to explore, burrow, and play.
The bar spacing is officially 0.9cm, though I measured it closer to 0.8cm (8mm). This makes it a safe and secure option for Syrian hamsters and most dwarf hamster species.
Easy Access with Two Large Doors
The Savic Plaza XL features two large access points:
- Front door: Provides easy access for interacting with your hamster and cleaning.
- Top door: Offers a convenient way to reach in and make adjustments or attach items to the cage walls.
Both doors are generously sized, making it a breeze to reach in and interact with your hamster or clean the cage.
Setting Up Your Savic Plaza XL
Assembling the cage is relatively straightforward, similar to the standard Savic Plaza. The panels slide into corner struts, and end caps secure them in place. It’s easier to assemble the bars on a flat surface before lifting and attaching the top to the base.
While I managed to set it up solo, having an extra pair of hands to hold things steady, especially when attaching shelves, can make the process smoother.
Creating a Hamster Paradise: Cage Contents and Customization
The Savic Plaza XL comes with a basic set of accessories:
- Green shelf and ladder
- Savic Rolly wheel (I recommend replacing this with a larger wheel for your hamster’s comfort)
- Food bowl
- Water bottle
- Small plastic house (more suitable as a treat hideout than a primary nest)
I chose to customize the cage further with a larger wheel, a wooden shelf cut to size, and plenty of bedding. Remember, hamsters are burrowing creatures, so the deeper the bedding, the happier they’ll be!
Pro Tip:
- DIY Wooden Shelf: For a natural and spacious platform, consider a custom-made wooden shelf. Mine is 25cm deep x 58.3cm wide, with corners slightly trimmed to accommodate the cage’s curved supports. You can find pre-cut shelves online or easily craft your own.
- Bedding Panels: To prevent bedding spills and create a deeper bedding area, attach bedding panels to the cage walls. Cardboard is a budget-friendly option (for hamsters that don’t chew), while Perspex offers durability.
Is the Savic Plaza XL Right for You?
I’m truly enamored with this cage. It’s spacious, well-ventilated, and offers ample opportunities for customization.
Here’s who I think would love the Savic Plaza XL:
- Hamster owners who prioritize space: The generous dimensions provide ample room for your hamster to thrive.
- Those who enjoy customizing their hamster’s habitat: The cage’s size and design allow for endless creative setup possibilities.
- Anyone looking for a cage that’s easy to access and clean: The large doors make cleaning a breeze.
A note on cost: While the initial investment for the Savic Plaza XL might be higher than smaller cages, I believe it’s a worthwhile investment in your hamster’s well-being.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing the right cage is a fundamental step in providing a loving and enriching home for your hamster. The Savic Plaza XL is more than just a cage – it’s a blank canvas for you to create a captivating and spacious world that your hamster will love to call home!
