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Hamster cages should be chosen according to the specific needs of the particular species you own. However, there are certain features that all good hamster homes will share.
o Ventilation. No one wants to live in a damp house and for hamsters, dampness can be the kiss of death. Bacterial infections and respiratory ailments can result from lack of air flow. Be sure that the hamster home you choose is properly ventilated.
o Security. Hamsters are natural escape artists and require a habitat that is part hamster home, part hamster prison. Closely spaced bars will ensure that your hamster stays inside and the cats and dogs stay out. Some of the dwarf species can escape through barred cages and may need something more solid, such as an aquarium.
o Litter capacity. Hamsters burrow and dig in their natural habitat, and will be happy if their hamster home is equipped with a deep bottom tray.
o Cleanability. Hamster cages must be kept clean, but this can be a tedious chore. Since regular cleaning is required, make it easy on yourself by choosing a hamster home that is naturally easy to clean.
o Space. Hamsters need lots of room for play and exercise. After all, they come from the Siberian steppes where they were able to roam freely. Choose a hamster home that has adequate room for at least an exercise wheel so your pet can stretch his little legs.
Unless you're spoiling your hamster by purchasing one of the elite castles that require a dedicated room in your house, hamster homes typically fall into one of the following, more modest, categories:
Aquariums – For dwarf hamster varieties, this may be the best hamster home. The solid glass enclosure allows complete visibility and also prevents escape. Litter is not kicked out onto the surrounding surface. However, there is no natural air flow, and the litter must be cleaned often to prevent the build up of ammonia fumes. A lid specifically designed for hamsters will be required to secure your pet. A special hanger must be used to suspend a water bottle. The cost of a five gallon glass aquarium will cost between $ 10 and $ 15. Plan on buying two, so that the hamsters may be put in one while the other is cleaned.
Plastic cages – These hamster cages are like aquariums in their level of security and litter containment, but unlike aquariums, they are specifically designed for small rodents. The lid is destined to keep air circulating, and some of the modular models offer snap-on tubes and compartments to allow your pet additional exercise opportunities. One drawback is that it is harder to remove the hamster for cuddling.
Barred wire cages with plastic trays – the traditional hamster home is the barred wire cage with a deep bottom tray. These provide ideal air flow, but it is important to place the cage away from drafts which could make your pet sick. Multi-story cages allow for the space that hamsters need. Traditional hamster homes are not suitable for dwarf hamsters. They will require a mouse cage that has the bars placed more closely together. Wire and plastic cages start at $ 30 to $ 35 for a single story cage.
Once you've chosen the enclosure, accessories will be the next purchase. Hamsters experience an increased quality of life when they are provided with an exercise wheel, a water bottle, an automatic feeder or stoneware food bowl, litter bedding made of hay, stray, or aspen shavings, and something to chew on. Be sure to choose a habitat that will accommodate all of the above, because it's the hamster toys and accessories that turn a mere hamster cage into a wonderful hamster home.
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Source by Jeremy Smart
