Big Hamster Cages | Can They Be Too Big?
Posted by Ken on November 19, 2009 · Leave a Comment
The simplest answer to the question of how big is to big for big hamster cages is… no cage is too big. You have to remember that your hamster will enjoy and thrive in as large a play area as you are able to provide. Just as any of us would find a cage restricting a hamster would find a small hamster cage very restrictive. With a big hamster cage the hamsters play time has so many more options available and a happy hamster is likely to be a healthy hamster and one which lives longer.
The minimum size for a hamster cage should really be at least 18 inches square and a similar height. Unless your hamster is a dwarf hamster you really shouldn’t be considering a hamster cage that is any smaller than this minimum size.
Big hamster cages are easier to clean than smaller ones as you will have greater access to the interior of the cage when cleaning. In addition, wire hamster cages are probably over all a better choice of material for the walls and roof of the cage, although you should try to make sure the base of the hamster cage is plastic or at least solid in formation as if it was a wire mesh then there are likely to be comfort issues for your hamster and hygiene issues for you as the hamster will likely defecate in on the floor of the cage which would soak through into the surface below. Plastic hamster cages, even the ones which would qualify as being big hamster cages tend to have a significant number of tubes and tunnels built into the design, which is great for the hamster but will always present you with problems when you are attempting to keep the cage clean.
Although it is recommended that your big hamster cage has wire mesh sides and roof, the size of the mesh should really not exceed more than one half of an inch. Any more and there is a real possibility that your hamster will be able to escape and come to some harm. It is very difficult to lose a hamster in even the smallest of houses so be aware at all times of the potential to lose your hamster.
The other aspect associated with big hamster cages is the ability to put a hamster wheel inside. A hamster wheel is an important play and exercise item and should not be overlooked. Hamsters are nocturnal and will use the hamster wheel far more at night, but they do love to run and hunt for food and as large an exercise wheel as possible is definitely preferable.
Whilst you can definitely get away with a regular hamster cage, big hamster cages with an interesting and varied play area within are by far the preferable option as your hamster will have a better overall quality of life and be a better and more entertaining pet as a result.
Filed under Big Hamster Cages · Tagged with Big Hamster Cages, Dwarf hamsters, hamster cages, hamster wheel, hamsters cage, hamsters cages, Large Hamster Cage, large hamster cages, plastic cage, string metal bars
The Dwarf Hamster Cage
Posted by Ken on October 17, 2009 · Leave a Comment
Dwarf hamsters are also known as Chinese hamsters! Dwarf hamsters are small in size but are cute as ever! There are many options that you need to consider when it comes to picking a dwarf hamster cage! So why not take your time, look around and make sure that you get a cage that’s just right for your little dwarf hamster!
You can pick a cage that is made of plastic with string metal bars or an aquarium, which makes an ideal hamster cage. If you choose to pick an aquarium as your dwarf hamster cage, keep in mind that although they are great for viewing and cleaning, they can be heavy and quite cumbersome when it comes to moving them around! A plastic cage for your dwarf hamster is probably the ideal solution! But make sure that the cage you choose has a large tray on the bottom. This gives you the opportunity to put into the hamster cage a hamster wheel and some other play devices allowing your hamster to be properly active and it also makes it easier for you when cleaning.
Now that you’ve decided on the perfect dwarf hamster cage, it’s time to show you a few tricks and tips on how to clean it! Dwarf hamsters are very delicate and usually have fun cleaning themselves. You can help them by buying some sand from your local pet store. This is not your ordinary sand that you get at the beach. The sand is called chinchilla sand! Please make sure that you purchase chinchilla sand and not dust, chinchilla dust can be extremely harmful to your hamsters respiratory systems!
When cleaning the cage, make sure you use pet safe cleaners and not your home based cleaners! Home based cleaners leave behind a residue which is harmful to your hamster! Make sure you clean the cage at least once a week and change the bedding at the same time! This ensures that your hamster is clean at all times and thus stays healthy!
Do not mistake your hamster for your pet dog and give them a bath! Hamsters are dry animals and enjoy being that way. Giving them a bath can cause them to get wet tail and could be harmful! Your dwarf hamster cage must be filled with fruits, vegetables and water at all times! These tips will ensure your dwarf hamster stays healthy and nourished forever!
Filed under Dwarf Hamster Cage · Tagged with aquarium, Big Hamster Cages, cheap hamster cages, chinchilla dust, chinchilla sand, Chinese hamsters, Dwarf Hamster Cage, dwarf hamster cages, Dwarf hamsters, Hamster Cage, hamster cages, hamsters cage, hamsters cages, Large Hamster Cage, large hamster cages, pink hamster cage, Rotastak Hamster Cage, rotastak hamster cages, string metal bars
