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.

Placing your hamster in cardboard or wooden boxes is not the best idea! Hamsters have teeth much stronger than human beings and can chew their way right through them. Picking a hamster cage is easy but you need to be careful as to which one is right for your pet!  The hamster cage can be made of plastic with a hamster wheel and toys too! If you to decide on a plastic cage for your hamster make sure the plastic is thick on the base and has metal bars all around! Get one with a lift up lid or a large opening which will help you when you clean the cage.

Many experts suggest using aquariums as hamster cages! Aquariums are spacious, easy to clean and can be accessed from the top. Keep in mind hamsters cannot sustain high temperatures so if using an aquarium as a hamster cage them make sure you replace the glass on the top with a wire mesh that is sturdy and tough. The size of the wire mesh should be around 1 by 1 centimeter.

Now that you decided on a hamster cage, it’s time to create the environment! Just keep in mind that no matter what home you decide to go with, the environment is what will make your hamster grow and live to its fullest! The floor of the hamster cage must consist of wooden shavings for comfort. Try to keep it within 2-3 inches thick and try to use wet wooden shavings! Eventually after playing for a while the hamster with chew up some of the wooden shavings so it’s a great idea to keep the shavings moist!

You can use cedars in you hamster cage as well but it is not recommended as they produce oils that may be harmful to your hamster. When cleaning the hamster cage take your hamster out first and keep it in a safe place like a hamster ball! Then clean and get rid of all the used dust and bedding and wipe it with a soft cloth. Cleaning your hamster cage once a week is an excellent idea!