A Tiny Cage for a Hamster is Not Enough: Life Hack Alert!
Problem Statement
YSK that hamsters need much larger cages than what pet stores typically sell, with a minimum size of 3.2 x 1.6 x 1.6 ft for dwarf hamsters and bigger still for non-dwarf varieties.
The Fix
The typical small cage sold in pet stores is not enough space for a happy hamster life. These rodents need floor space to run and dig burrows, and a wheel with a minimum diameter of 28 cm (11 inches) to prevent spine injuries from excessive running at night.
How to Do It
To give your hamster the best life:
* Get or build a cage that meets the minimum size requirement for your hamster’s type.
* Provide a deep substrate for burrowing and digging.
* Choose a silent wheel with a diameter of 28 cm (11 inches) or more.
* Be prepared to wake up to happy, but loud, hamsters at night.
Extra Use Case
This life hack also applies to guinea pigs and gerbils, which have similar space requirements and preferences for deep substrates and suitable running wheels.
No Tools Needed
