New hamster chewing / climbing bars

[bronzino]

Hi all,

Sorry if you get this question a lot but I've got a new Syrian hamster, I've had him for 4 days and I've noticed he's started chewing the bars of the cage and occasionally bar climbing. He's in a 100x50x50cm cage recommended by the pdsa, his bedding is nice and deep and he has lots of toys, hides and a 33cm wheel which he runs on a lot! Before buying him I was asked to supply pictures of setup and the breeder was very happy with the home. He's showing no signs of ill health, he eats and drinks properly and has made a nice nest in the substrate for himself so I don't think he's physically ill.

Is this just a stress response to his new environment? I hate seeing him chew the bars, I don't want him to injure himself and just want him to be happy!

Thanks in advance!

[Hamantha]

Hi Bronzino
Congratulations on your new Syrian hammy! Here is a company that makes perspex screens for hamster cages, attached and detachable with wingnuts Enclosure Screens And Guards Archives - Viking Laser
You may find that he bar bites mainly the front if the cage. You can try using cardboard and loo roll inners, or even ink free envelopes, but be careful of sticky sellotape or potential toxins. I stopped feeding my Syrian through the front bars as he would beg for food and then bar bite if he wasn't getting any. I feed him inside the cage as he loves the interaction (and so do I)