My first hamster's DIY cage

[Ann333]

I'm not sure if this is considered a bin cage or not, but I got this unit for $17 at Wal-Mart. It has three shelves that are each 21 inches long by 15 inches wide. So each drawer is 300 square inches and because she has access to all three drawers that makes 900 square inches.

I melted holes to hang toys and the water bottle. I also made ramps for easy access from one level to the next. Her wheel would not fit, but I added two flying saucer wheels. I was thinking of adding wire mesh but I can't find the right type in my small town. Hopefully I'll find some soon.

What do you all think? I've never had a hamster before and id love some advice or constructive criticism.

[xbuttons94]

Does she have any ventilation? I can't see very well from the pictures.

[Pebbles82]

It looks like a great idea. I was also wondering about ventilation - assume that's why you're thinking about mesh. Bin cages do need a lot of ventilation - usually in the front panels and the lid. She wouldn't be able to get any fresh air otherwise and smells would build up causing respiratory problems. Apologies if there is ventilation that can't be seen on the photos. It would need more than a few holes though.

[Ann333]

Yes that's why I am looking for mesh.

[Pebbles82]

Most hardware stores should stock it. 1cm square mesh is the usual size used, and you can use cable ties to attach it. The tricky bit is cutting the plastic I believe (I think you need a hot knife). Meanwhile, do you have another cage to pop your hammy in?

[Ann333]

Only a 10 gallon. But I am leaving her drawers open several times a day for fresh air. And I can put her in a playpen when I add the mesh.

[cypher]

That's a good idea to open the drawers when you can as long as she's supervised but she will be most active at night & that's when she needs the ventilation most so try to get the mesh as soon as you can & make some nice big ventilation panels.

[Pebbles82]

Agree - asap! I even think the 10 gallon tank might be better for now until your bin cage is meshed. Unless you get it meshed in the next day or two.

[Fluffagrams]

Depending on how strong the plastic is you could use a jigsaw instead of a soldering iron to cut the holes prior to meshing.

I use a 1mm mesh on my bin cages and they're held on the outside with cable ties pulled tightly and so far I've not had any escape attempts from my Chinese.

[Ann333]

I mentioned the mesh in my original post. Does anyone have any other suggestions?

Edit: I actually do have a question. With parrots people are extra careful to only use stainless steel in their pets cage for fear of metal poisoning. Does the same apply to hamsters?