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Old 04-25-2019, 08:00 AM   #1
Creampuff
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Question Hamster Cage Too Small?

Hi!

I was wondering if my hamster cage might be too small. The floor space on the bottom is approx. 527 square inches, plus there is a platform with approx. 200 square inches. I am worried this is too small. It is a big cage, but she doesn't seem happy. She recently took up bar chewing, so I'm taking that as a sign that she's not happy. Anyone know if the cage is too small? Thanks!!
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Old 04-25-2019, 08:20 AM   #2
mangoandmimi
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

It is on the small side I'm afraid, it isn't going to be big enough to provide a particularly enriching Syrian environment as their toys and items are just so large. If she's bar chewing it would be good to think about an upgrade. I personally think around 800 square inches is a good Syrian minimum but would aim for something larger of course. That is excluding platforms as small platforms like that aren't going to add to the available floor space.

Last edited by mangoandmimi; 04-25-2019 at 08:26 AM.
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Old 04-25-2019, 08:37 AM   #3
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

Its a bit on the small side for a Syrian, especially a female tbh. Where are you from? I’m sure we can recommend a good cage option for her!

Until you can upgrade her, you can try distracting her with various toys and chews, toys that can hide food inside are especially good for keeping hammies occupied
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Old 04-25-2019, 01:19 PM   #4
imawizard
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

Unfortunately it's a bit too small. I find female Syrians to be very hyper and need lots of enrichment to keep them entertained!

Some things to try in the meantime:

- make the substrate really deep for burrowing

- rotate the toys around to keep it interesting

- provide plenty of chews and different types (whimzee, loofah, wooden)

- scatter food around the cage, make food puzzles (there are some good ideas on youtube and pinterest)

- get her out for longer either in a hammy proof room or a playpen (children's ball pit/empty bath)

- avoid getting her out when she bites the bars as she will associate it with being let out and will enforce the behaviour

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Old 04-25-2019, 02:13 PM   #5
Shannonmcn
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

You're not the first person to end up with a cage that isn't big enough, including myself in that, and you certainly won't be the last! Pet shops are probably about 10 years behind when it comes to welfare standards so most people get caught in this same dilemma.

There are some good options out there tho and you've come to a great place to get advice. The best options differ from the US/UK/Europe but we'll get you and Creampuff sorted
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Old 04-27-2019, 07:14 PM   #6
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

Thank you so much! Disappointing, since I've only had my hamster for about a month and then find out her cage is too small! Anyway, thank you for the advice!! I live in US, by the way, for the cage recommendations.
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Last edited by Creampuff; 04-27-2019 at 07:15 PM. Reason: I forgot to add something in
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Old 04-28-2019, 01:58 AM   #7
Pebbles82
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

Assuming it's a syrian, there is a good sized cage available in the US that is not too expensive It is very hard to find good sized hamster cages in the US which is why most people use glass tanks (40 gallon breeder is a popular size), or make bin cages. Even then it can be hard to find a suitable bin for a bin cage. This is the cage.

https://www.amazon.com/Prevue-Pet-Pr...gateway&sr=8-1

If it's for a dwarf hamster that may be a bit tall but there would be ways round making it safe from fall risks.
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Old 04-28-2019, 04:19 AM   #8
mangoandmimi
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

Would a detolf fit? You’d need a lid but it would be a good size. Tanks are probably expensive as you’d want at least the 75 gallon for it to be a good upgrade from what she’s currently in, but if it’s in a sale or something that would work.
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Old 04-28-2019, 04:48 AM   #9
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

Good idea A detolf is about the same price as the Prevue cage.

https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/products/...-art-10119206/

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=Ha...w=1252&bih=554
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Old 04-28-2019, 09:14 AM   #10
Creampuff
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Default Re: Hamster Cage Too Small?

The cage I have IS the Prevune!
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