Decent hamster housing.

[tireesix]

My male is currently living in a habitrail studio which he is really happy with but my 3 females are living in these small cages which seemed alright at the time, I mean, they come out a lot etc but I can't fit much in there toy wise and they are forever chewing the bars.

So, i have been looking around and I am wondering what kinda size is best, I am thinking about something like one of those enclosed plastic cages with a wire roof bit, the only thing is, they seem a bit small, so I was wondering whether going with a similar type but more like an indoor rabbit/guinea pig size cage?

It will take me a little while to get them all but would something like that be ok?

[souffle]

The Duna Multy or the Zoozone two would be a good size for a trio.
The zoozone bars need meshed as they are quite a large spacing.
If you wanted a single tank type cage each then one dwarf is quite happy in a Duna, a Ryden Millhouse, FOP Bernie deluxe, Gabber lux or any one of similar size.

[louise_81]

RSPCA recommends 3 sq ft for a Syrian Hamster.

As your girls are pregnant I would definately recommend the Duna multy, I think they are fab cages with plenty of room for toys, and also pleanty of room for a growing litter too.

The are also great to stack up on each other.

Search results for 'duna multy' from EQUINECANINEFELINE Online Horse & Pet accessories

I have the first one and it is definately big enough. Although it did used to be listed as a rabbit cage. I sent them these pics of my Bun in the cage (Ibought it as a hamster cage, but was shocked by the size.) They were fab and actually changed the ad.





Frankie is modeling it for a rabbit. He is my smallest rabbit, a lionhead. Poor lad can't even stand up straight, he scrunched up for fear of hitting his ears off the roof

I don't think it would be recommended to move your hamsters until they have had their litters and they have weaned, as any type of stress/danger could mean they kill their litter.

Someone with more experience in breeding will be able to tell you more accurately, as to when and when it isnot safe to move a pregnant hamster

[souffle]

Sorry tireesix I thought you were taking about dwarf hamsters and the cages I suggested were as stated for dwarfs!
Syrians, especially pregnant ones would need much bigger cages such as the Duna Multy as suggested by Louise or the Zoozone or Gabber rex. Barred cages would be the Hamster Heaven, Criceto15, Savic Cambridge, Imac fantasy with extensions. You could make bin cages? Have a look on the cage review section

[louise_81]

10% off code for Equine is fun88 at check out

Or have a look at my thread

How to make your own bin cage

[tireesix]

I was thinking about making my own but wasn't sure but I may be tempted as 3 hamsters, plus the DS taking on one of the litter, thats like, a lot of money. The cages they have at the moment are ok for now but I definitely want to improve them.

I am going to have a look around andfor cage components and have a go at making one first I think before I consider buying.

Apart from anything else, we homeschool the kids so this would be an excellent project for them.

[louise_81]

They are quite easy to make, so long as you already have the tools. A soldering iron is quite cheap on amazon, or I am sure you could find one on ebay, B&m Bargains have welded wire mesh in at the minute and cable ties, so it would be very cheap depending on the box type you get. Definately go for the biggest box you can get. Staples have 84 ltr Really Useful Box's for £18.99, they also shave their own version on offer at the minute. They are on BOGOF!

[fluffymunchkins]

everyone has suggested brilliant cages but i find that if you have a few hamsters (and soon to be much more) it'll be a good thing to consider a cage that is easy to clean.
The cambridge is fine its just the shelves that are a pain. But both the zoozone, duna multis and gabbers should be dead quick and simple.
But equally a bin cage is great, i find its the easiest part of peggys cage to clean
I agree a great project for kids, i know i enjoyed the feeling of accomplishment and that i'd made a bargain!

[tireesix]

It looks like its going to be the home made one then!

I spoke to the husband and step son and they are both really for making our own.

DH is really wanting DSS to make one because it ill look really good for the home education officers, especially if he designs it on paper first and does it properly.

I really like the fact that they will be easy to stack and with zillions of hamsters (although hopefully returning to only a few in a couple of months time), it looks like its going to be the most affordable way to go.

Really looking forward to doing this! Already been window shopping for some toys etc!

Thankyou all!

[fluffymunchkins]

Glad you've chosen the homemade route, feel free to ask any questions if you find yourself stuck!
Louise81 posted a great little guide not long ago that makes it simple to understand.
I'll Look forward to hearing how it goes