Why does he toilet everywhere? Any suggestions?

[TheOtherStu]

Hi all,

I've tried a number of different approaches, but ultimately, my Syrian hamster just goes everywhere and anywhere. Not just poo (because that would be easier to manage) but wee. And his cage absolutely stinks. Quite honestly, we're having to do 100% change every couple of weeks - we can't spot clean, because that would involve replacing 50% of his bedding.

I've tried a number of different things - changing to tea bag bedding (made it worse) and introducing a fairly decent size sand bath.

He loves his sand bath, but won't do anything in it.

Anyone had much joy with getting their hamster to use one particular area?
Should I try some pet litter? Would he be more likely to use it?

i'm building him a large cage at the moment, so I can dedicated space to it if needed.