Animal lovers out there must be aware of these tiny fluffy cuddly creatures. Hamsters have become a popular choice of households everywhere due to their endearing looks and personalities. These serotonin machines is part of the rodent family, and are relatively low maintenance to care for. These hamsters do not necessarily require bathing, and are probably only due to a regular routined check up.
A hamster’s personality is one that cannot be compared. They are, by default, much more domesticated than the rest of their rodent cousins – and are easy to train. Hamsters are also part of the Crepusular family – where they are most active during twilight (sunrise and sunset). Crepusular creatures are also especially active during full moon nights. Aside from their bursts of energy, they make great house pets and would not need to dedicate more time and effort in raising them.
So if you’re considering on raising hamsters of your own, be sure to commit to doing prior research. Hamsters, despite being low maintenance, still require tools and other resources in order to survive. There are many articles online that could provide you all the needed information that you would need. One thing that you’d definitely need to consider is their living spaces. While some breeders would prefer to buy one of their own, others find the joy in building one from scratch.
So if you’re feeling crafty and up for the challenge, be sure to read through this article to find out how to build your own hamster cage!
1. Measure and Estimate the Proper Size
Before actually constructing the cage, breeders are strongly advised to estimate and measure the proper sizing of said cage. Breeders should ensure that the size of said cage is not too large to feel lonely in, but grants enough space for the hamsters to comfortably move around. Generally, breeders would construct a cage as big as 30x30x30 cm. This comfortably fits in one hamster, and the size may go up depending on the amount said breeder is planning to foster.
2. An Enclosed Habitat
In creating the blueprints for the cage, a breeder should ensure that the habitat is enclosed and free from any holes and open doors. An enclosed habitat would not only protect your hamsters from harmful predators and dangers, but would hinder them from escaping. However, despite how strongly it is advised for hamsters to live in enclosed areas, breeders should ensure that there is an airflow where they could breathe.
The material used to construct the hamster cage may vary, so if breeders construct them with barbed wire, the one way they could ensure that the cage is enclosed from any potential harm is to cover the cage with a ventilation-friendly cloth. If breeders utilise cardboard materials, be sure to poke ventilation holes that allows your hamsters to breathe.
3. Layer the Cage’s Surface
It is strongly advised that all hamster cages are layered with sand or shaved wood. This is done to create a heat protectant from the cold naked surface of the cage. Hamsters are very much prone to the cold, and would have health consequences when cold and ignored. Hamsters are warm blooded creatures that requires constant warmth to live comfortably – therefore, it is also wise to locate your cages in a warmer environment.
4. Install Toys
Similar to humans, hamsters require entertainment and fun to pass the time. Boredom may be an uncomfortable feeling, and could trigger hamsters to overeat – thus, dangerous for their overall health. To avoid this from happening, breeders are advised to install interactive toys within their habitats for them to play with. You could construct them of your own, or even purchase them at your local pet shop at an affordable price. One common toy that is often installed in the habitat would be their exercise wheel.
However, the degree of importance of this factor may differ for different owners. Breeders who are raising hamsters for reproduction purposes may not require to install these toys to avoid cutting more costs. On the other hand, owners who had adopted their hamsters as an animal companion would probably want the best for them and would more than welcome to spoil these hamsters with toys.
5. Add Floors
Going in line with the toy installation, breeders are also advised to add different floor levels to keep the hamsters active and entertained. Hamsters love climbing around the premises, and a good amount of exercise is well needed to maintain their overall health. A wide and interactive space helps hamsters live comfortably and at peace.
6. Use Barbed Wires
As briefly mentioned, breeders who would want to build their own cages would often have their own preferences of materials they’d use. However, it is strongly advised that breeders opt for using barbed wires to build their cages. This is because the material is sturdier and are less prone to damage than their paper and cardboard counterparts. Furthermore, a barbed wire exterior adds in aesthetic value and matches almost every exterior.
7. Designate Feeding Space
Last, and most importantly, breeder should dedicate a good amount of feeding space where said hamsters can eat and drink. Designating one space would help control the messes these hamsters might make, and makes refilling their feed an easier process. Without a designated feeding space, the habitat may be at risk of being dirty and bacteria infested – which could contribute to health consequences in the long run.
Aside from the seven tips listed below, breeders should also consider these following points:
- Do not spread the food all over the habitat. As discussed, this would encourage mess and bacteria growth.
- Regularly clean the habitat atleast twice a week, or when the area is visibly dirty and smelly.
- Purchase your feed at a local petshop. Be sure to choose wisely by checking on their nutritional values first. Consult medical professionals if you need to.
So there you have it, some careful tips on how to build your own hamster cage. As mentioned, the size and trinkets of said cage differs for every breeder’s needs – so if you’re still unsure on what is best for you, consult experienced breeders and do more prior research before hand. Be sure that the habitat is cozy enough for your hamsters to live comfortably. Good luck!