The size of the hamster's living space is crucial for their health and happiness. Hamsters are lively and active animals and need enough space to maintain physical health and psychological balance. Here are some important considerations regarding the size of the hamster's living space:
Activity space: Hamsters need enough space to run, jump, climb, and play to ensure their physical health and psychological balance. A too-small cage will limit their range of activities and may lead to insufficient exercise, which in turn can cause health problems such as obesity and muscle atrophy and even affect their lifespan.
Social interaction and exploration: Hamsters are social animals. Especially when they are kept in groups, they need enough space to divide their own territories and have social interactions. In addition, hamsters are naturally curious and like to explore unknown areas. A spacious cage can stimulate their curiosity and promote intellectual development.
Comfort and sense of security: Enough space can make hamsters feel comfortable and safe. They can freely arrange their nests, store food, and even set up a "toilet" in some corners, thus forming good living habits. A too-small cage will make hamsters feel depressed and uneasy and affect their emotions and behaviors.
Specifically, the recommended sizes for hamster cages are as follows:
Base area: At least 450 square inches, and the height should not be less than 12 inches.
Recommended size: 50 cm in length x 35 cm in width x 35 cm in height.
Optimal size: 60 cm in length x 40 cm in height. The width depends on the hamster breed. Mini hamsters can be a bit shorter.
In addition, the material of the cage should be ventilated and easy-to-clean materials such as plastic or glass tanks. Avoid using metal grids or other materials that may harm hamsters. The inside of the cage should be provided with sufficient bedding such as wood shavings or paper cotton for hamsters to dig holes and hide. At the same time, set up toys such as running wheels and tunnels to satisfy their desire for exploration.
In short, providing a spacious, ventilated, and safe living environment for hamsters and ensuring they have enough activity space and exploration opportunities is the key to ensuring their health and happiness.