What Do Hamsters Need in Their Cage?

Hamsters make good pets for people of all ages, because they are small and easy to care for. Like all pets, hamsters will need a comfortable home environment and good quality food.

  1. Environment

    • A hamster's cage will need some sort of bedding, made out of aspen, straw or recycled paper. Avoid pine and cedar, as this type of bedding may contain harmful chemicals or cause injury to small rodents' feet and digestive systems. A small shelter, such as an igloo or nesting box, also may be considered.

    Toys and Chews

    • Hamster wheels are a must to provide the hamsters with exercise and enrichment. For the health of their teeth, hamsters also need chew toys. Shaped wooden chew-toys can be bought at stores, though undyed cardboard, such as regular brown toilet paper rolls, can work just as well to keep their teeth filed down.

    Dishes

    • Buy sturdy ceramic dishes that cannot be tipped over by a hamster to serve their food. Water should be dispensed from a water bottle, rather than put in a bowl, to avoid contamination by food or waste.