What do you think of hamster as a pet? Well, when I first saw the tiny-winy creature, I couldn’t believe myself; it was so adorable! It has been many years since then, but I still remember how I used to go to my aunt’s house every day just to have a look at it. Now we have a golden brown Syrian hamster in our family. She is a cool entertainer and is an absolute hit with my children. We have bought her a suitable pet cage, which she has taken to quite well. If you are planning to welcome a cute hamster into your family, you need to know the various available kinds of hamster cages.

Pointers to keep in mind while buying a pet hamster cage:
Since you are adopting such a cute animal into your household, you need to give him a home where he can enjoy maximum protection and comfort.

Below are some important points which you may like to keep in mind:

• Your hamster is a very active animal and he needs enough space for running and playing. This requires you to select a cage with a lot of free space.
• It is also important to opt for a cage which comes with a secured lid or top and closely placed bars. This will allow you to tuck your hamster securely as well as prevent other animals from harming him.
• As a damp cage could be a potential ground for bacterial infections and respiratory diseases, you should ensure that the cage has optimal airflow.
• Keeping the hamster cage clean is probably the least attractive but the most important part of your hamster care. So, you should choose a cage which offers easy cleaning.
• Like all other animals, your hamster has a peculiar trait. This involves burrowing himself beneath his litter! For your own good, you may want to select a tray with a deep bottom. This could check scattering of the litter to some extent.

Types of pet hamster cages

Aquarium hamster cage: An aquarium may look like a good habitat as you can get a ring-side view of the entire cage from outside. Also, its glass barrier would prevent your hamster from climbing up the bars and escaping through them. But a pet hamster cage is not without its drawbacks.

• A glass cage is heavier than any normal wire cage. A bit of maneuvering is required for removing the soiled litter and cleaning the glass walls and floor.
• The glass sides could obstruct the air flow. Also the buildup of ammonia fume within the cage could promote a damp environment.
• You will need to buy a separate lid.

Plastic cage: Comes with full plastic side enclosures and usually with a vented plastic lid.  A major positive is that some may also have built-in exercise wheel to keep your pets active but it would be difficult to take your pet out of the cage as there is no door. The other drawbacks are lack of ventilation and difficulty in cleaning the tubes and the cage.

Wire cage: Compared to the previous two, a wire cage would probably offer you the best option. It is also the easiest to clean. Your pet will enjoy the optimal airflow with no ammonia buildup but this also leaves your pet rather exposed; he would need extra protection from drafts.

Guest Blogger: Nina Ghosh Konar