This page is intended to be a starting point for those interested in adopting a hamster. We’ve included some common topics as well as enclosure examples for inspiration.
Review the Basic Hamster Care video
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Review common topics
Enclosure Size
Research into hamster welfare has evolved significantly in recent years, and there is a lot of confusing information online to have to muddle through. The vast majority of cages and toys marketed for hamsters in the US are outdated.
All species of hamsters need at minimum 775 square inches of continuous floor space as established by the Veterinary Association for Animal Welfare (TVT) in Germany. It is the only existing standard that is backed by scientific research.
775sqin is equivalent to a 75 gallon tank, for reference.
Hamsters and Children
Children are not suitable as primary caretakers for hamsters for reasons beyond their own whether they arts capable individually. Basic hamster supplies can cost hundreds, and all hamsters need to be seen by a qualified exotic vet promptly when ill. ER visits and exotic visits often cost a minimum of $100-$300 per visit.
Parents who are looking to adopt hamsters for their children must commit to being the primary caretaker and financial supporter of the hamster. Young children should never be left alone to handle a hamster. This means the hamster enclosure should be located somewhere inaccessible to the child except under supervision.
Hamsters and Other Pets
In domestic settings, all species of hamsters are strictly solitary (despite common claims that some species can be housed together). A hamster should be kept alone, and the location of the enclosure should be inaccessible to other pets, especially cats and dogs.
The enclosure must be placed somewhere a cat or dog is guaranteed to not be able to get on top of. Ideally, this would be in a room completely closed off to other pets.
Hamsters, Room, Environment & Stability
Hamster enclosures should be kept somewhere out of direct sunlight to avoid overheating. Room temperatures should never go below 65F (see torpor, which is fatal if untreated) or exceed 77F (risk of heat stress).
Hamsters also need stable environments. This means the enclosure shouldn’t be moved around frequently from place to place.