While relatively small, hamsters enjoy plenty of space to keep from being stressed. While many owners provide their hamsters with multi-level cages, is this something hamsters like?
Hamsters may like multi-level cages because they have different levels to explore; however, there are better options. Hamsters need a lot of floor space; adding levels does not accommodate this need. There is also the risk of falling from these platforms, leading to injury.
This article will explain why there are better options for hamsters than multi-level cages. It will also provide alternatives that satisfy the floor space needs of these little pets. Read on for everything you need to know about multi-level cages.
Why Multi-Level Cages Aren’t the Best Option for Hamsters
Plenty of adorable multi-level cages are available that you may think are the best option to give your hamster all the space it needs to get by. However, there are better solutions than these cages for housing your little pet.
Allowing it to explore upward doesn’t actually increase the space the hamster has access to. It also poses dangers for the hamster.
Hamsters Need a Lot of Floor Space
While you may think capitalizing on all the space in your hamster’s cage will provide more space, that’s not technically the case. Building upward with platforms does not satisfy your pet’s floor space needs.
Instead, it needs abundant space on the bottom of its cage to run around, play, sleep, burrow, and perform all its other hamster activities. This means you’ll need to buy a large cage to accommodate the hamster and all its belongings, with enough room to move around.
While you can add platforms, there are dangers involved in having them, which we will cover next.
Hamsters Can Get Hurt When Falling From Heights
The primary issue with multi-level hamster cages is the height between platforms. Hamsters will love exploring and will use the platforms if you provide them.
However, the hamster could fall or jump from the platform to the bottom of the cage. This can result in an injury or potentially even death.
Despite having ramps or plastic tunnels in which it can safely travel, your hamster may decide the best way to reach the bottom of the cage is by jumping. Unfortunately, most of a hamster’s activity occurs while you are sleeping, so if it were to do this and be injured, you wouldn’t know until the following day.
Alternative Options to Multi-Level Cages
Now that it’s clear that multi-level cages are not the best option for hamsters, it’s time to consider the alternatives that may be more suitable. These choices will make better solutions to the need for floor space, allowing your hamster the room it needs to spread out during its daily tasks and be less stressed.
Connecting Multiple Cages With Tubes
One fun way to increase floor space is by connecting two or more habitats. This will allow your hamster ample room to explore and different areas to perform various tasks.
Also, habitats are generally too small to use individually, making them ideal for connecting. However, if you find one that is large enough on its own, ensure it’s not round, as this may cause your hamster undue stress as it could be confused with no corners.
Using a Cage With Larger Floor Space
The simplest solution is to purchase a cage that is large enough on its own. Let’s look at two options and their potential downsides so that you have some ideas for providing your little pet with enough floor space.
Cages With Metal Bars
These cages are one of the most popular options for hamster owners. You’ll need to shop around to find the right size. The minimum size should be 15” x 12” x 12” (38 x 30 x 30 cm).
While a standard choice, these cages have some downsides:
- Your hamster could try climbing the bars and accidentally fall.
- If the bars are too far apart, your hamster could escape.
- The floor may have metal bars that are uncomfortable on your hamster’s feet.
- Your hamster can gnaw on the bars, causing a lot of noise.
Aquarium Tanks
A large enough aquarium can also double as an excellent hamster cage. It’s perfect for keeping the bedding inside while your little pet digs around. Additionally, it’s escape-proof, whereas the alternatives have higher risks. You’ll need a tank that is a minimum of 10 gallons.
The downsides of this type of cage include the following:
- The potential buildup of ammonia from hamster urine could lead to respiratory issues.
- There will be little air circulation on warmer days, which could cause heatstroke.
Final Thoughts
While adding levels to your hamster’s cage may seem like a great idea to increase the available space to explore and perform daily activities, it can be risky. In addition, it does not satisfy the total need for floor space. You must provide a cage with as much floor space as possible, not counting any levels or platforms. Alternatively, you can opt for other enclosures that satisfy these needs and may be safer.