If you have ever had a hamster, you know all about its tank size. But what about the Syrian hamster, the biggest hamster of them all? While you know what to feed it and how to keep it happy, do you know how much bigger its tank should be?
A Syrian hamster’s tank needs to be a minimum of 20 gallons (75.7 liters), but the recommended size is up to 50 gallons (189 liters). The minimum size of the base of the tank should be 24 by 12 inches (61 by 30.5 cm) with a height of 12 inches (30.5 cm).
In this article, I’ll explain why Syrian hamsters need a larger tank than smaller hamsters. I’ll also reveal what a good tank for your hamster should contain and how to pick the best one to keep your hamster happy and active, so read on!
Get Tank That’s Big Enough
The tank size is extremely important when it comes to the Syrian hamster. Unlike other hamsters, Syrian hamsters are quite large and can grow 8 inches (20 cm) in size.
Not only are they big, but they are also very active and need a lot of space for running around, exploring, and burrowing.
This space requirement is why bigger is always better. Although your Syrian hamster will happily live in a 20-gallon (75.7 liters) tank, to have it really thriving, pick a tank with a 50-gallon (189 liters) volume.
I recommend this OIIBO 50-Gallon Terrarium (available on Amazon). This glass tank with two wire fences and a mesh top screen is a fantastic option for your Syrian hamster.
With a base of 36 by 18 inches (91 by 46 cm) and an 18 inches (46 cm) height, this tank offers enough space for everything a happy Syrian hamster needs. It has a safety lock and a sliding door making it easier for you to clean it, and it is made of high-quality tempered glass and aluminum to ensure long-term use.
OIIBO 50 Gallon Reptile Terrarium,36" x 18" x 18" Knock Down Glass Reptile Tank, Sliding Door Terrariums Habitat for Reptiles Amphibians, Alternative Side Wire Mesh for Small Animals Use
How To Pick a Good Tank for Your Syrian Hamster
When choosing a good tank for your Syrian hamster, there are a few other things you should keep in mind besides the tank size. The tank should be well-ventilated, secure, safe for the hamster, and easy to clean.
Tank Ventilation
Although Syrian hamsters have a better immune system than most hamsters, they can still have respiratory problems. This vulnerability is why it is important for their tanks to be well-ventilated.
Effective ventilation can be particularly difficult to achieve in a glass tank, so opt for one with wire mesh side fences and a wire mesh top screen when choosing the tank. The screens will help the air circulate better, keeping your hamster healthy.
Security and Safety of the Tank
Since, unlike wire cages, a glass tank doesn’t have wires your hamster can wiggle their way out or chew on and escape; there is still the matter of the top wire mesh. To stop the potential escape, ensure the mesh is secure and fits well on the tank.
If your tank has levels, check for any places the hamster could fall from and remove the danger in advance.
Easy Cleaning Access
Since large glass tanks are quite heavy, and your hamster needs a big one, keep that in mind when picking a tank. Choose a tank that has sliding glass doors — this will make cleaning simple and hassle-free.
You need to be able to move and clean the tanks easily since they will need to be cleaned at least once a week. Also, ensure that you keep your hamster in a safe and secure location while you’re cleaning.
What Should a Tank Contain?
A tank for your Syrian hamster should contain a water bottle and a food bowl. It should also have a sand bath and a nesting box. The box is important because it is a little place they can sleep and hide from unwanted attention.
The tank should also have enough bedding for the floor to be soft and for the hamster to burrow inside it. The bedding should be absorbent and non-toxic, and there should be at least 10 inches (25 cm) of it in the tank.
Since Syrian hamsters can run up to 5 and a half miles (9 km) a night in the wild, keeping your hamster active is imperative to keep it happy and healthy. This need for activity is why a good tank should contain a hamster wheel, lots of toys, and, ideally, a few levels.
Conclusion
Since the Syrian hamster is much bigger than its hamster cousins, it also needs a larger tank. These energetic little explorers are very active and need a lot of room to play and exercise. Unless they have enough space, they can develop anxiety, stress, or even aggression.
Another problem that comes hand in hand with not enough space is obesity, so if you want to be a responsible hamster parent and ensure your hamster has a long, healthy, stress-free, and stimulating life, buy it a large tank and fill it with lots of toys.