As a hamster owner, providing a safe and comfortable living environment for your furry friend is essential for their well-being. One of the most important purchases you will make for your hamster is their cage.
A hamster cage provides a secure place for your hamster to call home and allows them to engage in natural behaviors like burrowing, climbing, and exploring. Choosing the right cage can be overwhelming with so many options available, but with a bit of research and care, you can find the perfect home for your beloved pet.
In this article, I will explore and answer the question “how big should a hamster cage be” and what to consider when selecting one, so you can provide your hamster with a comfortable and happy living space. Later, you’ll also see a list of our recommended big hamster cages.
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THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING OR BUILDING A HAMSTER CAGE
Before purchasing or building a hamster cage, there are a few important things to consider. Below, I will answer a few yet vital questions regarding hamster cage sizes to help you decide the most suitable enclosure for your pet.
Do hamsters need big cages
Yes, hamsters require a lot of space because they are active creatures that need a roomy space to move around and explore. A big cage allows them to engage in natural behaviours like running, burrowing, and climbing, which is essential for their physical and mental well-being.
By providing your hamster with a spacious living environment, you are helping to ensure they live a happy and healthy life. In a bit, I will list the required cage sizes depending on the species of hamsters.
How big does a hamster cage have to be
The size of a hamster cage is crucial in providing a comfortable living space for your furry friend. Generally, the enclosure should have at least 450 square inches of floor space for a single hamster.
Another thing you should keep in mind is your country’s policy when it comes to hamster cage size. Countries such as the US, Canada, the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, and many parts of the world have set rules when it comes to hamster cage sizes.
If your country doesn’t have one, you can stick to the general idea, which you will find out in a bit.
Can a hamster cage be too big
No, not at all. The bigger is always better when it comes to hamster cages. Providing your hamster with a spacious living area allows them to engage in natural behaviors, promotes good health, and reduces stress.
A larger cage also means you can include more toys and accessories to keep your pet entertained and happy.
HOW BIG SHOULD A HAMSTER CAGE BE
In general, on our site, we recommend 100x50x50 cm (39x20x20 in) for Dwarf and Chinese hamsters. For male Syrian hamster is 100 x 60 x 60 cm (40x 24 x 24 in) and for female Syrian hamsters is 120 x 50 x 50 cm (47 x 20 x 20 in).
Read >> Syrian hamster cages and Dwarf hamster cages
When it comes to different country rules:
USA/Canada
- Dwarf & Chinese: 620 sq in (4000 cm2) / 40 gal (150 Litres)
- Syrian: at least 850 sq in (5000 cm2) / 50 gal (190 Litres)
- Dwarf & Chinese: 39 x 20 x 20 in (100 x 50 x 50 cm)
- Male Syrian: 40 x 24 x 24 in (100 x 60 x 60 cm)
- Female Syrian: 47 x 31 x 31 in (120 x 80 x 80 cm)
United Kingdom
- Dwarf & Chinese: 100 x 50 x 50 cm (39 x 20 x 20 in)
- Syrian: 120 x 80 x 80 cm (47 x 31 x 31 in)
- Breeder tank: 40 gallons for Dwarf & Chinese and 50 gal for Syrian
Germany and Netherlands
- Dwarf & Chinese: 100 x 50×50 cm (39x20x20 in)
- Syrian: 120 x5 0x 50 cm (47 x 20 x 20 in)
BEST LARGE HAMSTER CAGES
Below is a recommended list of spacious enclosures for hamsters. I added the pros and cons of each cage and the size to help you decide which is best for your pet.
CHECKOUT: Best hamster enclosure designs from Reddit
Niteangel Aspen Cage
There are two types of Niteangel aspen cages. The one that has a flat top or the other with a slanted top. Then you can choose between light brown color or an apple green shade.
- size: 39.4 x 19.7 x 19.7 in (100 x 50 x 50 cm)
Living World Deluxe – XL
Living World’s enclosure is fantastic when it comes to size. The XL cage is big enough for all types of hamsters. However, since it’s a bar cage (it means there are metal bars), your hamster might chew on the cage and cause health issues in the future.
Another thing to remember is the space gaps between the metal bars. It can be too broad for Dwarf and Chinese hamsters; hence you must add a mesh wire over the bar to prevent your hamster from escaping.
- size: 46.9 x 22.8 x 24 in (119 x 58 x 61 cm)
Prevue Pet 528
This hamster enclosure is suitable for Dwarf or Chinese hamsters but can be too small for any Syrian hamsters. You might also have to add a mesh wire over if you plan to house a robo hamster. On the other hand, the metal bars provide great ventilation, especially if you live in a warm location.
- size: 32.5 x 19 x 17.5 in (82.55 x 48 x 44.5 cm)
Reptile Glass Tank 55 Gallons
You can also opt for a reptile glass tank. These are easy to clean and always give you a clear view of your pet. This is actually recommended for Syrian hamsters who love to chew on metal bars. The only downside here is the cost. Glass cages are often expensive, but you can check at secondhand stores.
- size: 48 x 24 x 18 in (122 x 61 x 45.7 cm)
IKEA Detolf
Many hamster owners love the glass bookcase from IKEA because it’s affordable and very spacious. You must lie it down on the ground and don’t add the dividers to maximise the space.
- size: 14.38 x 16.75 x 64.13 in (36.5 x 42.5 x 163 cm)
Plastic Bin Cage
If you’re looking for an affordable choice, a storage plastic box is another good choice. As long as you find the right size, it will work very well. The downside is finding the correct size and that a hamster can easily chew through plastic. But if you add a plastic wall (like a Tespo playpen) around it or metal mesh, it could help prevent your escaping after it makes a hole in the main cage.
- size: 33 x 20 x 13 in (84 x 51 x 33 cm)
Mewoofun Wood Cage
Mewoofun is similar to the Nitengel wood cage. It’s easy to assemble and a bit more affordable. The material is thinner than Niteangel, but it meets the size requirements. For this one, you can also choose between having the main access (or door) in the front or the top.
- size: 39.4 x 19.7 x 19.7 in
FINAL THOUGHTS
How big should a hamster cage be depends on your location and the species of hamster you have. Once you figure out the size you prefer, next is to decide what type of hamster cage you want to get.
Whether it’s made of plastic, metal, wood, or a glass cage, as long as it meets the size requirement, your hamster will surely have a great time there.
In conclusion, selecting the right hamster cage is an essential decision for any hamster owner. By providing a spacious and comfortable living environment, you are ensuring that your pet has the opportunity to engage in natural behaviors, maintain good health, and live a happy life.
Take the time to research and select a cage that meets your hamster’s needs, including appropriate size, ventilation, and safety. With a little care and attention, you can provide your furry friend with a home they will love and thrive in.