(Part 2) Best products from r/hamsters

no critter trail, no habitrail.
perfect cage for a single syrian hamster in my opinon:

http://www.amazon.com/Prevue-Hendryx-SP2060R-Hamster-Bordeaux/dp/B005VEWFUS/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1377710691&sr=8-12&keywords=hamster+cage

i took one of the levels and houses off, and put a big silent wheel on the right side instead, and a small wooden maze on the ground level to the left. now, i have the happiest syrian ever.

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-get a liter box! there's like little plastic bins that you attach to a corner of the cage and put critter litter on it (both can be find at any petco, petsmart, general pet store). they tend to always use the same corner for pooping, so instead of cleaning the cage every two weeks, you get to clean it every month or so. the litter box you change every few days, depending on how dirty it seems.

-the hamster must be given attention once a day. even if you don't have time to let her out for long, just hold her in your hand for a minute or two. this will help form a very strong bond. now, every time i come home, my boy tupac is always against his cage bars hoping to be pet a little. makes me so happy.

-now my number one trick in keeping a healthy hamster is a healthy, varied diet. i like to buy two different kinds of food and then alternate between those (or mixing) everytime i refill their bowl. i also make sure to get plenty of varied treats, such as honey seed clusters and yogurt drops. sometimes when i'm having something that i can give to them to eat safely, i'll also share some of my food(bread, fruits, vegetables, etc).

-8" wheel size minimum. like i said before, silent spinners are THE BEST.

-an outside-the-cage playpen would be amazing for her. it gives her the opportunity to run full speed and have some adventures.

-change her water bottle every 2 or 3 days, even if there is still water. it's good to keep it fresh for them :)

In the U.S., the best you can do is a Detolf-DIY cage.

Other options are:

• A 40 gallon breeder tank
  
  
• Clear storage bin with at least 450 square inches of floor space (ideally 650+)
  
  
• Prevue 528 or Lixit Hamster Heaven or Lixit Savic X-Large
  
  
• This awesome but super expensive tank (now on my wish list)
  
  You'll get the most inches per dollar with the Detolf, but for a Syrian you'll probably want to make some sort of DIY mesh lid. There are lots of super great examples on this sub.
  
  Anything you get will need to accommodate a wheel that is at least 10". The Silent Runner is a great wheel. You can also get an 11" Wodent Wheel off Amazon, and lots of people like Carolina Storm wheels (10" and available off Etsy).

Hiya! Stacked bins won’t do her much good, especially if she is a chewer, Syrians are notorious for chewing through bin cages. I highly recommend switching to a detolf if you have the space, they are about 5 foot long and 16 inches wide by 16 inches tall. I had my male Syrian in a 40 gallon breeder and he was so bored even with all the toys he had. It was as if he had no real reason to walk around. Now, the length of his detolf makes him so much more active. I highly recommend you refrain from the plastic tunnel since your girl is a biter. If you have a play pen and supervise her it will be safe, just don’t leave it unsupervised in her cage.

As for toys, I highly recommend puzzle toys, boredom’s breakers, anything that can hold treats (wicker balls are great examples. Just stuff them with a few sunflower seeds and she will be entertained for hours. Here are some toys I have for my male Syrian along with a YouTube link to some easy DIY boredom breakers.

https://youtu.be/qAi-lcrI5Yw (the corrugated cardboard will come with an Ikea (or target) cube base to put the detolf on, so win win.

Hamster Toys,Wooden Scaling Ladder Rainbow Seesaw Swing Hanging Ladder Bridge for Hamsters,Fun Play Toy for Pet (Pack of 2) (Hamster Toy) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTS1YID/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_kteEDbYHHSN5B

Habitrail OVO Tree House Carboad Hamster Maze https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000XG0DJO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LteEDb62DJMXZ

Hkim Hamster Maze, Meago Natural Wood Toy with Acrylic Cover Dwarf Mouse Cage Tubes Gerbil Maze for Small Furry Animals (Wood Maze) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0773LKHSD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_xueEDbD9YMDGW

(I have this for my Syrian because he is super slim. If your girl is chonky don’t buy it)
Dwarf Hamster House Durable Odorless Non-Toxic Deluxe Two Layers Wooden Hut for Hamster Toys Hamster House Natural Living Wooden Castle, Small Animal Playground Chew Toy (1castle Set) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G73GF5B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yveEDb6G58466

Sleep 'n' Play Cheese - Hamster & Small Animal Toy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008J2CRAC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CweEDb56C14E5

(Put a small pile of hay in this and she will go nuts) Kaytee Nut Knot Knibbler https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002DJEYI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lxeEDbY2X1JX1

Hamster Toys,Wooden Scaling Ladder Rainbow Seesaw Swing Hanging Ladder Bridge for Hamsters,Fun Play Toy for Small Animals https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078C6MDW3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WAeEDbQC5WKTV

Kaytee Carousel Chew Toy Carrot, Large https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005BV0W9M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_kBeEDbABER5SH

TeDUnaxxme Toy Cute Small Animal Pet Hamster Sleeping House Cabin Cage Ladder Nest Castle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T9XLRR6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_OBeEDb5PNMB46

My Syrian hamster has been very happy in this cage for the entire first year of his life so far. After a few days of exploratory climbing he has not once chewed on his bars or ever acted stressed because he wants out of his home.

30.5 x 8.5 x 18.5 inches:
http://www.amazon.com/Kaytee-Habitat-Multi-Level-Exotics-18-Inch/dp/B00CETSHN2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Excersize:
I recommend purchasing a Wodent Wheel 11inch http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JD8I2Y/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687462&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B005Y41UPQ&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1JBB5ENE1BEBPRFYR6JR

and Flying Saucer 12 inches : http://www.amazon.com/Ware-Flying-Saucer-Exercise-4-Inch/dp/B001AT62H0/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1462212985&sr=1-1-fkmr1&keywords=flying+saucer+hamster+11+inch

Bathing and Natural Nail Trimming:
Also pick up some flat Reptile Rocks for underneath his water bottle so he will trim his nails naturally and a large ceramic bowl (needs to be deep not so much wide) filled with Repti Sand Desert White (No Calcium) http://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-ReptiSand%C2%AE-Pounds-Desert/dp/B0002DIZKC/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1462213181&sr=1-1&keywords=desert+white+repti+sand

My hamster is a fan of these Apple Orchard sticks for teeth filing though his lab blocks are semi hard and also good for dental health trimming.
http://www.amazon.com/SuperPet-Apple-Orchard-Sticks-Pieces/dp/B001CCXMP0/ref=sr_1_2?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1462213890&sr=1-2&keywords=apple+wood+sticks

After you get those things pick up this item as a natural grass burrow for him to sleep in and clean his cage once every week. Plastic burrow are just awful for air circulation, and my hamster never liked them at all when i didnt know any better.

http://www.amazon.com/Ware-Nature-Willow-Grass-Small/dp/B001ATBMCU?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00

For food I feed my hamster Higgins Sunburst and Kaytee Forti Diet Lab blocks everyday with fresh fruit and veggies every two days. Remember your hamster stomach is the size of your pinky finger nail so portion small. He loves 3-4 lab blocks a day with a small spoonful of nuts, seeds and fruit from the Higgins. Remember though 3 Sunflower Seeds max a day or they will get fat and unhealthy.

http://www.amazon.com/Higgins-Sunburst-Gourmet-Hamsters-Gerbils/dp/B009GHII5W/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1462213536&sr=1-1&keywords=higgins+sunburst

Looks like this but for Hamster not rat and mice:
http://www.amazon.com/Kaytee-Forti-Health-Mouse-5-Pound/dp/B001VJ56Z8/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1462213507&sr=1-1&keywords=kaytee+forti+hamster

For bedding you want UNSCENTED (it messes with their respiratory system if its scented) this Kaytee Clean and Cozy is what I use. Absorbs liquid good and keeps the smell down if its close to cleaning day.

http://www.amazon.com/Kaytee-Clean-Cozy-Small-Bedding/dp/B015MJB8PO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1462214215&sr=1-2&keywords=kaytee+bedding

and last but not least. Buy TWO water bottles in case one of them jams overnight you DO NOT want your hamster to suffer from dehydration. They do not need much water, but when they need it, they need it fast or will get sick quick. The kaytee water bottles have issues with the spout pointing straight so buyer beware. They often dont align properly into the cage bars. But they do work and dont leak for me. Stick with GLASS water bottles, it just tastes better honestly. 6 ounces if you will change the water daily. 12 ounces if you are not as attentive.

http://www.amazon.com/Kaytee-SSR61982-Animal-Bottle-12-Ounce/dp/B007TUNWM2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1462214981&sr=8-4&keywords=kaytee+water+bottle

It seems like a lot of money at first and it is but this hamster will be your new furry friend and relies on only you to care for it, so give it the best and longest life possible. You will have one happy hamster if you get all that and will never need to upgrade anything when your Syrian grows bigger.

That cage is too small for two dwarf hamsters. That cage is too small for one dwarf hamster. What's important is floor space, and that cage has nearly none. It's very gimmicky and looks appealing to people, but it's not a good cage for the hamster.

See if getting a bigger cage helps--- it doesn't matter how tall it is, extra floors add play space, not cage space :) Look for a tank that's at least equivalent to a 10g fish tank, a 15g fish tank would be better for two boys. Boys especially need a large habitat so they have their own "space" in it if they need it.

I've never had a problem with ventilation in an aquarium tank, as long as you clean the habitat on a regular basis. Dwarf hamsters especially don't urinate as much as Syrians due to their being from desertlike areas where water is scarce. But if you prefer to go with a wire cage, just make sure it has enough floor space. This one is a good size, as is this. Please note that I am not saying those particular cages are good, I have no experience with them and do not like the half-floors as hamsters are dumb and will walk right off of them. But those cage sizes are good.

Wooden platform (they easily bolt onto the cage wires)

Another.

Another.

 

Wooden log

 

Arch made of sticks: I have three of these in Max's cage and pens, they're great for hiding under and climbing over. If you wedge some small seeds in between the sticks it will encourage scratching.]

 

Wooden wheel: these are good because it's the constant rubbing of the claws through running that gets them and keeps them a nice length

 

Wooden rainbow: you can get one with colours as well

 

Wooden seesaw

 

You can use a wooden ramp or ladder. If you use it between the ground and a shelf or two shelves

Another.

 

Other accessories: again squashing little seeds in between the woven parts should encourage scratching to get it out

Twisted grass

Grass ball

Wooden hut

Another

I’ve had my wooden wheel for a couple weeks now and it’s still been super quite. It worked well with my all natural theme.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J65QQJZ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

If you like plastic more, there’s also the silent runner which I have heard rave reviews but haven’t used myself. If you have a smaller hamster, the 9’ should do just fine, but you may need the 12’ to make sure he’s running safely.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019RH7PPE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_-uBnDbXN376P3

I’m sorry to hear about your silent spinner! Hope this helps.

Here's what I use for our Syrian's water bottle.

As for taming, I definitely recommend watching ErinsAnimals. I'm taming our new hamster at the moment and she's just about getting the hang of it after nearly a month - it took three weeks for her to get over her aversion to hands! Take her into a confined space (like a pen or bathtub) where she can get more used to your scent and your movements and just chat to her whenever you're with her. Top tip for handling: After washing your hands, rub them in her bedding/sawdust/etc so she recognises it as a safe smell.

But as you say, patience is key. Be consistent with taming her every day and be mindful of her mood. A 5 minute session is still as beneficial as a 15 minute session!

Good luck :)

Petco is having a dollar/gallon sale! Aquariums are great for hamsters. A 40 gallon would give plenty of room for fun! Come visit us at /r/hamstercare there are a few hamster experts over there who will have tons of advice!

EDIT:

I don't think the new cage meets the minimum square footage, I'd definitely go with an aquarium. The minimum size for a hamster is the size of a 20G long. A 40 gallon would be perfect!

Edit: Have you tried a flying saucer or even a wooden wheel? The metal wheels tend to have small holes in them and that can be dangerous for hamster feet. (make sure the wheel is at least 8.5 inches in diameter, 12 is better for most syrian hams)

I don't think most hamsters will drink from a bowl of water. What kind of bottles have you tried?

Do you have plenty of toys and other things for the ham to chew on? Have you tried cardboard tubes? Mine go nuts for some cardboard! Normally when a ham is bar chewing it's a sign of boredom, have you tried having some time in a playpen?

If you do get an aquarium you can attatch it to the glass on the inside using velcro tape. (I use the glass bottles with a flat back) http://www.amazon.com/Kaytee-Chew-Proof-Water-Bottle-26-Ounce/dp/B000HHQ70S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420755980&sr=8-1&keywords=glass+hamster+bottle

I hope you are able to find something soon. I see a lot of people using this wheel, but it’s pretty pricey. While I can’t say for certain that it’s quiet, the reviews seem to think it is and it’s called a silent runner, lol. I would for sure check out petsmart for bedding, I know the prices aren’t the same here and in Canada but their website price has to be cheaper than amazons aspen.

I know you mentioned ceramic, but the only ceramic item in his home is a clamshell I use as his potty.

my little guy currently loves sleeping in this house right now.

he used to sleep in here before I added his current one.

I got this bridge in medium & push it up against a wall & he likes to hang out in there sometimes to clean himself.

& lastly, I’m considering buying this space pod as a possible nap/hangout spot for him.

I love this playpen! Unsure if you can get it in the Netherlands. It is the only playpen my syrian can't climb out of! I liked it so much that I bought another and connect the two fences together to make a huge playpen that I can sit in with my ham :)

Nah they don't eat it, they kind of rub it on their face and also use it to pee in sometimes.

The Carolina storm wheel is pretty good for Syrians, it's 10.5 inches and really quiet, but you can only get it online.

A really good option for tunnels is the bendy bridges and there is this, which is kinda big but you could just not expand all of it.

I had my last hamster in the UK and it was so much easier to get Syrian sized tubes and stuff :c I wish more eu sites did us shipping.

I’m sure you put in a lot of hard work to make this but more than one stacked on top of each other like that honestly doesn’t make any difference. Hamsters need to have over 450 square inches of unbroken floor space. I’d suggest looking into these cages:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074FH47MQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_W9hmDb1C7KY00

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003QRPAR2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_faimDbC7GF5T7

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003QRMBG0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_QdimDb93TEFMN

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DXWPG6C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_OgimDbSAX6MG2

Also look into a 40 gallon breeder aquarium, a diy bin cage (great tutorials online) or an IKEA Deltof (also tutorials online).

this is the exact playpen i used. the dimensions are perfect and each grid sits nicely on the metal bars of the detolf. i used a hammer to pull it apart into a 3-panel piece and a 1-panel piece

if you're not crafty like me and want a simpler lid than building a wood+wire mesh one, this is a super easy option!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000HHQ70S/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1458612004&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=kaytee+glass+water+bottle&dpPl=1&dpID=41C57E2eN-L&ref=plSrch


This is what I use. Panda ended up chewing the plastic ones and I didn't notice until she had no water and her cage was sopping wet. Only thing with the glass one is that it might rust a little, so get 2 or 3. I've had one for well over 7 months before it started looking like it was rusting. There are different holders depending on which cage set up you have. There's one for tanks and one for wire cages that you can find on Amazon. Hope that helps!

I found something that is around the same size as the detolf online so i'm going to look into getting that! I'm definitely getting her something bigger. Would something like this be appropriate in size or should I opt for something like the detolf which is a little over 900 square inches?

​

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DIIEAAC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's about the size of the Savic Mickey 2 XL that I have for my Syrian. He is quite happy in it and has plenty of room for the wheel (he uses a 9" or 10", I tried several wheels and don't remember which I finally settled on. I just remember 8" was too small and 12" too large). And plenty of room to burrow. Just be sure to add plenty of bedding for digging. I use Carefresh paper bedding and fill the tray all the way up.

Awesome!! It's the SONGMICS pet playpen??

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FQ411ZH

No this cage is not nearly big enough. To put it into perspective, it’s 24x12 inches. The wheel is just one of the many things you need in a cage, and the wheel itself needs to be 12 inches.

I’m not too clued up about cages in the US but at the end of the day, a proper cage is part of the essential care of your pet and should be factored into the cost of owning it. It’s one of those things, if you can’t afford an appropriate home for your pet, how will you afford to take it to the vets if it gets sick? All pets are expensive, even little ones.

I had this one and loved it.

https://www.amazon.com/Little-Friends-Grosvenor-Hamster-Wooden/dp/B00OFPLT60/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?keywords=wooden+hamster+cage&qid=1572268901&sr=8-6

Or obviously you have the option of bin cages if you’re set on getting a hamster and not willing to spend the money needed. Victoria Rachael on YouTube has a video about making a cheap bin cage

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=i57deM8u77U

This video is “owning a hamster on a budget”

Every cute little ceramic bowl or hideout big enough is what I use. Maybe this? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XWR26PV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PpZjDbYPT4CGT

Bottle stands are a good choice. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-World-Green-Water-Bottle/dp/B00EQFP20S

I have been feeding him this food mix https://www.amazon.com/Higgins-Sunburst-Gourmet-Hamsters-Gerbils/dp/B009GHII5W and Usually give him vegetables every day or every other day like lettuce, carrots, bell peppers etc.

here's the link to the cage I got: https://www.amazon.com/Lixit-Animal-Care-Hamster-X-Large/dp/B003QRMBG0 It comes with a little wire platform, but I took it out to avoid bumblefoot related issues.