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Step 1
Select a hamster cage according to how many animals you plan to keep. Golden hamsters, also known as Syrians, need to a have a cage to themselves or else they will fight with others when they become adults. Dwarf or Russian hamsters can get along in groups, but only if the cages are large enough to allow each animal to have room to nest and relieve themselves.
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Step 2
Pick the largest cage that is practical for both you and your hamster. The more room that your hamster has to explore, run and exercise, the happier it will be. A cage that is less than 2 feet in every dimension will make your hamster feel claustrophobic, miserable and may make it more likely to bite you.
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Step 3
Choose a hamster cage that has plenty of air circulation. Hamsters can get sick if they are forced to breathe air from soiled bedding or stale water for too long. For this reason, a fish aquarium with a screen covering on top generally does not make an adequate cage for a hamster.
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Step 4
Find a hamster cage that will be easy for you to clean. Some cages allow you to slide the bottom out for a quick change of litter without disturbing your pets. A clear, plastic, modular cage will also be lighter and easier to handle during cleaning.
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Step 5
Use a hamster cage that is safe and secure and will keep your hamsters in while keeping other pets, such as cats and dogs, out. A hamster cage with a locking lid will be your best bet for protecting your pets.
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Step 6
Purchase a hamster cage that has room to expand through the addition of tunnels and bridges to other cages. While these types of cages may be difficult to clean, they will provide endless entertainment for the hamsters.
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Step 7
Try online sources, such as Future Pets, to select the right cage for your hamster (see Resources below).
