Hamsters will readily chew through wood and light plastic. Wire, stainless steel, durable plastic, and glass are recommended caging materials. Glass and plastic containers, however, may reduce ventilation and lead to problems with temperature and humidity requirements. Glass and plastic materials can make suitable cages if at least one side of the enclosure is open for air circulation. The enclosure should be escape-proof.
Hamsters thrive in solid-bottom cages with deep bedding and ample nesting material.
Adult hamsters require a minimum floor area of 19 square inches and a cage height of at least 6 inches. Female breeding hamsters require much larger areas for housing them and their litter just before weaning. Twelve-hour light cycles are preferred, as hamsters are more active during the night. Bedding must be clean, nontoxic, absorbent, relatively dust-free, and easily acquired. Shredded paper or tissue and processed corncob are all appropriate.