Housing A cage measuring 60 x 30 x 30 cm. is a minimum size for hamsters, gerbils and mice. Rats require larger habitats. Absorbent materials such as white wood shavings should be used to line the cage bottom. Gerbils and hamsters like to dig and burrow so adding a layer of peat moss allows them to exercise this behaviour. Inside the cage, rodents should have a cardboard or wooden house, toys such as plastic tubes and small boxes, some shredded tissue for nest building and an exercise wheel for smaller rodents.
Secure cages are a necessity as rodents, especially hamsters and rats, are real escape artists.
A common cause of death in rodents is neglect. These animals are small and can easily be forgotten. They must be fed fresh food and clean water daily. Once a week the cage and water bottle should be cleaned thoroughly. This can easily be handled by a child, but parents should check regularly to make sure the animal is well cared for.