Never strike a hamster or gerbil because this will only make it more fearful of people. If a hamster squeals or runs away when trying to handle it, simply give it some time. It probably just needs some time to go to its bathroom spot or groom itself. Toys Toys provide visual, mental, and physical stimulation for your companion hamster and gerbil when you are not available. Choose toys that are the appropriate size, again keeping safety as your primary consideration.
Toys made of nontoxic materials are available.
Multi-level cages are fun as are the ones with tubes and trails, but these can be added as time and finances permit. A variety of hamster houses are available from simple wooden boxes to more complex homes designed to imitate subterranean burrows. As with the cage, these houses should be cleaned when they become soiled or dirty. The cage should be spacious enough for the animals to move about freely and should allow adequate ventilation. A solid floor is necessary to prevent hock or foot sores.