As well as a place to sleep and rest, you should always include an exercise wheel. As scientists found in a study published in Arthritis and Rheumatology, exercise protects our furry friends against articular cartilage degeneration. Hamsters are also naturally active and exercising not only releases endorphins but helps to reduce boredom.
“A wheel is a really valuable bit of cage furniture as they do enjoy running in them,” says Argrave. “But it's really important that the wheel is big enough – most wheels sold for hamsters are too small and can be harmful. Your hamster's spine should be straight when they're on their wheel. If it's curved then the wheel is too small and too much time in it could cause the hamster pain.”
Otherwise, ensure a hamster has plenty to gnaw on and provide toys that allow digging and burrowing. Interactive toys are also great for a hamster's mind. “A thick layer of a good quality substrate in the bottom of the cage will enable the hamster to burrow and bury things.
“Paper or card based substrates are best as wood shavings and sawdust have been linked with respiratory and liver problems in some small animals. Shelves and ledges strategically fixed to the bars of the cage will keep things interesting and help make the most of all the space in the cage too.”