The "To Keep Up" Wiki

The size of the cage you need depends on the number of hamsters and their species, as some require more space than others:

• For One Hamster:
  • Minimum floor space: 450 square inches (e.g., 24“ x 18.75”).
  • Larger is always better, as hamsters are active and need space to explore.
• For Two Hamsters:
  • If you’re housing dwarf hamsters (e.g., Roborovski or Campbell's), they can sometimes live together. You’ll need at least 600 square inches of floor space and multiple hiding spots to avoid territorial conflicts.
  • Syrian hamsters must always be housed alone, as they are highly territorial.

• Ensure the bars are close enough to prevent escape:
  • Dwarf hamsters: ≤ 0.25 inches.
  • Syrian hamsters: ≤ 0.5 inches.

• Bin cages (DIY plastic storage containers): Affordable and spacious.
• Glass aquariums: Provide great visibility and prevent escapes.
• Wire cages: Suitable but must meet size and bar spacing requirements.

• Include the following:
  • An exercise wheel (minimum size: 8 inches for dwarfs, 10–12 inches for Syrians).
  • Tunnels and chew toys for enrichment.
  • Plenty of bedding for digging.

Hamsters need a balanced diet consisting of pellets, seeds, fresh vegetables, and occasional treats. Here's what you should consider when feeding your hamster:

• High-quality hamster pellets or lab blocks:
  • These provide a balanced and complete diet with the necessary vitamins and minerals.
  • Avoid seed-only mixes as they can lead to selective eating and nutritional deficiencies.
  • Brands to consider: Oxbow Essentials, Kaytee Forti-Diet, Higgins Sunburst (with pellets).

• If you use seed mixes, ensure they include pellets for balance.
• Avoid sugary or fatty seeds like sunflower seeds as a primary food source.

• Safe options: Carrot, cucumber, broccoli, zucchini, spinach, kale, bell peppers.
• Serve small, bite-sized pieces 2–3 times per week.
• Avoid: Onion, garlic, potato, and citrus fruits (toxic or too acidic).

• Safe options: Apple (no seeds), banana, blueberry, grape, strawberry.
• Serve sparingly due to sugar content (once or twice a week).

• Hamsters benefit from protein-rich foods:
  • Cooked egg (small piece).
  • Mealworms (dried or fresh).
  • Boiled chicken (unseasoned).

• Toxic foods: Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, raw beans, avocado, and citrus fruits.
• Sugary treats: Avoid sweetened foods to prevent diabetes, especially in dwarf hamsters.

• Frequency: Provide fresh food daily in small quantities. Hamsters will hoard food, so check their stash regularly to remove spoiled items.
• Fresh Water: Always provide clean water in a bottle or bowl.