HAMSTER INTRODUCTIONS

[Maz]

I really don't want to put a damper on all the things you've bought for him, but they are all quite small cages in terms of the uninterrupted floorspace a hamster needs. The only modular cage I know of that's big enough (and can have other things connected) is the Kaytee critterhome extra large.

https://www.kaytee.com/all-products/small-animal/kaytee-critterhome-42-x-18-extra-large-habitat

Although actually, the bar spacing is too big on the Critterhome extra large. A lot hamster owners in the US use a 40 gallon tank - some people make diy cages like a Linmon or a Detolf. The Prevue cage is ok as well if it's available (it wasn't for a while).

 

[Angel Eyes]

The modular cages look really fun but hamsters tend to do better with a large area for their nesting, wheel, food and toys. I learned this the hard way with our first Syrian.

Oh ok ill keep that in mind

 

[Maz]

There's a list of cages on the forum, suitable for a Syrian, although to be fair not many of them are available in the US, which is why a lot of US owners use detolfs and tanks.

It comes from a welfare minimum really - as Beryl mentioned - Syrians need at least a 10" wheel - ideally 11" or bigger - to run properly so a cage needs to be able to fit that. Many modular cages are sold with a wheel that is far too small meaning a hamster can't run with a straight back and that can lead to pain and back problems for them - or frustration and pent up energy if they stop using it because it's uncomfortable.

So the main cage needs to be able to fit a Syrian sized wheel - add-on units are fine for extra enrichment, but it's better to get as big a cage as you can - and at least 80cm by 50cm.

Pet stores sell these things but it doesn't mean they're suitable. I'd suggest finding something else for Dash and taking the others back for a refund because you must have spent a fair bit of money on all those things. Even if they've been used. We've had hamster owners do that before - returning them and saying - this isn't suitable for a Syrian hamster.

 

[Angel Eyes]

There's a list of cages on the forum, suitable for a Syrian, although to be fair not many of them are available in the US, which is why a lot of US owners use detolfs and tanks.

It comes from a welfare minimum really - as Beryl mentioned - Syrians need at least a 10" wheel - ideally 11" or bigger - to run properly so a cage needs to be able to fit that. Many modular cages are sold with a wheel that is far too small meaning a hamster can't run with a straight back and that can lead to pain and back problems for them - or frustration and pent up energy if they stop using it because it's uncomfortable.

So the main cage needs to be able to fit a Syrian sized wheel - add-on units are fine for extra enrichment, but it's better to get as big a cage as you can - and at least 80cm by 50cm.

Pet stores sell these things but it doesn't mean they're suitable. I'd suggest finding something else for Dash and taking the others back for a refund because you must have spent a fair bit of money on all those things. Even if they've been used. We've had hamster owners do that before - returning them and saying - this isn't suitable for a Syrian hamster.

I will see what I can do. Thank you.