Hamster Cage

There are two main types of hamster cages, the more traditional wire bar or the plastic tank style (often known by the brand name Rotastak) hamster cages.

Which is right for you and your pet will depend on the type of hamster you have (Syrians grow larger than Dwarf hamsters and tend to need a larger cage) and also the space you have and the money you want to spend to select from the range of hamster cages.

The main differences can be set out as follows:

Wire Bar Hamster Cage

• Hamsters like to gnaw and the wire bars are great for this and help keep teeth in good condition
• The base of the cage is easy to clean, but the bars will not stop sawdust from being spread around
• Your hamster will also use the bars to climb and for exercise
• A large wire hamster cage can be more expensive than the plastic alternative

Plastic Tank Type, or Rotastak Hamster Cage

• As there are no bars to gnaw, you will need to introduce other items for your hamster to chew.
• Additional toys may be needed to provide exercise for your hamster
• Location of water bottles and food bowls is less flexible than on wire cages
• The sawdust will be well contained, but taking some tank style hamster cages apart for cleaning can take some time
• Hamster cages like this can be cheaper than wire style hamster cages.

Hopefully this overview will help you select the right hamster cage for you and your pet. Have a look as some of the hamster cages available today and see our reviews and comments from other hamster owners.

We also have guides on choosing a hamster cage for a Syrian hamster