Getting Started

When you first get a hamster, it can be pretty confusing on what to get and what not to get. Below, I have a list of the essentials to get for your hamster.

Cage: This is the most obvious and important item on the list. It doesn't matter whether you get an aquarium, plastic cage, or wire cage but I prefer the wire/plastic cage. It allows plenty of air to flow through and hamsters love to climb up the sides. I would strongly suggest not having an aquarium for a cage because air flow isn't quite as good, you can't attach any extension tubes to it, and it holds in heat or cold a lot more. But what ever cage works best for you is fine.

Water Bottle: Most cages come with a water bottle but if yours doesn't, you can pick one at any pet store. Make sure that your hamster can reach it when you put it in the cage. If you are worried that your hamster can't reach it, check for bite marks on the end of it after a few days.  If there are bites, it can reach. If not, move it down more or put a block of wood under it so that your fuzzy buddy can stand on it and reach.

Food/Food Bowl: Your hamster will need different amounts of food based on its size but it should be around 1 tbls. Find a dish or bowl that can hold a little more than this. But make sure that your hamster can't chew off pieces of it.

Chew Block: Your hamster will need something to chew on since their front teeth constantly grow. I suggest a treat-kabob. You can put different chews on it like apple wood twigs (my hamsters' favorite). Make sure your hamster can reach it when you hang it. I took the bell of mine since it is useless and takes up room.

Hiding Spot: All hamsters need somewhere to hide and feel safe. Some choices are an igloo house (sold at most pet stores), critter bath, and coconut hut (this is what I have and suggest). Don't mess with this part of his cage unless you are cleaning the cage. It is like your hamster's private room. You wouldn't want anyone messing with your room, would you?

Wheel: Your hamster will need to get exercise some how so this is very important. Any type of wheel works but I suggest a plastic one because wire ones have been known to hurt hamsters when their feet get stuck in the wire. Silent wheels are probably the best. (even though they aren't silent)

Ball: This is also for exercise. Get a hamster ball that is the right size for your hamster and that hamster can move comfortably in. They come in many colors!

So, now you have your list of essentials. You can add other toys for them now like toilet paper tubes (my hamster, Tito's, favorite). But make sure there is still plenty of room to run around in there cage when you are finished. Now you have shopping list, get shopping! :)