Hey there! It’s your pal Matt here, and I just wanted to share some of my thoughts on one of my favorite pets: hamsters.
These little critters are super cute, super low-maintenance, and make for the perfect first pet for kids (or adults who are still kids at heart like me).
One question I get a lot from people who are thinking about getting a hamster is: how long should they be out of their cage a day? Well, I’m here to give you the lowdown.
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How Long Should Hamsters Be Out of Their Cage?
First things first: hamsters are nocturnal, so they’ll naturally be more active at night. That being said, it’s still important to give them plenty of opportunities to play and explore during the day.
So, how long should they be out of their cage? It really depends on the size of the cage and the size of your hamster.
A general rule of thumb is to aim for at least an hour of playtime per day. This can be broken up into several shorter play sessions if that works better for you and your schedule.
If your hamster’s cage is on the smaller side (less than 50 square inches), you may want to aim for closer to two hours of playtime per day. This will help ensure that your little buddy gets enough exercise and stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
Where Should My Hamster Play?
When it comes to giving your hamster playtime, it’s important to make sure they have a safe, supervised space to explore.
This can be a playpen, a large plastic tub, or even just a designated area of your home (just make sure to hamster-proof it first!).
Some hamster-approved playtime activities include:
- Running on a hamster wheel
- Playing with toys and chew sticks
Exploring a hamster ball - Climbing and crawling through tubes and tunnels
Just make sure to always supervise your hamster while they’re out of their cage, and never leave them alone in an area where they could potentially escape or get into something dangerous.
FAQ
Can I leave my hamster out of their cage all day?
While it’s important for hamsters to get plenty of playtime, it’s not a good idea to leave them out of their cage all day.
Hamsters still need a safe, secure place to sleep and hide, and leaving them out all day can be stressful for them.
What if my hamster seems bored during playtime?
If your hamster seems bored during playtime, it could be a sign that they need more stimulation. Try adding new toys or changing up their play area to keep things interesting.
You can also try giving them more playtime, or breaking it up into shorter, more frequent sessions.
My hamster is really active at night. Is it okay to give them playtime then?
Absolutely! Hamsters are naturally more active at night, so it can be a great time to give them some extra playtime.
Just be sure to keep the noise level down if you have roommates or neighbors who might be sleeping.
Conclusion: Hamsters Are the Best
In conclusion, hamsters are the ultimate low-maintenance pet. They’re cute, cuddly, and make for the perfect first pet for kids (or adult kids like me).
Just remember to give them plenty of playtime (aim for at least an hour a day) and make sure they have a safe, supervised space to play.
And if you’re ever unsure about something, don’t be afraid to consult with your veterinarian or do some research online.
So if you’re thinking about getting a hamster, go for it! These little guys are the best. Happy hamstering!