In the wild, hamsters must travel long distances in search of food. Since they are used to getting a lot of exercise, it is important to care for these needs once in captivity. Exercise wheels are beneficial. For Syrian hamsters, the wheel's diameter should be a minimum of 8 inches. Only use wheels with solid surfaces. Those with rungs present the opportunity for a leg to get caught and break.
Chewables are important to help file the incisor teeth. Dog biscuitsor pesticide free twigs from fruit trees, hazelnut bushes, willows, or maples can be given. For play, cardboard boxes and toilet-paper or paper towel rolls are appropriate. A wooden ladder can be installed in the habitat as hamsters like to climb.
It is important to let the hamster leave the cage every day. Keep a careful eye on him. Plastic tubs make good play pins.
Hamsters are explorers. Keep introducing new items to the habitat they can check out. However, never allow the hamster roam in an exercise ball. Exercise balls are only stressful and dangerous.
Hamsters prefer to sleep during the day, so it is best to play with and care for them in the evening. The bathroom space should be cleaned out frequently, and the cage should be cleaned every week. Do not be surprised to find stockpiles of fresh food as the creatures like to store. The water bottle and slipper tube should be cleaned daily and checked to see if it is working properly. Food, algae, and bacteria can stop up the water, so it is important to keep the water supply fresh.
Dwarf hamsters can have a dust bath a couple times a week. The bathing dust is available at most local pet stores. The dust should be placed in a ceramic bowl in the exercise area not the cage. As long as it is not soiled, the dust can be reused.
The tank should be disinfected weekly. After cleaning, it is important to let the tank dry before laying down fresh bedding. Then replace the hamster's chewing, climbing, and nesting toys.
To remove your hamster from the tank, use a small box. Because of his curious nature, he most likely will run right into the box explore, and you can safely lift him up. When handling the hamster, make sure your hands are clean, and they do not smell of food, or you could get bit as the hamster might mistake your finger.