Hamsters are well-liked pets that many individuals take pleasure in maintaining in their own homes. If you now own a hamster and are considering purchasing a second one, you may be curious whether it is possible to house the second hamster in the cage that previously housed the first. You can, but you should keep a few things in mind to ensure the new hamster is comfortable and stays out of harm’s way. This article will walk you through the steps you need to do to introduce a new hamster into an existing cage properly.
Quik Answer
There are some steps to select an old cage for a new hamster
1: Consider the history of the cage
It is essential to think about the background of the ancient cage. If a sick or diseased hamster had been housed in the cage in the past, the cage might have been contaminated with microorganisms that can infect a new hamster.
In addition, if the previous hamster passed away from an infectious disease, it is possible that you should not introduce a new hamster into the same cage. In this scenario, getting a new cage is in everyone’s best interest so that the new hamster can have a long and healthy life.
2: Consider weather the cage
It’s crucial to consider the weather conditions of the cage to ensure the comfort and safety of your pet. Check the temperature and humidity conditions of the cage and the ventilation and airflow. Ensure that the cage is not exposed to direct sunlight or drafts, as excessive temperatures can damage your hamster’s health.
Before you bring in your new pet, make sure the cage has been meticulously cleaned and disinfected and has clean bedding, food, and water. You can ensure that your hamster will be happy and healthy in its new home by providing a cozy and risk-free atmosphere.
3: Clean the cage thoroughly
It is important to give an old cage a good cleaning to eliminate any lingering odors left behind by the previous hamster before putting in a new one and its new occupant. Hamsters are territorial animals, and if they smell the scent of another hamster in the cage, they may become hostile or territorial toward a new hamster that has been introduced into the cage.
Remove all the bedding, toys, and accessories when cleaning the cage and wash them in warm soapy water. Before you put them back in the cage, give each of them a thorough washing and make sure they are totally dry.
4: Disinfect the cage
After thoroughly cleaning the enclosure, you must disinfect it to eliminate any bacteria or germs that may have been left behind. To disinfect the cage, you may either use a disinfectant that is safe for pets or make a solution of white vinegar and water that has been diluted.
After applying the disinfectant or the vinegar solution to the cage and allowing it to sit for a few minutes, clean the cage by wiping it down with a fresh towel or a clean cloth. Before you replace the bedding, toys, and accessories, you must ensure that the cage has been fully cleaned with water and that you have given it enough time to dry completely.
6: Introduce new bedding
After thoroughly cleaning and drying the cage, you may replace the old bedding with new material. Because hamsters enjoy digging burrows, it is important to supply them with bedding at least two to three inches deep so they can do so. Bedding made of paper or wood shavings are both acceptable options; however, you should avoid using cedar or pine shavings because they may be detrimental to hamsters.
7: Add new toys and accessories
Put some new toys and accessories in the hamster’s cage so it will seem fresh and interesting to it when it is time to introduce it to its new home. You may provide your new hamster with a wheel, a tunnel, a hideout, or any number of other toys that it could find entertaining. Be sure to pick out toys and accessories for your hamster that are harmless to them and suitable for their size and how old they are.
8: Introduce the new hamster to the cage
When you have finished preparing the cage for the new hamster, it is time to begin acclimating the hamster to its new environment. Place the new hamster in a carrier or a temporary cage that is separate from the old cage, and then put the carrier or cage next to the old cage. Give the new hamster a few hours or a full day to investigate its temporary home, become accustomed to the new environment, and relax.
After the new hamster has had some time to get used to their new home, it will be time to move them into their previous cage. Put the new hamster in its home and pay close attention to how it behaves once it is there. Hamsters tend to be territorial, and it’s not unusual for them to argue with one another or fight when they’re initially introduced to one another. If the fighting is serious or continues for an extended 8-period, you may need to keep the hamsters apart for a few days before attempting to reintroduce them.
9: Monitor their behavior
After introducing the new hamster to the old cage, monitoring its behavior closely for the first few days is important. Make sure they’re eating, drinking, and behaving normally. If you notice any signs of aggression or distress, such as biting or squeaking, separate the hamsters and try introducing them again after a few days.
Conclusion
To summarize, it is normally acceptable to place a new hamster in an old cage as long as the previous cage is in good condition, suitable for the size and breed of the new hamster, and has been completely cleaned and disinfected. Nevertheless, it is essential to investigate the old cage’s background and acquire a brand-new one whenever there is even a remote possibility of contamination or infection. You can provide a secure and pleasant environment for your new hamster if you consider the aspects mentioned above.
FAQs:
Q: Is putting a new hamster in an old cage safe?
If the cage is in good condition and has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, it should be safe for a new hamster to live in. However, if the cage is damaged or contaminated with bacteria or pathogens, a new hamster may not be safe.
Q: Can I reuse a cage that previously housed a hamster that died of an illness?
Reusing a cage that previously housed a hamster that died of a contagious illness is not recommended. The cage may still be contaminated with pathogens that can infect a new hamster, and it is best to purchase a new cage to ensure the safety and health of the new hamster. Or read this post carefully, if you want to use old cage.
Q: What size should the cage be for a new hamster?
To know the best cage size for hamster, click here
Q: How should I clean an old cage before introducing a new hamster?
You should clean the cage with a pet-safe disinfectant and allow it to dry completely before introducing a new hamster. This will help reduce the risk of illness and ensure that the new hamster has a clean, safe home.
Q: What should I do if the old cage is damaged or rusty?
If the old cage is damaged or rusty, it may be unsafe for a new hamster. It is best to purchase a new cage to ensure the safety and comfort of your new pet.