Is A 40 Gallon Tank Good For A Hamster?
If you’re looking for a suitable home for your pet hamster and want to know whether or not you can use a 40-gallon tank, then the good news is that you can, although there are a few things to take into consideration. Syrian and Dwarf hamsters have different size requirements, although they’re still quite similar. With that being said, a 40-gallon tank is big enough for a hamster.
A 40-gallon tank is big enough to house two Dwarf hamsters. The most important measurement for the tank is the base size, which is the length and width of the tank. A Syrian hamster should have at least a minimum of a 24-inch x 12-inch base. If using a tank for your hamster, choose one that has more length than height to give your hamster more space to move around.
Although hamsters are small, they’re very active, therefore the height of the tank isn’t as important, compared to the size of the base, which will give them more space to move around. There are some key differences between Syrian and Dwarf hamsters to consider before using a tank, so we will give you all the important details.
What Is The Best Size Tank For A Hamster?
When it comes to using a tank for housing a hamster, bigger is always better. In the wild, the average hamster can run for eight miles each night to forage for food. Giving them a larger tank will support their exercise, health, and happiness.
A 40-gallon tank is a good size for holding two Syrian hamsters or three Dwarf hamsters. You may even consider getting a tank as big as 50 gallons. If you have the extra money to spend, then get your hamster(s) a tank that’s as large as possible.
Tank Sizes For Syrian Vs Dwarf Hamsters?
As Syrian hamsters are larger, they require more space. The most important difference between these two types of hamsters is that Syrian hamsters are solitary and should only be housed on their own. Meanwhile, Dwarf hamsters are a lot more social and should be housed with at least one other Dwarf hamster, if not more.
Is It Okay To Keep A Hamster In A Tank?
Hamsters can be kept in a fish tank as long as there’s a tight-fitting mesh lid. This will still allow for proper airflow for your hamsters to live comfortably. There’re even some advantages to using a fish tank to house a hamster.
One example is that there’re more options on the market and of course the larger sizes that are available. A hamster can’t chew on their enclosure either. It can also make them safer from other household pets, which will make it a lot harder for other pets to gain access to your hamster, making it a safer option if you have any dogs or cats in your home.
What Does A Hamster Need In Their Hamster Enclosure?
It’s important to have a hamster enclosure that’s an adequate size. It’s also important to provide the necessities for your hamster and something fun to keep them occupied. Hamsters will need food, water, and shelter like any other animal.
You’ll need a water bottle, food bowl, and enough bedding for the hamster to burrow. You should have a minimum layer of two to three inches of bedding, making sure to keep the bedding clean. A hamster wheel is also important for providing exercise and chew toys are important to help maintain your hamster’s health.
Conclusion
A 40-gallon tank is big enough for two Syrian hamsters or three Dwarf hamsters. If you have the space in your home to accommodate a larger tank, then you may consider getting something as large as 55 gallons. A hamster enclosure can never be too big. You should include a minimum layer of two to three inches for your hamster’s bedding to allow them to burrow.
Although fish tanks can be used to house hamsters they should be sealed at the top with a mesh lid to allow enough airflow for your hamster. A longer tank is better than a taller tank for housing hamsters. Keep a Syrian hamster solitary in their own enclosure to prevent stress and to keep them happy. Make sure to keep at least two Dwarf hamsters in the same enclosure, so they can meet their social needs and stay happy.
