Can You Keep a Hamster Cage on The Floor?

I often receive questions from pet owners about the best way to care for their furry friends. One question that frequently comes up is whether it is safe to keep a hamster cage on the floor.

In this blog post, I will delve into the topic and provide you with everything you need to know to make an informed decision about where to place your hamster’s cage.

Benefits of Keeping a Hamster Cage on the Floor

There are several advantages to keeping a hamster cage on the floor. These include:

1. Easy Accessibility

Placing your hamster’s cage on the floor makes it easy to access and interact with your pet. You can easily kneel down and play with your hamster, and your pet will feel more comfortable and secure being at eye level with you.

2. Space Saving

Hamster cages can take up a lot of space, especially if you have limited room in your home. Keeping the cage on the floor can save valuable space and make your living area feel more open.

3. Easy Cleaning

Cleaning a hamster cage can be a messy and time-consuming process. When the cage is on the floor, it is easy to remove the bedding and clean up any debris that may have accumulated.

Risks of Keeping a Hamster Cage on the Floor

While there are benefits to keeping a hamster cage on the floor, there are also some risks to consider. These include:

1. Exposure to dust and debris

When the cage is on the floor, it is more susceptible to collecting dust, debris, and other household pollutants. This can be harmful to your hamster’s health and increase the risk of respiratory problems.

2. Exposure to drafts and temperature changes

Placing the cage on the floor can also expose your hamster to drafts and temperature changes, which can be harmful to their health. Hamsters prefer a warm and stable environment, so it is important to keep their cage in a location that is free from temperature extremes.

3. Risk of being stepped on or kicked

Having the cage on the floor also puts your hamster at risk of being stepped on or kicked accidentally. This can be a serious injury and cause undue stress to your pet.

4. Exposure to other pets

If you have other pets then placing the cage on the floor can make the hamster very easily accessible for them.

How to Keep Your Hamster Safe When Keeping the Cage on the Floor

If you decide to keep your hamster’s cage on the floor, there are several things you can do to keep your pet safe and comfortable. These include:

1. Use a cage with a secure lock

Make sure that your hamster’s cage has a secure lock that cannot be accidentally opened. This will prevent your pet from escaping and getting into trouble.

2. Place the cage in a safe and stable location

Choose a location that is free from potential hazards, such as high traffic areas or areas with a lot of foot traffic. Make sure that the cage is stable and cannot be knocked over easily.

3. Keep the cage away from potential hazards

Keep the cage away from potential hazards, such as electrical cords, toxic plants, and other items that could harm your pet.

4. Do not place in drafty areas

To keep the temperature at a good level, make sure that you do not place the cage in an area that gets a lot of drafts.

Alternative Locations for Hamster Cages

If you are concerned about the risks of keeping your hamster’s cage on the floor, there are alternative locations you can consider. These include:

1. Elevated Surfaces

Placing the cage on an elevated surface, such as a table or shelf, can help keep your hamster safe from potential hazards on the floor.

2. Wall-Mounted Cages

Wall-mounted cages can save valuable floor space and provide a safe and secure environment for your pet.

3. Pedestals or Stands

Pedestals or stands can elevate the cage off the floor while still keeping it at a comfortable height for your pet.

Conclusion

Now that you know the benefits and risks of keeping a hamster cage on the floor, as well as alternative locations to consider, you can make an informed decision about where to place your pet’s cage.

Remember to weigh the pros and cons, choose a safe and stable location, and take steps to ensure your hamster’s comfort and safety.

If you have a place on the floor where your hamster is not exposed to drafts, dust, lots of foot traffic, and other animals, then placing the cage on the floor can be okay. In other cases, it’s best to place the cage at an elevated level.

By following these guidelines, you can provide your furry friend with a happy and healthy home.