Dwarf Hamster Aquarium

Yes the aquarium that you would keep fish in makes a great home for your pet dwarf hamster, of course minus the fish and the water!  There are two types of aquarium construction, glass or plastic and each has their advantages and disadvantages.

A 10 gallon aquarium minimum size for one pet and use a larger  size if housing two or a mother with a litter.  Benefits of using an aquarium to house your pet::

• As the sides are of smooth  construction, it makes it more difficult to escape
• Provides opportunity for you to observe your pet and their antics and opportunity for you pet to observe their outside surroundings

Generally aquariums are made from two types of construction, glass or plastic.The benefit of a glass aquarium is that is the glass doesn't scratch as easily should your pet decided to scratch at the glass.  However the weight of a glass aquarium can make it more difficult to move around and to take care that nothing is tossed against the sides as it could shatter the glass.  Plastic construction is lighter weight making it easier to move and relocate however tends to show scratches easier and is more break proof should it be dropped or something tossed against it.

When using an aquarium for you pets home you will need to make use of a breathable lid.  They can come in different types consisting plastic with holes or screen construction. Using a lid is important for many reasons:

• Should you pet decide to pile up their bedding to assist them to climb up to the top of the aquarium the lid will deter escape
• Helps to stop things falling or being dropped into their home
• Helps keep other pets from entering their home, such as a pet cat!

Location of your dwarf hamster aquarium is important.  As the sides are of solid construction, make sure it is not placed in direct sunlight as it can heat up quickly inside making it unsafe for your pet.  Always avoid locating any pets home in drafty areas, close to heaters, air vents or where there is no indirect sunlight.

One necessary item your pet will require is a water bottle that they can sip from.  By using Velcro pads, you can attach the bottle at the perfect height for your pet.  Also available at pet stores you will find water bottle hooks that are specifically designed to hook onto the top of the aquarium. 

As dwarf hamsters, generally prefer to be observed than held or touched, using a large aquarium creates a great opportunity for your family to observe your pets daily activities and their funny antics!

Kym Sutherland is an author and enjoys writing articles that benefit dwarf hamster owners. To see an example of a dwarf hamster aquarium being used, come to the website, http://www.DwarfHamsterGuide.com and sign up for the free newsletter. See you soon!