Provide a spacious cage with solid flooring and good ventilation
Use safe bedding such as paper-based bedding or aspen
Keep the cage clean and spot-clean daily
Replace bedding and do a full cage clean regularly
Offer fresh water every day in a bottle or heavy dish
Feed a balanced hamster diet with quality pellets or blocks
Give small amounts of fresh vegetables occasionally
Avoid sugary, salty, or toxic foods
Provide a hideout, nesting material, and enrichment toys
Include an exercise wheel that is solid and appropriately sized
Let the hamster exercise safely outside the cage in a secure area
Handle the hamster gently and let it get used to you slowly
Wash hands before and after handling
Keep the hamster in a quiet area away from loud noises and direct sunlight
Maintain a comfortable room temperature
Separate hamsters unless the species and situation are known to be compatible
Watch for signs of illness such as lethargy, wet tail, loss of appetite, or breathing problems
Take the hamster to an exotic pet veterinarian if it seems sick
Never use cedar or pine bedding
Never feed chocolate, onions, garlic, citrus, or raw beans
Check toys and cage parts regularly for damage or sharp edges