Hamsters are often popular pets. They are relatively easy to care for, require minimal maintenance and can provide considerable entertainment. Most of these pets live in cages, but there are several types of hamster habitats available. The primary options include glass aquariums, plastic aquariums, wire fence cages and tube cages. Each option has its pros and cons, and making a selection will ultimately depend upon the pet owner's preference and willingness to clean.
Glass aquarium hamster habitats are one of the more traditional varieties. They provide the hamster with a living area that is draft free, for the most part. Glass also helps to retain heat better than the other options. These are often a good choice for cooler climates.
There are several drawbacks with glass hamster habitats. One problem is that mildew and fungus can build up rather easily because of the moisture that glass attracts. They are also the heaviest type of enclosure, and large ones are hard to move around. In addition, glass is susceptible to breaking and more difficult to clean than other habitats. These also tend to be one of the more expensive models.
Plastic aquariums are similarly formed when compared with glass versions, but have a few differences. The main benefits of plastic are that it is much lighter than glass and easier to clean. It is also considerably cheaper than glass and won't break as easily. The primary disadvantages are that these habitats are more likely to become scratched over time and some hamsters will try to chew through them.
Wire fence cages are another type of hamster habitat that is popular with many pet owners. They are an inexpensive option and are also simple to clean. The downside is that they are susceptible to drafts that can leave a hamster chilled. They can also pose a problem with smaller hamsters because they can sometimes escape through the spaces between the wire.
Tube cages are hamster habitats that can provide a lot of fun for the pet and the owner. These can come in either plastic or wire and have a system of tubing for hamsters to crawl around in. Some models can even be customized and altered periodically.
These habitats are beneficial because they give pets plenty of room to run around and play in. The downside is that the tubing can be somewhat difficult to maintain. The more tubing there is, the more time it will take to effectively clean.