Teaching Kids How to Clean a Hamster Cage

Teaching kids how to clean a hamster cage is not as difficult as it may seem. Having a ready supply of all required materials makes things go so much smoother. While showing the kids what to do, patience is key as is explaining each step as it is done.

Place the hamster in a well-contained safe play area. The hamster needs to be safely occupied while the cage is being cleaned. Our hamsters like to run around in their exercise balls when the cages are being cleaned. If you choose this method, be sure the hamster is being supervised and the area will contain the hamster if the ball comes open. You also may opt to place the hamster in an extra exercise cage with an obstacle course or wheel.

Disassemble the cage and clear bedding. Before starting, make sure anyone cleaning the cage has on gloves. Some hamster cages are designed so that the top pulls away from the bottom tray. Others are a bit more difficult to disassemble. We have one hamster cage that comes apart completely for each cleaning. If the kids are responsible for the cage cleaning, that type of cage should be avoided. Show the kids how to scoop out and throw away the soiled bedding. We find that a cat litter scoop comes in handy for this process. Although hamster like to store their food, it can become stale. So it's best to clean out whatever they have stored. One of our hamsters likes to store food inside a covered wheel. So she now has two wheels to be sure she gets exercise.

Wash the cage and accessories. Be sure the bottom tray is thoroughly cleaned, as well as the cage sides or bars. Also cleanse the food dish and any accessories. A very mild soap should be used. Pet supply stores also sell cage cleansing solutions. We like to use an environmentally friendly dish soap that is free of chemicals, dyes, and fragrance. Be sure to also rinse all of the items very well. Air drying is recommended. The last thing you want is for your hamster's mouth to come in contact with soap. Show the kids your washing method and explain how and why you do each step in the process.

Reassemble the hamster cage and replace bedding. Depending on the design of the hamster's cage, it may be easier to place the bedding and toys into the bottom tray before putting the rest of the cage back together. Make sure that you show the kids what you are doing and let them try it out. This helps them understand what to do when they have to act solo. The bedding should be layered thick enough for the hamster to burrow under and also to carry some away to favorite hideaways. If your hamster likes to stash food or toys in a particular area, make sure that area is clear for that. Also make sure the regular potty area is not covered with any toys or accessories. Always replenish the food and water supply on cleaning.

Place the hamster back in the cage. Once the cage has been cleaned, reassembled, and replenished, the hamster should be free to explore. Let the hamster run around and investigate. Your hamster may not enjoy the first few cleanings because you are moving everything around and taking away stash. However, over time they will become accustomed to regular cleanings. Our female hamster gets right down to business rearranging all of her items as soon as her cage is cleaned. She drags bedding in various hiding places and stashes food and toys.

*Always contact a licensed veterinarian for the health of your animals. The information above is not meant to replace the advice of a qualified professional and is derived solely from the author's own personal experiences.

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