You need a safe and comfortable place to keep small animals as pets, such as hamsters. These pets are convenient since they require less space and maintenance than bigger ones. Tanks or cages are best for small pets. However, there is a minimum tank size requirement for any pets with small bodies. And hamsters are no different.
So, Can a hamster live in a 10-gallon tank? No, they can not. Hamsters need more area than a 10 gallon tank provides. They may be small, but these creatures do a lot of moving around! A tank above 20 gallons is good enough; 40 is perfect. A good tank should be low and wide.
This blog will have everything you need to know about the perfect place you want your hamster to be safe. Make sure to read to the end so you don’t miss out on any info on your pet’s safety.
Can Hamsters Live In 10-Gallon Tanks?
Unfortunately, a 10 gallon tank for a hamster of any species is usually too small. It may be your first choice that comes to mind. But you should remember that the hamster has some items and toys which need to be placed in the tank. So, after putting all the toys and items in 10 gallon tank, it becomes much narrower than anyone can imagine.
While some hamsters may be more introverted or idle than others, the vast majority are active and curious. There isn’t enough room for a hamster to run about in a 10 gallon tank, and we recommend a minimum 20 gallon tank for your hamster. Please mind the following things when buying a tank for your pet.
- Start searching for a tank above 20 gallons.
- Make sure the tank has much surface space.
- Stay alert on how the tank joints are.
- Make sure the tank has a solid lid.
You have two options for 20 gallon tank depending on its dimension size. A possible dimension set for a 20-gallon tank is 30 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 12 inches in height. This is, therefore, a suitable quantity of room for every hamster.
The alternative size for a 20 gallon container is 30 inches in length, 12.5 inches in width, and 13 inches in height. So there will be a bit more room to stretch out their legs here than in the 10 gallon tank.
Is It Ok To Use A Tank For A Hamster?
Hamsters kept in glass tanks are more vulnerable to sudden temperature changes, which can be stressful. In glass tanks with a safe wire mesh top, hamsters are widely maintained. Your hamster may be better safeguarded from other pets and young children in a glass tank.
It would be best if you stored the tank in a spot with good air circulation but no drafts. Cleaning the hamster’s tank once per week is required if you choose to do so.
Warning: tanks are hefty and easily damaged.
Comfortable Tank Size For Hamster
If you’re looking to buy a home for your adorable little guy, a 10-gallon tank is not an option you should consider. Because after placing all the necessary items in the tank, there won’t be much space left for the hampster to roam. A minimum capacity of 20 gallons is required because of the active nature of the hamsters, which necessitates a larger room for them.
Even hamsters require their own private space in which they relieve themselves. Although not all of their poop is dumped in a single location, a vast number of it is. But would a hamster be comfortable in such a tank?
In fact, the larger the size of the tank, the better. But overall ideal tank size for hamsters is 40 gallons of 36x18x16 inches in length, width, and height. It is quite a good size for giving them enough room to run and explore and letting you put enough toys for them to play with.
Does Tank Size Matter For A Hamster?
Without a doubt, it matters. As most hamsters are energetic, small tank sizes like 10 gallons won’t let them run freely. However, the minimum size should start from 20 gallons.
Glass and plastic are both suitable materials for hamster tanks. The lid must be tight enough, and the sides should be steep. Hamster tanks allow you to furnish an entirely artificial habitat for your pet. They’re often just a big, empty enclosure with high walls where you may put treats and toys your hamster enjoys.
If the hamster is always attempting to escape from its cage, it may indicate that the tank is too tiny for it. After being transferred to a bigger tank, we witnessed some hamsters whose behavior had previously been problematic (namely, excessive bar chewing and aggressive tendencies) but afterward displayed positive changes. So, you have to consider how much the surface space of the tank is. So, the tank should be long and low.
Is It Ok To Keep A Hamster In A 10-Gallon Fish Tank?
As we discussed earlier, Hamsters are full of energy. A 10-gallon tank is relatively small in size. So, putting them in 10 gallon fish tank is not a good idea. It can be stressful for your pet, as they can not run freely enough. Due to this, your hamster might try to escape the tank. And this is a sign that they are feeling discomfort about staying in a 10 gallon tank.
For your pet’s sake, avoiding a small tank is necessary. And Go for 20 gallon fish tank. Even better if you give them a tank as large as 40 gallons.
Is There Other Alternatives To Tanks?
We’re aware that not everyone has the room or money to accommodate a more sizable tank. Just remember that your hamster will be much happy in more spacious surroundings.
Nonetheless, we understand if you cannot afford a more spacious tank. You can always try methods other than using a tank like a cage, bin cages, or cage tanks. Whatever you want to use or going to use, make sure to give that little guy much space to run around.
YouTube Video link:
Check this video on Hamster tank comparison. It will be much clear to you after watching it.
FAQs
If you still have some questions lingering in your head, check out these FAQs. It might help you to clear some of your questions.
Is A 10-Gallon Tank Big Enough For A Dwarf Hamster?
Surprisingly no! The minimum capacity for one dwarf hamster is 20 gallons; add 10 gallons per dwarf for two or more. Their tiny size makes people think they can live in small spaces, But a 10-gallon tank can lead to fighting and injury.
Can A Syrian Hamster Live In A 10 Gallon Tank?
No, they can not, and It is not big enough for a Syrian Hamster. As mentioned, the minimum fshould be 20 gallons, not 10 gallons. A 40-gallon tank is ideal for them as they prefer more floor space.
How To Figure If Your Hamster Tank Is Not Big Enough?
Small tanks stress hamsters, causing sadness and disease. Some indicators of a too-small tank are trying to climb out of the tank or bite it. (Same goes for cages)
Conclusion
So, now you know if 10 gallon tank is good enough for a hamster. And we have also included why it is 10 gallons is not preferable. The main issue with having a hamster is it needs enough space. And you have to ensure “Enough empty space” still exists after placing all the necessary items in the tank.
In the case of our beloved pet’s healthy and happy life, we all try our best to do things. Reading this blog on preferable tank sizes for hamsters from top to bottom is one of the examples. We respect the love of each individual for their pets. So, if you still have questions regards this blog, let us know through email. As always, Thanks for reading.
