Hamsters are kept in cages to prevent escapes which can pose problems including exposure to predators as well as potential disease and parasite infestations. Waking up to a big gaping hole in the little buddy’s cage could be disturbing particularly if the damage happened overnight.
This article looks at how to fix holes in hamster cages. We reveal various ways to discourage chewing of the cages in the first place as well as measures to discourage repeat incidents in the future. Let’s get started.
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How to Fix Holes in Hamster Cages
Small hamster cage holes may be fixed by applying hot glue or duct tape on patches covering the size of the hole. Smearing vinegar and lime on the cage bars can discourage chewing to prevent future holes but a buying brand new cage is the best option.
The steps for fixing a hole in a hamster cage are as follows:
- Remove the hamster and empty the cage of contents such as bedding, toys, food bowls, and water bowls
- Clean the cage thoroughly to remove urine, feces, and other unsavory stuff
- Unwrap and position a patch to cover the entire hole created by the chewing hamster
- Apply duct tape or hot glue to stick the patch to the cage
- Allow the patched cage to dry completely if hot glue was used
- Apply vinegar around the patch and all edges of the cage to discourage future chewing
Hamster cages can be expensive depending on the brand, size, and type. But, once your little guy successfully chews through the wire mesh and creates a hole in the existing cage, be prepared to write it off for a new one.
Any repairs conducted on the old cage should be regarded as temporary measures to keep the hamster secure until you find a more permanent solution.
Why Do Hamsters Chew Their Cages?
Hamsters may chew their cages due to several reasons and a few of those include:
Instinct
Hamsters are natural chewers that love to sink their teeth into any and everything during their pasttimes. It is just one of the things they love to do and there’s not much you can do about it. This is why putting a couple of chewable toys in their cages is such a great idea.
It guarantees constant access to chewable objects whenever they’re in the mood and this can minimize the probability of their attention turning to gnawing their cages. If your hamster shows absolutely no sign of interest in chewing anything, that could be a sign that something’s wrong somewhere.
Inadequate Space
Hamsters love to roam about their cages almost every minute spent awake. From eating, drinking, and gallivanting inside their cages, these pocket rodents hardly stay in one place. This essentially translates to larger floor space requirements.
When hamsters are stuck in small cages with uncomfortable floor space, chewing the bars may be one of the ways they lash out. They do that in an attempt to escape from the cages for more freedom to maneuver.
Stress
Stress is another popular trigger for cage chewing in pocket rodents. These little guys can get stressed from a variety of conditions including inadequate cage space as well as water and food shortages.
Hamsters may also get stressed during excessively uncomfortable cage temperatures which can encourage cage wire chewing in a bid to get out of there.
Boredom
Hamsters thrive on high levels of physical activity and get bored easily when deprived of that. Filling your pocket rodent’s cage with a myriad of toys may stimulate mental engagement to minimize the risks of boredom.
These toys should be switched out for new ones regularly to ensure pet rodents are always entertained.
Lack of Attention

If your hamster is starved of your attention, chewing his cage can be a normal reaction. These little guys love regular petting sessions and sweet treats from their human parents. Failure to provide that can result in unruly behaviors such as cage chewing.
Constant attention also assures hamsters of your dedication which reduces their stress levels and makes them happier. Happy hamsters typically stay in the confines of their cages without trying to escape.
How to Discourage Hamsters From Chewing Their Cages?
Generally, hamsters rarely chew their cages when mentally stimulated. Finding ways to engage their minds can prevent them from lashing out by attacking cage wires. Here are the best ways to discourage hamsters from cage chewing.
1. Large Cages
Putting hamsters in cages with generous dimensions and floor space is one of the best ways to discourage creating holes from chewed bars. The right cages should be able to accommodate the little guy’s essentials such as toys and substrates as well as hideouts and running tunnels.
2. Boredom Breakers
Busy hamsters are less likely to chew their cage bars compared to bored ones and a good number of toys can come in handy for this purpose. Besides, DIY boredom breakers such as old toilet roll tubes stuffed with dried edible grasses and seed mixes can keep your pet rodents busy.
3. Give Them Attention
Hamsters that spend more time with their owners tend to be some of the happiest. Picking them up from their cages, petting, and offering treats can be relaxing for these little guys. This eliminates desperate efforts like chewing the cage bars as a means of escape.
4. Proper Cage Temperature
Hamsters enjoy living in cages with comfortable temperatures regardless of what period of the year it is. Cage temperature should range between 65-75F year-round to keep your little guys happy.
5. Vinegar

Rubbing Vinegar or Lemon on the cage bars can discourage chewing. Hamsters hate the scents of both and typically shy away every time they get close. It’s a solid method to protect the cage from chewing-related damages.
What Are Your Options When Your Hamsters Chew Their Cage?
Waking up to a gaping hole in your hamster’s cage can be shocking especially if you’ve never witnessed the little guy chewing the cage wires. You may need a few moments to regain composure and figure out the way forward.
Here are the best options available when your hamster creates a huge hole from chewing through his cage.
Patch Up The Old Cage
You can always get the damaged cage patched with hot glue or duct tape as earlier discussed. But it is no secret that a patched-up cage will never be as secure as it previously was and a determined hamster may find it easier to escape.
Patching can be a great option to buy some time to save up for the right hamster cage. It may also offer temporary peace of mind while you figure out which type of cage to buy.
Be prepared to get rid of the patched up cage immediately you can afford to order a new one. Look out for models engineered with sturdy properties to hold up for a while.
Order A New Hamster Cage

Buying a new cage immediately after your hamster chews through the old one may be the way to go. It can give you the chance to correct any shortcomings that may have existed in the previous cage.
For instance, if the old cage had limited floor space, the logical choice is buying a new one with dimensions that allow your hamsters to maneuver more freely.
Nationwide pet store chains give huge discounts on their hamster cages and breeder tanks during certain times of the year. You may want to check in with them to avoid missing out on tasty offers.
Get a Free replacement From the Pet Store
Hamster cage purchases often come with free replacements and other forms of warranty for specific periods. You may want to check with the retailer to find out if your purchase qualifies for any of those offers before thinking of the next step.
Sometimes, you can get a free replacement without paying a dime from Petsmart and Petco. In other instances, landing an even better cage that offers everything your hamster requires to live an uber-comfy life is possible with a small top-up fee.
Conclusion: How to Fix Holes in Hamster Cages
Holes in hamster cages may be repaired with a patch and hot glue or duct tape. However, you can safely assume that the current cage is toast and a brand new one is the way forward.
You may be able to get it replaced for free or even qualify for an upgrade by paying a small top-up fee. Either way, make sure the new cage offers better conditions in terms of comfort, floor space, and structural integrity compared to the previous.