Hamsters and cats are great pets, but they can pose some risks if they are kept in the same house.It is important to keep your small friend away from your cat as much as possible.By keeping your cat and hamster separate, you will give both of them the best chance of living happily together.
Step 1: A secure habitat is what you should get your hamster.
Your cat is going to treat your hamster as prey.A secure cage is needed to keep your cat away from your hamster.Look for a closed off area.The bars are too small for your cat's paws.There are play features attached to the top of some hamster habitats.These are easy to knock off.There are tunnels and wheels inside of a larger cage that you should look for.Make sure your cat can not unfasten the cage.
Step 2: Keep your pet away from the cat.
If your cat can't reach your hamster, the sight of it around the cage could cause stress.Setting up your hamster's habitat in an area where your cat doesn't go often is a good idea.If you want to keep your cat away from your hamster, you can put it behind closed doors in a bedroom or an office area.
Step 3: The cage should be in the corner.
If your cat is blocked off from your hamster most of the time, you want to make sure that the cage is in a place where it can't be pushed.The cage should be placed in a corner on a desk.If your cat gets near your hamster, it can't get behind the cage and knock it down.The cat can knock the cage over if it's not secured.
Step 4: The room has to be pet-proof.
Before you take your hamster out of its cage, make sure the room is pet-proof.A towel or blanket should be placed at the bottom of the door to keep your hamster's paws from getting out.All doors and windows should be closed and the floor should have vents.If your hamster falls down, cover it.
Step 5: Put a playpen in place.
Limit out-of-cage time to a playpen to keep your hamster from escaping and getting near your cat.Small pet playpens are available in many pet stores that will allow your hamster to get out and stretch.
Step 6: Spend time alone with your pet.
It is important for hamsters to get some alone time with you.Allow your hamster to climb on you.Let them know that they matter to you just as much as your cat.Try to give your hamster at least an hour a day, broken up into 15 or 20 minute intervals.
Step 7: Pick a ball that has a lid on it.
If you want to let your hamster out around your cat, you will need an exercise ball.Before you buy a ball, make sure the lid is open.Make sure the lid stays secure by turning them upside down.
Step 8: The hamster needs to be out of the cat's sight.
Even for a short period of time, having your hamster in front of your cat can be dangerous.Put your pet in a closed room away from your cat.If you must let the cat in, make sure the lid is on the ball.While the hamster is in its ball, your cat should stay out of the room.If the cat doesn't show interest in the hamster, it's best to keep it out of the room.Remove the cat if it watches or chases the hamster.Keeping the cat in the room can cause stress for the hamster.
Step 9: There is a limit on how long the ball can hold.
Your hamster should spend no more than 15 to 20 minutes in the exercise ball.Only once a day should your hamster be put in the exercise ball, and it should only be on a carpeted floor.
Step 10: Your cat is watching you closely.
If your cat is chasing the exercise ball or batting at it, they need to be separated from the hamster.If the cat can't get to the ball in a room, block it from the area where the hamster is playing.Don't put your hamster back in its cage.It doesn't want to be punished for your cat's actions.