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Plan a sustainable hamster habitat

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Creating a sustainable hamster habitat involves using eco-friendly materials, ensuring the hamster’s health and happiness, and minimizing environmental impact. Here’s a step-by-step plan to build a sustainable hamster habitat:

### 1. Choose an Eco-Friendly Cage
– **Material:** Opt for a cage made from natural, non-toxic materials like untreated wood or recycled glass. Avoid plastic cages as they can release harmful chemicals and are less durable.
– **Size:** Ensure the cage is spacious enough for your hamster to move, burrow, and explore (minimum 450 square inches of floor space).

### 2. Bedding and Substrate
– **Natural Bedding:** Use biodegradable, chemical-free bedding such as aspen shavings, hemp bedding, or paper-based bedding made from recycled paper.
– **Avoid:** Cedar and pine shavings as they can be harmful to hamsters.

### 3. Habitat Accessories
– **Toys and Chews:** Provide wooden chew toys made from untreated wood, cardboard tubes, and natural fiber ropes.
– **Hideouts:** Use sustainably sourced wooden hideouts or DIY from recycled cardboard boxes.
– **Exercise Wheel:** Choose a solid-surface wheel made of wood or metal to avoid injury.

### 4. Food and Water
– **Food:** Purchase organic hamster food or grow your own hamster-safe herbs and vegetables.
– **Water Bottle:** Use a glass or stainless steel water bottle instead of plastic.

### 5. Cleaning and Maintenance
– **Eco-Friendly Cleaning:** Clean the habitat with natural cleaning agents like diluted vinegar instead of harsh chemicals.
– **Waste Management:** Compost used bedding if it is free from waste or dispose of it in an eco-friendly manner.

### 6. Location and Environment
– Place the habitat in a well-ventilated, naturally lit area to reduce the need for artificial lighting.
– Avoid placing the cage in direct sunlight or drafty areas to maintain a stable temperature.

### 7. DIY and Upcycling Ideas
– Build the cage or accessories yourself using recycled or reclaimed materials.
– Repurpose household items like jars, boxes, and fabric scraps for enrichment toys.

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### Example Sustainable Hamster Habitat Setup:
– Cage: DIY wooden cage with glass panels.
– Bedding: Hemp bedding.
– Accessories: Wooden chew toys, cardboard hideouts.
– Food: Organic seed mix and homegrown herbs.
– Water: Stainless steel bottle.
– Cleaning: Vinegar-water solution.

By following these guidelines, you can create a comfortable, healthy, and eco-friendly home for your hamster!