Hamster — enrichment (owner-practical care, Merck Veterinary Manual pet-owner)

Source: first-hand Merck Veterinary Manual pet-owner text, saved to source_file; every claim below is a C1 byte-substring of it.

Your hamster will need an enclosure with enough space to allow for exercise in addition to areas for feeding and nesting.
Smooth plastic or glass is preferred for cage walls because hamsters can chew wire.
For small hamsters, old toilet paper tubes make good running toys.
A few healthy treats such as fruits, vegetables, or chewy treats sold in pet stores may be given but should be limited to not more than 10% of the total diet.
Exercise Regular exercise is necessary for your hamster to stay happy and healthy.
Often, an exercise wheel is part of providing the exercise your pet needs.
In addition to a suitable cage, your hamster will need a balanced diet and regular time to play or exercise with you.
A play area can be created with old packing tubes cut into short lengths; just be sure that the tube is large enough for your hamster to move through freely.
In addition, boxes with holes cut into them make intriguing play areas for your hamster.
Be sure to select a wheel with a solid running surface to protect feet and bones.
The wheel should also be large enough for your hamster to move freely inside and to easily enter and exit.
Pet stores often offer exercise balls that can confine the hamster while allowing it to move over a large area outside the cage.

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Source: pdf-raw/owner-care/merck_hamster.txt · https://www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets

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