Yes, glass aquariums (40+ gallons) make excellent hamster enclosures, but they require proper ventilation. Use a secure mesh lid and ensure the tank is placed in a well-ventilated area. Avoid small tanks (under 20 gallons) as they don't provide adequate space. The main advantages are deep bedding for burrowing and no bar climbing. The disadvantages include potential condensation and heavier weight.

Complete bedding changes should occur weekly for most small animals. However, spot clean soiled areas daily. Some animals (like chinchillas) may need less frequent full changes (every 10-14 days) if using a litter box system. Always monitor odor and cleanliness - if it smells between cleanings, you may need to clean more often. Never change all bedding at once for stress-prone animals; leave some soiled bedding to maintain familiar scent.

The safest options are: 1) Snuggle Safe microwave heat pads (place under part of enclosure), 2) Ceramic heat emitters (must be outside cage with guard), 3) Extra bedding and nesting material, 4) Moving cage away from drafts. NEVER use human heating pads (fire/chewing risk), heat rocks (burn risk), or space heaters near cages. Room temperature should be maintained at 65-75°F. Provide warm hideouts but ensure part of enclosure remains cooler so pets can thermoregulate.

Generally not recommended. While some pairs co-exist peacefully, rabbits can accidentally injure guinea pigs with kicks, they have different dietary needs, and rabbits may bully guinea pigs for food. They also communicate differently and can stress each other. If housed together, you need a very large space (minimum 16 sq ft), multiple hideouts, separate feeding areas, and close monitoring. Most experts recommend separate but adjacent enclosures for interspecies companionship.

For wire cages: Ensure bar spacing is appropriate (1/2" for dwarfs, 1" for Syrians). For tanks/bin cages: Use secure, ventilated lids clipped or weighted down. For rabbits/guinea pigs: Ensure enclosure walls are at least 24-30" high (higher for jumpers). Check for gaps, loose connectors, or chewable edges regularly. Bury wire fencing 6" deep for outdoor enclosures. Remember that determined animals can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so regular security checks are essential.

Signs include: excessive bar chewing or climbing, overgrooming, aggression, lethargy, repetitive behaviors (pacing, circling), hiding constantly, or refusing to use certain areas. Physical signs include pressure sores, overgrown nails (from lack of wear), soiled fur, or respiratory issues (from poor ventilation/bedding). If you notice these signs, assess space, enrichment, cleanliness, and layout. Often, adding hiding spots, more space, or different types of enrichment can resolve issues.

Yes! Many safe household items include: cardboard boxes and tubes (remove tape/glue), untreated wood blocks, ceramic tiles for cooling, old towels or fleece blankets, PVC pipes for tunnels, and paper bags. Avoid: anything with ink/glue/chemicals, plastic that can be chewed and swallowed, treated wood, items with small removable parts, and anything with sharp edges. Always supervise with new items and remove if chewed dangerously.