How to Safely Keep a Hamster and Cat Together: A Complete Guide

Are you considering keeping both a hamster and a cat? Or perhaps you already have one and are thinking of adding the other to your household? This can be a delicate situation, as cats are natural predators, and hamsters are prey animals. Let’s explore whether it’s possible for these two very different pets to live together peacefully and how to make it work if you decide to try.

Can Cats and Hamsters Live Together?

The answer depends on the cat. Cats are instinctive hunters, and while some may be indifferent to a hamster, others may view it as prey. On the other hand, hamsters are naturally fearful of predators, including cats. Some hamsters might be brave or indifferent, while others could be highly stressed by the mere presence of a cat. Therefore, whether or not they can coexist largely depends on the personalities of both animals.

Understanding the Hamster’s Personality

Hamsters are prey animals with a natural instinct to hide and avoid predators. Most hamsters will be frightened by the sight or smell of a cat, but their reactions can vary:

• Brave Hamsters: Some hamsters, like my Syrian hamster Teddy, are bold and may try to fight or investigate anything that comes too close, including a cat.
• Calm Hamsters: Others, like a friend’s hamster named Oscar, might be surprisingly relaxed and not easily disturbed, even by a cat.
• Shy Hamsters: Many hamsters are extremely timid and will retreat to their hideouts at the first sign of danger.

It’s important to provide your hamster with a secure environment where they can feel safe. A stressed hamster can develop health issues like wet-tail, fur loss, and other stress-related conditions.

Understanding the Cat’s Personality

Cats are natural hunters, and even domestic cats may hunt small animals for sport. However, not all cats are the same:

• Curious and Active Cats: These cats may become obsessed with the hamster, trying to get into the cage or knock it over.
• Lazy or Indifferent Cats: Some cats may be too lazy or uninterested to bother with the hamster, especially if they’ve learned they can’t get to it.

Expecting a cat to completely ignore a hamster is unrealistic. However, with the right precautions, you can minimize the risk to your hamster.

Tips for Keeping a Hamster and Cat Together

If you decide to keep both a hamster and a cat, here are some steps to ensure they can coexist safely:

1. Ensure the Hamster’s Cage is Secure

   • Avoid Wire Cages: Cats can easily reach into wire cages, which can stress or even harm the hamster. Consider using a glass aquarium or a sturdy plastic cage with secure locks.
   • Use a Heavy Lid: If you’re using an aquarium, make sure the mesh lid is securely fastened so the cat cannot pry it open.

2. Place the Cage in a Safe Location

   • Elevate the Cage: Place the cage on a high shelf or in a cupboard where the cat can’t easily reach it. This reduces the likelihood of the cat knocking it over.
   • Cover the Sides: If possible, place the cage in a location where three sides are covered by walls or furniture, leaving only one side exposed.

3. Keep the Cat Out of the Room During Hamster Playtime

   • Supervised Playtime: When your hamster is out of the cage for floor time or lap time, ensure the cat is not in the room. Always close the door to prevent the cat from sneaking in.

4. Distract the Cat

   • Playtime: Engage your cat in play or other activities in a separate room to keep them occupied and away from the hamster.
   • Separate Spaces: Try to keep the cat and hamster in different parts of the house as much as possible.

5. Manage Your Expectations

   • Understand the Cat’s Nature: Cats are naturally curious, and it’s unrealistic to expect them to completely ignore a hamster. However, with time, the novelty may wear off, and the cat might lose interest.

When Things Don’t Work Out

If despite your best efforts, the cat and hamster cannot coexist peacefully, you may have to consider rehoming one of them. This decision can be difficult, but it’s important to prioritize the safety and well-being of both pets.

• Consider Your Lifestyle: If your lifestyle is better suited to one pet over the other, this might guide your decision. Cats are generally more interactive and require more attention, while hamsters are low-maintenance and more suitable for quiet, calm environments.

Conclusion

Keeping a hamster and a cat under one roof can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With the right precautions and an understanding of both animals’ personalities, you can create a safe and peaceful environment for both pets. However, always be prepared to reassess the situation if it becomes clear that the arrangement isn’t working for either the cat or the hamster.