Hamsters are very popular pets, and for good reason - they're cute, they're affectionate, and they're relatively easy to look after, making them the perfect first pet for young children, and people who don't have the time or inclination to look after a more demanding animal.

If you are thinking about purchasing a hamster, it is important to consider the equipment that you'll need to buy to keep your new pet happy, healthy, and entertained. Here are the 4 most important pieces of equipment you should provide your pet with from day one:

1. A Cage

Fairly obviously, your hamster will need somewhere to live. The range of cages available is staggering, with something to suit every taste, whim, and need. You should ensure that the one you buy is large enough for the number of hamsters you intend to keep. If you're planning on breeding hamsters, it's important to consider how many offspring you might end up with, and get a cage that is big enough to house them all comfortably.

2. Floor Covering and Bedding

Hamsters like to be warm and cosy when they sleep, so you'll need to provide suitable bedding. A popular choice for the cage floor is sawdust on top of a layer of newspaper. This provides a soft later for them to walk on, and they love to tear up the newspaper to make themselves a snug sleeping cocoon. Ensure you put down a fairly thick layer of sawdust, because hamsters love to burrow, and this will let them indulge themselves.

3. Food and Water

It is important to provide your hamster with all its nutritional needs. Thankfully this is a relatively simple task. Dried hamster mix forms the basis of most hamster diets, and provides almost all of the nutrients they need. On top of this, you may like to add a small amount of fresh fruit and veg to their diet. Start slowly, with one small chunk per week, and gradually build up to a piece per day. For water, hang a bottle from the cage wall, and check it regularly to make sure it is full, works properly, and all of your hamsters can reach it.

4. Exercise Equipment and Toys

Hamsters are very active creatures, but they will soon become bored simply running around their cage in circles. provide a selection of exercise equipment and toys, such as wheels, ropes, ladders, platforms, and hammocks. Generally the more you give them, the more fun they will have, but be careful not to overcrowd their cage, as these animals have been known to fight if they don't have enough personal space.

By following the above tips, you can be sure that your hamster will have a happy, healthy life from the first day they arrive in your care. In return they will become more affectionate, and more eager to play with you, so it really is a win-win situation.