Most small animal housing sold in pet stores is too small for them. Measure your housing to make sure it meets or exceeds the requirements.

A photo of your small animal housing is required prior to adoption. After completing your application, email your photo and measurements to Springfield@dakinhumane.org.

FERRETS

Ferrets are not cage animals. It’s important that they are able to run around, explore, play, and interact with you every day. Owners must ferret-proof each room in which the ferrets are allowed, to keep them from escaping and to remove any hazards that could injure the ferret. Most owners find that caging ferrets when they are away or sleeping helps to keep their animals safe and out of trouble. A cage provides a safe and secure “bedroom” for the ferret.

ferret cage on wheels

For a single ferret or pair of ferrets, we recommend a wire cage that’s at least 36 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 63 inches high.

  • Ferrets prefer bi-level cages that feature stairs or ramps that they can climb and shelves or hammocks where they can sleep.
  • Cages should have solid floors as wire flooring is uncomfortable to a ferret’s feet.

GERBILS

Gerbils often live in groups and their housing must be adequate to their group's size. Their habitat should include an appropriately sized exercise wheel, places to hide and sleep, space for food and water, and enrichment activities.

Aquarium tank with wire mesh cover -

  • 2-3 gerbils: 15-gallon aquarium
  • 4-5 gerbils: 20-gallon aquarium
  • 6 gerbils: 30-gallon aquarium

Aquarium tank without wire mesh cover -

  • 2-4 gerbils: 20 gallon aquarium
  • 4-6 gerbils: 30 gallon aquarium

HAMSTERS

Aquarium tank with wire mesh cover -

  • Minimum size of 24” x 12” (20 gallon aquarium)
  • Or a hamster cage at least 20”L x 11.5”W x 11”H

CHINCHILLAS

Cages with 'multiple stories,' often referred to as 'condo cages’ that allow your chinchilla to move in many directions are recommended.

Small animal cages on wheels
  • Ramps lead from one 'floor' to the other.
  • If your cage does not have multiple levels, a shelf high up in the cage, with a ramp leading to it, should be provided.
  • For a single chinchilla, the cage should be at least 30" tall, 24" wide and 15" deep. A 6 x 6 x 3 foot cage would be ideal.