Hamsters are strictly nocturnal animals whose welfare is severely compromised by daytime handling, small cages and inappropriate environmental conditions that ignore their biological needs.
Hamsters forced awake during daylight hours show elevated aggression and stress responses. Small cages deny the extensive burrowing and foraging behaviour that occupies hamsters for hours nightly. Hamsters in understimulating environments develop stereotypic bar-chewing and repetitive circling indicating chronic frustration. Many hamsters purchased as children's pets are kept in conditions that cause significant daily welfare compromise.