Hamster Cage

stripeytiger

I bought a Plastic Hamster Cage about 4 weeks ago. My hamster has chewed through all the plastic rings on the tubes which go into the cage. Can I return it to the shop for a refund?
My hamster chews alot no matter what I put in the cage.

Fosterdog

Simple answer would be no, the damage has been cause by you (well your hamster at least) generally the cages sold with all the tubes and tunnels that can be added to and extended are not very suitable for hamsters anyway and you would be much better with a cage with metal bars, although the ones sold for hamsters are way too small for them and you should look for something bigger as long as the bar spacing is narrow enough to prevent escape.

You may need to look into more natural chew toys to go in the cage and hopefully the hamster will chew them instead. I always kept loo roll tubes and put their food inside with shredded paper, wrapped with paper and tied at the ends to look like an xmas cracker. I would tie this to the cage dangling from the top and slightly out of reach so they have to work to get their food. It has kept my hamsters, rats and gerbils entertained for hours and stopped a lot of boredom chewing.

ThumbRemote

You can try, but I suspect the shop will state that buying a plastic cage for an animal you knew chewed things was asking for trouble.

Strictly, it comes down to whether the cage was of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose (under the Sale of Goods Act). I suspect the shop will argue that putting an animal in that will chew the cage is misuse and the damage was your own fault.

If they refuse a refund your only real recourse is the small claims court. This may not be worthwhile for the cost of the cage.

I suspect you'll be better off going to the shop, explaining the situation, and asking if they'll give you 25% off a new, metal cage.

mattyprice4004

If you knew he chewed a lot, why did you buy a plastic cage?