But you'll
sleep better at night if you plan ahead for any eventuality by minimizing the hazards: Throw away any mouse traps or poison that might be in storage; seal any
gaps in and behind cabinets and appliances as well as
around pipes (if you have a built - in kitchen, remember that it's easier to seal
gaps now than dismantle your kitchen if your hamster gets loose); if you have a sump pump or accessible drain in the basement, be sure it's covered securely; and check whether exterior doors need new weather - stripping to prevent
gaps a curious hamster could slip under.