Need advice re: small animals/hamsters

[Whee]

My 12yo has had three hamsters in her life. Two of them lived about 2 years, which is pretty good we're told for hamsters.

I discovered that the metal cages are easier to maintain and less "escape-proof" than the plastic models, although the plastic ones have lots of accessories.

Problem with the plastic ones with all the tunnels and tubes, is they can be hard to clean.

Definitely need a wheel and an exercise ball. My daughter's current hamster loves to chase the cats with hers. Nothing like watching a 6 pound cat run from a 6oz hamster.

Wood chip bedding like pine or cedar tends to control the odor better than the shredded cellulose stuff.

That's all I can think of. I know certain breeds are better than others, ie more friendly, but can't remember which ones. Will have to call the expert when I get home.