can't really stop a hamster chewing - its what they were designed to do. I am generally wary of cages as small rodents can chew their way out, escape and cause no end of damage to furniture, carpets and, well, anything it comes across until you catch it again! to avoid this, my two gerbils live in an old aquarium I had and are fine - just scratch away at the glass like idiots (its quite funny to watch). also - there is the paint issue although it should be hamster friendly, you never know for sure. if she has done it for a while and seems ok, leave her to it. if you have to replace her house, I would recommend an aquarium and they are much better for viewing your animal too. x