Here we can see, “The Various Types of Hamster Wheels”
Hamsters are born to run, and providing them with a safe hamster wheel (also known as running wheels) allows them to do so. Hamsters in the wild will wander many kilometers each night in quest of food. Some captive hamsters have been observed to run up to eight kilometers every night on their hamster wheels, making them a must-have item for all hamsters.
Surfaces of Hamster Wheels
The greatest hamster wheel features a firm surface that either attaches to the cage’s side or comes on a stand. These wheels are usually made of plastic and can be flat or shaped like half a tube. Solid surface wheels are preferable over wire wheels because small feet and legs can become harmed between the wires, and they are also easier to clean than metal wheels.
Levels of Noise
Because hamsters are nocturnal, they will use their wheels a lot at night while you sleep. As a result, some brands claim to be quieter than others. If your wheel squeaks, apply a few drops of vegetable oil where it turns.
Wheel Dimensions
The size of your adult hamster determines the size of your hamster wheel. Your hamster should be able to run in the wheel without its back arching excessively (if at all), but if the wheel is too large, your hamster will struggle to run and move the wheel. Therefore, a hamster will choose a larger wheel over a smaller wheel if given the option, with a 14-inch diameter wheel being a favorite size according to certain preference testing.
Secure alternatives
The Wodent Wheel:
A well-known and ASPCA-approved wheel. The wheel stands on its own, and the unusual front is semi-solid with access holes (but also susceptible to being chewed).
The Silent Spinner:
This wheel is available in three different sizes. It operates thanks to ball bearings quietly and can be utilized either standing alone or attached to the cage bars.
Comfort Wheel:Â
The Comfort Wheel is available in various sizes and can be used as a free-standing wheel or as an attachment to the cage.
The Flying Saucer:
This is not your average hamster wheel. In place of an enclosed wheel, it’s a plastic, angled saucer that spins and provides a running surface.
By attaching externally, the following wheels expand your hamster’s modular housing. However, these wheels have the same issues as plastic modular cages: they are poorly ventilated (which means your hamster could overheat) and difficult to clean. As a result, most individuals will need to disassemble the cage regularly or use baby bottle brushes to clean the wheels and the remainder of the tubes in the cage.
CritterTrail Snap-On Comfort Wheel:Â
This enclosed wheel mounts to the side of CritterTrail system cages and Fun-nel tubes. It is a little wheel and unsuitable for Syrian or larger hamsters.
S.A.M. Workout Wheel:Â
This wheel is designed to work with S.A.M. cage systems. It attaches to the cage’s exterior and, due to its small size, is only ideal for dwarf hamsters.
CritterTrail X Exercise Wheel:Â
This is a one-of-a-kind CritterTrail wheel that attaches via a Fun-nel tube. Because it is a smaller wheel, it is best suited for a dwarf hamster, as are the other modular cage wheel options.
Alternatives
Hamster balls for outdoor exercise are popular options for pet hamsters. However, they should not be used in place of a hamster wheel. These are available in various designs, including a simple ball, a wheel shape that propels a car frame, and various novelty shapes. You can also build up a track system to keep your hamster’s movements under control. If you keep a hamster in one of these balls for too long, it will overheat (15 to 20 minutes at a time is adequate) and become dirty if it urinates and defecates. Also, never use them near stairwells.
User Questions
Is there such a thing as a silent hamster wheel?
Silent Spinner is a fantastic, whisper-quiet exercise wheel for dwarf hamsters and mice. These wheels are extremely quiet due to patented ball-bearing technology. Silent Spinners can be used in freestanding or attached to any wire cage.
Are hamsters safe to play with balls?
Injuries, tension, or pain could ensue with a smaller wheel or ball. Hamsters cannot assess the danger they are in; it is your obligation as their owner to do so. Even if your hamster seemed to enjoy running around in its ball to explore your home, doing so is ultimately detrimental for them.
Is it cruel to let a hamster wheel out late at night?
Though removing a noisy exercise wheel at night may appear to be a smart approach to keep your hamster quiet, doing so is as harmful to his health as it is to his mood. Exercise is essential for your hamster’s health and emotional well-being.
Do hamsters enjoy the dark?
Hamsters feed and exercise primarily at night. The darkness energizes them and prepares them to face their “days.” As a result, hamsters require that the lights be turned off at night.
Is it OK to wake up the hamster?
You can wake up a hamster, but only on rare occasions to keep stress at bay. If you must wake your hammie, do so gently so that they are not startled.
Conclusion
I hope you found this helpful guide. If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to use the form below.
