Hamsters need regular exercise to stay healthy, and one of the best ways to provide it is with a wheel for hamster.
Where things get complicated is that if choose a cage is not easy, it can be just as difficult to choose the right wheel, since there are so many options to choose from. Yet it's an essential accessory to integrate into your cage. Here's an overview to help you choose the best wheel for your hamster.
The hamster wheel? An indispensable tool for their physical and mental health
Hamsters are nocturnal animals that need regular exercise to stay healthy. In the wild, they travel long distances every night to search for their food. food. The wheel for hamster allows you to reproduce this natural behavior by offering your pet a fun and stimulating activity.
The use of the wheel thus helps to maintain a stable weight in the hamster and to prevent problems related to the weight loss. overweightsuch as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. In addition, it also promotes their well-being by avoiding the boredom and stress associated with inactivity.
What size wheel fits my hamster?
The choice of wheel size is crucial to your hamster's comfort and safety. A wheel that's too small could cause back and spine problems for your pet, while one that's too large could discourage him from using it.
Wheel diameter
The first thing to consider when choosing the size of the wheel is its diameter. Here are some general recommendations:
- Dwarf Hamsters: For small species like Roborovski or Campbell, a wheel of 16 to 20 cm in diameter is recommended.
- Syrian Hamsters : These larger hamsters need a wheel at least 25-30 cm in diameter to avoid bending their backs.
- Chinese Hamsters : These hamsters are slightly smaller than Syrians and can use a wheel of 17-20 cm in diameter.
Don't forget to consider the adult size of your hamster if you have a young animal, and adjust the wheel diameter accordingly.
Width of the wheel
The width of the wheel must also be sufficient to allow your hamster to run comfortably without risk of entrapment. A width of around 5 cm is generally adequate for most types of hamster.
Type of material: plastic or metal?
Hamster wheels are available in different materials. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages:
Plastic wheels
Plastic wheels are lightweight, easy to clean and often less expensive than metal ones. However, they can break or crack over time, especially if your hamster likes to chew on them. Also, some plastic wheels have bars, which can cause injuries to your pet's paws.
Metal wheels
Metal wheels are generally more durable than plastic ones, and less likely to be damaged by your hamster's teeth. They also offer better ventilation. However, they can be noisy when in use, and some models may also present a risk of leg injury.
Choose a wheel that is solid, sustainable and safe for your hamster. Make sure the materials you choose are non-toxic and will withstand your pet's bites.
Type of wheels: open or closed?
Hamster wheels come in two main forms:
Open wheels
This is the most common wheel. It can be fixed to the cage walls or placed on the floor. Caution: it's essential to ensure that the spaces between the bars are narrow enough to prevent your hamster from getting its tail or legs stuck.
Choose models with plastic bars and spacing adapted to your pet's size.
Closed wheels
Closed wheels, also known as silent wheels, have a completely enclosed running surface with no rungs, which considerably reduces the risk of injury. They are also often quieter than open wheels. However, ventilation may not be as good in this type of wheel, and some animals may be reluctant to use them at first if they can't see a way out.
When choosing between open and closed wheels, consider both your hamster's safety and its activity level. Some hamsters prefer closed wheels, while others won't use them at all.
Cleaning and maintenance
To ensure your little protégé's safety (and comfort) when using his wheel :
- Check the condition of the wheel regularly and replace it if you notice any signs of wear.
- Place the wheel in a quiet, secluded spot heat sourcesThe sun's rays, such as near a radiator or a sunny window.
- Clean the wheel regularly with a damp cloth and a non-toxic cleaner to prevent the growth of bacteria.
To facilitate access to the wheel and encourage its use, think about furnishing your hamster's environment:
- Make sure your cage is large enough to accommodate the wheel and allow your pet to move freely.
- Create a play area with tunnels, pipes or bridges to stimulate your hamster's physical and mental activity.
Beware of the noise!
Finally, consider the noise level the wheel makes when your hamster runs on it. Many hamster owners complain about the noise caused by the wheels at night, as these nocturnal animals like to run for hours on end. A silent wheel can be an excellent investment to ensure the peace of mind of your home.
Choosing the right wheel for your hamster means taking into account size, materials, wheel type, maintenance and noise level. By studying these criteria, you'll be able to select the best wheel to ensure the well-being and development of your furry friend?