All about Hamster Wheels!
Hamsters were born to run! Did you know that in the wild a hamster can run up to 16 miles a day in the wild. Imagine how many turns of the wheel that would be!
So why do we need a wheel and are they really necessary?
A hamster wheel is a MUST. All cages need them (unless you're willing to have 16 miles of floor space for your hamster). If you don’t have a wheel this can lead to obesity which can lead to a number of health problems. You need a wheel to exercise your hamster to prevent obesity.
Sizing of wheels for Syrians
8in minimum
12in recommended
It depends on the size of your Syrian though. The biggest need 12 inches.
Syrian good wheels
Sizing of wheels dwarfs (includes roborovski, chinese, winter white, campbell's dwarf)
6in minimum
8in recommended
Good wheels
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hamster-Wheel-Exercise-Circular-Removable/dp/B017SONKSY
https://www.exoticnutrition.com/Products/Wodent-Wheel-8__WW8.aspx
https://www.exoticnutrition.com/Products/Silent-Runner-Wheel-9__43672.aspx
Why do hamsters need large wheels?
Hamsters need large wheels because those under the minimum can bend their back which is bad for them and causes back problems. Unfortunately most wheels are undersized. Especially those at pet shops.
Are covered wheels better?
I personally think yes because they reduce the risk of falling out and hurting them.
Are wheels better than flying saucers?
Yup, that’s what I think anyway. Flying saucers already bend hamsters’ backs which is bad for them. And flying saucers take up too much precious space to get an appropriately sized one, they also tend to be very flimsy.
Please note these are only my researched opinions. So always research on your own afterwards.
Criticism is needed!
Edit Robin made a better one http://hamsterhideout.com/forum/topic/151588-wheels-101/
Edited by lattepanda, 29 May 2021 - 12:42 AM.
