Hamsters are small, chubby creatures that are called a hamster. They are usually around the size of a large apple, but can be as small as a small ball or large hopping wheel.
The size of the wheel you choose really determines what kind of training you will get from it. Smaller wheels can be more trickier to use, since they have to be consistently turned to move the hamster. This requires more effort and practice to master!
Bigger wheels can be harder to turn, because you have to hold onto it tighter. This may be an issue for some people who have little hands or feet. Luckily, there are two main ways of getting a hamster onto its wheel for self-grooming: the upside-down-groove method and the reverse-turning method.
Material matters
If you are buying a hamster wheel made out of hard plastic, you should think about putting it outside to protect it from the elements. If you are buying a wooden wheel, then you should keep it sheltered from the ground. These substances can break down over time and require frequent washing to maintain its strength.
Both plastic and wooden wheels can wear down over time due to this. If you keep your hamster in an exterior environment, such as in a habitat or cage, then buy a wooden wheel that is properly insulated to keep heat in.
If you keep your hamster inside, then buy a plastic wheel that is durable and does not break easily. Avoid ifs and buts, they will only lead to hamsters with broken wheels!
How much money you have to spend is also important when choosing a wheel. A cheaper plastic wheel will result in more effort being spent on it every year, so that it maintains its strength.
Attachments matter
While some wheels are designed to be mounted onto, others are intended to be dismounted from. This can make a difference!
If you decide to mount your hamster wheel onto your cage, make sure you have enough space to do so. A hamster wheel should not be placed in the middle of the cage, as this would create clutter and prevent proper circulation.
When discharging the wheel, make sure it is able to move freely. A wheel that looks like it may break off or stick together may have been held up with too much force. It is also important to choose a wheel that is sturdy enough for your hamster to get around on.
Make sure you know what names your hamster has if you have several types of rats! They may call one type Mr. Raccoon and Mr. Rabbit or Mr. Scootaloo and Mr.
Speed matters
As the saying goes, faster is always better. This is especially true when it comes to hamster wheels.
We suggest starting out with a slow wheel so you can get a feel for their movements on the wheel. Once you find your stride, move onto the next recommended speedwheel!
Speedewise, faster wheels are better than slower ones. You will be able to achieve a more balanced stroke on the hamster wheel which is what you want on your toy rodent.
Bullet point: Make sure it’s sturdy
At around 5 – 10 lbs (2 – 4 kg), an average sized hamster should not trouble a slower wheel too much. However, if you have a very heavy hamster or ones with larger requirements then this may matter.
Always check the cage for safety
Even though hamsters are relatively safe animals, you should always be careful when moving them. The only time is when you put them in their wheel and the hamster has to go out!
Hamsters have a habit of climbing things, so it is best to check your hamster’s wheel before placing it in the cage. If the wheels seem loose, add some tape or a piece of fabric to reinforce it.
If the wheels are secure, then you are all set! Now that your hamster has a safe place to live, you can enjoy playing with it!
Making room for another pet can be difficult if your hamster gets stuck up a different pipe. It is important to know how much space two pets need so that they do not compete for space.
Hygiene is important
While most hamsters are not intended to be wheeled, it is a good rule of thumb to keep your hamster in a wheel that is clean and has appropriate sized wheels.
In general, hamsters are on the scrupulously clean end of the animal kingdom, so keeping a hamster cage with no dirt or hair whatsoever is a good idea.
The same goes for the wheel—a smallish one will probably work best than a big one that can roll around easily.
As mentioned earlier, smallish wheels work better for getting your hamster around since bigger ones can be very heavy.
General guidelines for buying a wheel are to get what you pay for, as some are better than others.
Know your hamster’s behavior
When it comes to wheels, there are two things that most people do not know about wheels. The first is that you should know whether or not the diameter of the hamster’s wheel should be smaller than the size of the hamster’s feet.
The second is that you should know what behavior a hamster can have on a wheel.
A lot of people make the mistake of mixing tiny wheels with big animals. This does not work. Even if the animal gets use to riding on a tiny wheel, it will still need a bigger one when it grows.
It is important to choose a wheel that your hamster will be able to stay on without falling off. If you find that you have to help your hamster get back onto its wheel after they have fallen, then you have chosen the wrong type of wheel for them.
Watch them run on it
You can tell a lot about a hamster wheel by how fast it can run on it.
A good wheel should be smooth and easy to use. Its running surface should be able to support the hamster’s weight at all times. It also should not sag or get thin at the ends due to excessive use.
For best results, give the wheel a couple of runs before taking it out for the first time. This way you will know that it is working properly!
You can test how fast your hamster wheel is by turning it on as soon as it is fully charged. Then, leave it for an hour and check how fast it runs! If it seems to take longer to turn on or run on it, then you might have an issue with your wheel.
Test the grip surface for wear and tear
When the hamster wheel is new, it is important to test the grip surface for wear and tear. The wheel should feel comfortable and sturdy enough to hold your hamster for a few minutes.
You can use your hands or fingers to check the wheel. If your finger or hand gets tired easily, the wheel lacks sufficient support. A healthy hamster needs to be held occasionally, so this is important to remember when choosing a wheel.
Try using several wheels until you find one you like and one that fits your hamster well. Make sure you know how to disassemble and wash the wheel properly after use so that nothing becomes stuck.
When in use, check how much space the wheel takes up in your habitat setting up. A lot of hamsters like to hide in these to escape sunlight and/or drafts, respectively.
Known for her engaging storytelling and insightful articles,John's hamster blog has become a go-to resource for hamster lovers everywhere. Her ability to blend knowledge, creativity, and a touch of humor has earned her a loyal following of readers who eagerly anticipate her next post.
John's love for hamsters began in her childhood when she received her first pet hamster, Whiskers. Ever since that fateful day, her fascination with these tiny furballs has grown into a full-fledged obsession. She spends countless hours researching, experimenting, and observing hamster behavior to ensure that her writing is always backed by solid knowledge and firsthand experiences.
Through her blog,John strives to educate fellow hamster owners on the importance of providing proper care and a nurturing environment for these small creatures. She covers a wide range of topics, from choosing the right hamster species and setting up the perfect habitat to nutrition, health, and behavior training. Her tips and tricks are practical and easy to follow, ensuring that every hamster owner can give their pet the love and care it deserves.
John's writing not only caters to hamster enthusiasts but also serves as a valuable resource for those considering bringing a hamster into their lives. Her articles provide an in-depth understanding of the responsibilities and Joys of hamster ownership, helping prospective owners make informed decisions.
WhenJohn isn't busy writing or tending to her furry companions, she can often be found volunteering at local animal shelters and hamster rescue organizations. She firmly believes in the power of community and hopes to make a positive impact on the lives of as many hamsters as possible.
John's dedication to the well-being of hamsters and her ability to communicate her knowledge with passion and clarity have made her a respected authority in the hamster community. Her blog continues to inspire and educate, creating a stronger bond between humans and their adorable hamster friends.
FollowJohn on her hamster blog to embark on an exciting Journey into the world of hamsters, where love, care, and happiness come together to create unforgettable experiences.
- understanding hamster body language - April 22, 2024
- In The Wild: Exploring The Lives Of Wild Hamsters - April 22, 2024
- Leaky Bladders And Urinary Woes: Understanding Hamster Urinary Issues - April 22, 2024
