What Size Wheel Does A Hamster Need? Everything You Need To Know
Just like us humans, our pets need daily entertainment and exercise to lead a healthy life. And the most beloved exercise to our little buddy is running. Hence a hamster wheel is almost a necessity to pet a healthy hamster. But getting the right wheel size is also a must.
So what size wheel does a hamster need? There are mainly two types of hamsters we adopt and pets. These two types are Dwarf hamsters and much larger Syrian hamsters. Dwarf hamsters need a hamster wheel of about 6-8 inches. In contrast, due to their larger size, Syrian hamsters need a wheel size of about 8-12 inches in diameter.
But only if picking up the perfect hamster wheel was soo easy. From a hamster’s gender to its specific subspecies, there are numerous variables to consider. But worry not because we’ve got you covered. We shall discuss every little detail to help you pick up the best hamster wheel for your little buddy.
Getting the Perfect Hamster Wheel
So what size wheel should a hamster have? As already discussed, there are mainly two types of hamsters we pet, Dwarf hamster and Syrian hamster. Dwarf hamsters tend to differ a lot in terms of length and nature in accordance with their specific subspecies. In comparison, Syrian hamsters differ a lot in length by their gender.
We shall discuss in great detail dwarf hamsters and a special type of dwarf hamster known as the winter white in a bit. Additionally, what size wheel does a winter white hamster need? But firstly, let’s talk about Syrian hamsters.
Syrian Hamsters
Syrian hamsters tend to grow up to a length of 5-7 inches. While Female Syrian hamsters tend to be larger compared to their male counterparts. So we would certainly recommend getting the largest hamster wheel recommended for a Syrian hamster if your little buddy is a she.
Dwarf Hamsters
Dwarf hamsters tend to grow 2-4 inches in length only. But they differ a lot depending on the specific subspecies of Dwarf hamster you got.
- Robovskis: They are the smallest type of hamster in existence. Growing up to only a mere 2 inches. So a smaller hamster wheel won’t bother your little buddy at all.
- Winter Whites: They are among the biggest and the most special dwarf hamster and can grow up to 4 inches. Even though they are slightly bigger than typical dwarf hamsters, they stay in pairs, unlike most hamsters. They share the same cage and hamster wheel with their partner.
Well, you might be considering buying a larger wheel since they both use it together, but rather buy two separate and moderate hamster wheels. As it eliminates the chances of the hamsters getting injured while running together.
- Campbell: Campbell is another unique dwarf hamster. It is like a cousin hamster to the winter whites. They both have a similar size in length and exhibit similar behavior. They too live in pairs, and it is recommended to buy two separate hamster wheels to prevent injury.
So, in summary, know your hamster! Dwarf hamsters tend to vary a lot due to how versatile their breeds are.
Other Variables to Buying a Hamster Wheel
Getting the diameter of your wheel right is only the first step. The perfect hamster wheel depends on a few other factors, such as the width of the wheel and your hamster’s running stance. So let’s go a bit in-depth about such topics.
Stance of Your Hamster
Many hamsters have a wide running stance. It is completely natural and nothing to worry about. A hamster wheel with a proper width will do the trick.
Width of the Hamster Wheel
The width of the hamster wheel is as important as its diameter. For example, you wouldn’t want to buy a narrow wheel where your hamster will have difficulty running properly, and it might lead to issues like your hamster tripping off the wheel and getting injured.
Even more likely if your hamster has a wide stance. So it’s always better to buy your hamster wheel with a wide enough width so that your hamster can run on it nicely. Preferably, 8 inches for Dwarf hamsters and 12 inches for Syrians.
Style of the Hamster Wheel
There are 2 styles of hamster wheel available. There are one-side closed style or two-side closed style hamster wheels. The two-side closed-style hamster wheel is great for Dwarf hamsters who are small and runs the risk of falling out when running at great speed.
But you should consider buying a one-side closed wheel for larger hamsters like the Siberian. As they might very well feel congested inside a two-side closed-style wheel. And Syrian hamsters, especially females, might have a hard time just getting in and getting out of a two-side close hamster wheel.
Material of The Hamster Wheel
Hamster wheels are generally constructed of 3 materials. Metal, wood, and plastic. They all have their pros and cons, and we shall discuss them all.
Metal
It is the most commonly used hamster wheel around. One of the reasons is metal hamster wheels are very versatile in pricing, so they can always fit your budget. And as most hamsters are nocturnal species, meaning they are most active at night, metal hamster wheels can come in handy then.
They have stainless steel wheels which are made of ball bearings that muffle noise. So even if your little buddy is warming up at night, he won’t disrupt your sleep. But most metal hamster wheels tend to have little gaps in their structure, which can cause serious injury to your hamster. So be cautious buying one.
Wood
Wood-constructed hamster wheels might be the most aesthetically pleasing, but they don’t come cheap. Besides, they are heavy and are not recommended for small dwarf hamsters.
Plastic
Plastic hamster wheels are the most versatile wheels on the market. And we would highly recommend them too. You can buy a heavy plastic constructed hamster Wheel if your hamster is a chewer or maybe a light plastic hamster wheel if you have a very tiny hamster.
Plus, unlike metal, these hamster wheels are made of one single piece of plastic, so there won’t be any holes to injure your hamster friend.
FAQ
These are the most frequently asked questions of people buying a hamster wheel.
1. Are There Alternatives to The Hamster Wheel?
A hamster wheel may be replaced with many other toys. But the tried-and-true method is the hamster wheel. Hamster balls and saucers are examples of toys. However, none of the toys is appropriate for all hamster species.
2. How Would You Know If The Hamster Wheel Is Too Small For Your Hamster?
If you notice your hamster buddy is running with its back curved, it means it’s too small for him. It is unhealthy for your hamster to run with its back arched, so upgrade to a bigger wheel soon.
3. Can Your Hamster Live Without a Wheel?
Running is a hamster’s natural instinct, making it both its most effective source of fun and instinct. Limiting a hamster’s ability to run is cruel and will have unsettling implications on your pet’s physical and emotional well-being.
4. Can Your Hamster End Up Running Too Much On A Wheel?
Hamsters can develop a toy addiction much as people do. Yes, eventually, your hamster will run too much. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration or foot sores in your hamster. If so, give your hamster fresh toys to play with and try removing the hamster wheel sometimes.
Conclusion
If we adopt a pet, we shoulder the responsibility to adore and provide for it. Hence if we pet a hamster, buying a proper hamster wheel is a must. And as always, we come to the question, what size wheel does a hamster need?
In conclusion, we may be fine with 6-8 inches for a dwarf and 8-12 inches for a Syrian hamster. But that’s only a part of our responsibility. Let’s not forget that they deserve our love as our pets, and make sure to give them proper attention.
