How big does a hamster wheel need to be?
For the size of a hamster wheel applies: The hamster must be able to run with a straight back in his wheel. If the wheel is too small, the back will bend while running and damage to the spine can occur.
For small hamsters you should choose at least a 20 centimeter diameter, for larger hamsters a diameter of 30-35 centimeters. However, the wheel must be chosen so that your hamster can easily move it.
What material should my hamster wheel be made of?
Keep your hands off hamster wheels made of a grid! Your hamster can get his foot caught in the mesh while running and suffer serious injuries!
Whether you choose wood or plastic is a matter of taste. The disadvantage of wood is that it is more difficult to clean; if your hamster pees in the wheel, the wood quickly absorbs the moisture. You should also make sure that your hamster has a firm footing in the wheel and does not slide back and forth. Clear wheels are also often ignored by hamsters because they don’t provide the seclusion and protection they need. And if your hamster chews on plastic parts, you should remove them from the cage as soon as possible anyway.
The main advantage of wooden wheels is the noise level. With most wooden wheels in the trade the running surface consists of a cork layer, the pattering of the small feet is then almost no longer heard.
How should the hamster wheel be constructed?
Important with the hamster wheel is the firm stand. Especially with larger hamsters the wheel must not fall down or over.
No matter which material and size you choose, you should always pay attention to two important things. First, the wheel should only be open from one side, so the back should be fully closed.
Secondly, you should make sure that the open side is really completely open. This means: No cross struts! In the worst case, these act like rotating knife blades (especially on metal wheels) and can lead to serious injuries.