Hamsters are adorable, popular small pets, and it’s no surprise that many pet owners want to give them the best toys and accessories to keep them happy and healthy. One of the most common toys for hamsters is a saucer wheel. But are these really a good choice for them?
Flying saucer wheels are good for hamsters because they are non-toxic and provide a smooth, safe surface for your hamster to run on. They can offer excellent exercise, especially for multiple hamsters. Additionally, they are easy to clean and are quieter than traditional wheels.
Saucer wheels are becoming increasingly popular amongst hamster owners because they offer a range of benefits. In this guide, we’ll look at the advantages of saucer wheels and provide some helpful tips on choosing the right one for your furry friend.
Should You Get Your Hamster a Saucer Wheel?
Saucer wheels are an ideal wheel option for hamsters. They are specially designed to provide adequate exercise and stimulation while also being safe, durable, and easy to clean.
- They are much quieter than regular hamster wheels. This is great for hamsters who are sensitive to noise and may become easily stressed.
- They provide more space for hamsters to run and explore, and they offer better support for their backs.
- The unique saucer shape allows for more natural movement and can prevent certain health problems like sore hocks.
- The wheel’s saucer shape is designed to move more naturally, allowing your hamster to get more exercise in a shorter amount of time.
- They help to protect against the risk of accidental injury, as there are no sharp edges or points.
- The wheel is made of high-quality materials, making it durable and long-lasting.
- The wheel is easy to clean, and you don’t have to worry about the buildup of debris and bacteria.
That being said, the size of your hamster will determine if a saucer wheel will be best for them.
This is because, while the saucer wheel does come in different sizes, they might be:
- Too big for single small hamsters like Dwarf or other small hamsters (although the wide surface will be great for multiple running hamsters).
- Too small for larger hamsters like Syrian or other larger hamsters.
Let’s take a look at some of the reasons for and against the saucer wheel, so you know what to expect from them. After all, you know the likes and dislikes of your hamster more than anyone.
Why Saucer Wheels Are Good for Hamsters
Saucer wheels are a great addition to any hamster cage. Not only are they fun for your pet to run on, but they are easy to install and come in a variety of colors, so you can pick the perfect one for your hamster’s cage. They come with a lot of other great advantages too!
They Can Accommodate More Than One Hamster
With proper supervision, multiple hamsters can use the same saucer wheel without any issues. As long as the wheel has enough space for two or more hamsters, they can all get the exercise they need.
All you need to do is make sure the wheel is large enough and that the hamsters are safe while running on the wheel.
They Are Safe
The wheels are also designed with safety in mind, as they have no sharp edges and are made from a durable plastic material. The flying saucer wheel has a wide, solid running surface, which is important for keeping your hamster’s feet healthy and preventing them from getting injured.
In addition, the wheel has a ridged track that prevents your hamster from slipping or falling off the wheel.
They Have a Wide Surface
The proper size of a saucer wheel for hamsters depends on the size of your hamster. Generally, they should have a diameter of about 6.5 inches (16.5 x 8.9 cm) for small hamsters, like dwarf hamsters, and 12 inches (30cm) for larger hamsters.
The maximum diameter for any hamster wheel is 12 inches, as larger wheels can be dangerous and cause injury. However, it is important to note that the width of the wheel can also affect the safety of your pet.
- Too wide of a wheel can cause the hamster to fly off.
- Too narrow of a wheel can cause the hamster’s back to curve in a C-shape while running.
They Are Free Standing
Saucer wheels are also free-standing, meaning they don’t need to be secured to the cage. This makes them easy to set up and take down and an ideal choice for cages that don’t have a lot of space.
They are also great for hamsters who have special needs since they don’t require a lot of physical activity or space to use. They can sometimes come with a comfortable platform for your hamster to stand on and a built-in ramp for easy access.
They Have a Smooth Surface
Unlike regular wheels, the saucer wheel does not have any bars or spokes that a hamster could get its tail or paws stuck in, making it a much safer option and easier to clean too!
The wheel also offers a smoother running experience due to the lack of bars and spokes, which can be rough and uncomfortable for a hamster’s feet.
They Are Convenient for Owners
The saucer wheel is a great choice for hamster owners, as it’s both easy to clean and safe for them to use. They are designed to be exceptionally quiet. This means that you can keep your hamster’s wheel in the bedroom without worrying about it keeping you up at night.
Why Saucer Wheels Are Not So Good for Hamsters
While there are more than enough benefits of a sauce wheel, there are some drawbacks to consider before purchasing one. These disadvantages will pretty much be determined by your personal preferences and the temperament of your furry friend.
Not All Hamsters Will Like It
While these wheels are designed to provide an enjoyable activity for hamsters, not all hamsters will use them. Some may prefer to burrow and hide instead of running in a wheel, while others may simply not be able to fit in them due to their size or shape.
It’s important to understand the needs of your individual hamster when purchasing any type of wheel.
They Can Be Space-Consuming
Saucer wheels range in size from 6.5 inches (16.5) to 12 inches (30cm), so they can be quite large. They are also usually heavier than other types of wheels and require more space to be able to spin as well.
This can be a problem in a small cage, as there may not be enough room for the wheel. Furthermore, depending on the size of the wheel, it may not fit through the opening of the cage door.
They Are Too Small for Some Hamsters
Syrian hamsters can grow to be 5 to 9 inches (12.7cm to 22.86cm) long, so they may be too big to fit on the wheel. This means that if you have a Syrian hamster, you may have to look for a different type of wheel for them. There are plenty of other options for hamster wheels, such as those with a larger diameter or those that are designed for larger hamsters.
They also aren’t the best option for hamsters who like to climb since their sloped shape makes it difficult for hamsters to get a good grip.
They Could Get Too Fast
Saucer wheels can be fast-moving and dangerous for hamsters, as they can easily fall off and get injured. So, it’s best to ensure the wheel is moving at a safe speed for your hamster. If you notice your hamster slipping, spinning too quickly, or having difficulty using the wheel, it’s time to slow it down or consider a traditional wheel instead.
Conclusion
Hamsters enjoy saucer wheels, but it’s important to consider their pros and cons. Hamsters who like to run and play will love them. However, they don’t have any bars or grids, so if your hamster falls off the wheel, it could injure itself.
Saucer wheels tend to be quieter than other types of wheels, too, so they won’t disturb you or your hamster at night. But ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if a flying saucer wheel is right for your pet. If you’re unsure, consult a veterinarian or other expert for advice.