Can Dwarf Hamsters Climb?  

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Dwarf hamsters are popular, adorable pets you can purchase at most major pet stores. When someone envisions the future set-up of their furry friend, an enclosure of bright, colorful toys to run around and climb on may come to mind. But not all hamster-advertised objects are truly hamster-approved, particularly for dwarf hamsters.  

Dwarf Hamsters are not good climbers because their fuzzy feet make it hard for them to get a strong grip on surfaces. Any climbing obstacles in their homes, like tubes, need to be on a slope, not vertical. 

Keep reading to learn more about dwarf hamsters, their lack of climbing abilities, and other options for physical exercise for your pet. 

Why Do Dwarf Hamsters Have Trouble Climbing?

Dwarf hamsters come in four species: Campbell, Winter White (sometimes combined into a single ‘Russian’ species), and Roborovski (‘Robo’). Campbell, Winter White, and Robo dwarfs are bad at climbing, but Chinese dwarfs are the best climbers of the bunch. Dwarf hamsters have furry feet, which makes it hard for them to climb as they can’t get a firm grip on the surface, especially plastic. 

So why can Chinese dwarf hamsters climb relatively well if the other three species can’t? That’s because, technically, Chinese dwarfs aren’t really dwarf hamsters; they’re just smaller than Syrian hamsters and therefore put into the ‘dwarf’ category. 

Can Syrian Hamsters Climb?

Syrian Hamsters are larger than the dwarf species, but that’s not the only difference between them. As their feet aren’t covered by fur, Syrian hamsters can get a good grip on things – even plastic tubes – and will climb around in their enclosures. Check out this article on PetKeen for more comparisons between Syrian and Dwarf hamsters.

Can Dwarf Hamsters Climb Tubes?

Dwarf Hamsters will not be able to climb vertical tubes unless it’s on a slope, particularly a slippery plastic one. A forty-five-degree angle is the steepest you want to go, so completely vertical colorful, plastic tubes are not a good fit for their cages.  

Non-steep bridges are one way to provide multiple levels for your Dwarf Hamster. Ladders are another option when placed on a slope, but you need to make sure that the rungs aren’t too far apart. One option is a toy set like this Hamiledyi Hamster Hideout Wooden House and Bridge Set on Amazon.com. The two bridges/ladders are flexible so that you can set them up at just the right angle. In addition, the natural wood means it’s safe for your pets to chew and gnaw on. 

However, this doesn’t mean that tubes are out of the picture regarding physical exercise for your pet. Dwarf hamsters are burrowers and tunnelers, so horizontal tubes are an option. Consider putting together a maze on the ground for them to run through. 

What Types of Toys Are Good for Dwarf Hamsters?

Since dwarf hamsters aren’t great at climbing, you will want to look at other types of toys to keep them entertained and healthy. Hamster wheels, balls, and different types of small toys are all great options. Here are a few from Amazon.com to help start your search for your dwarf hamster’s next favorite item. 

Kaytee Run-about 7” Exercise Ball

Available in multiple colors, this excise ball is a safe way to let your Dwarf hamster run and explore the house outside their tank. Sturdy and easy to clean, this is an excellent option for supervised exploration and exercise. 

Nanaborn Hamster Wheel Saucer Silent Spinner

Every hamster, even Dwarf Hamsters, needs a hamster wheel. These wheels are a great way for your pet to get out all that extra energy, and this one, in particular, is designed for the smaller size of dwarfs. In addition, it’s quiet and won’t make a racket when your hamster decides to go for a run late at night. 

Niteangel Natural Wooden Tunnel Tube 

Shaped like a fallen tree log, this 7.4 inch (18.8 cm) long wood tunnel can be placed on the ground of your dwarf’s enclosure as a fun toy to run through. The center and side holes measure 1.4 inches (3.6 cm) wide, specifically for small animals. Being made of natural wood, this tunnel is also safe for your little friend to chew on.  

In addition to above-ground toys, ensure your Dwarf hamster has more than enough bedding to burrow down into. Read this article on Hamsters101 for more information on how much and what types to use. 

Conclusion

As Dwarf Hamsters are not great at climbing due to their furry feet, you’ll want to avoid vertical climbing toys, including plastic tubes, unless they can be adjusted to a less steep angle. Instead, look for horizontal tunnels and pipes, as well as class hamster toys such as wheels and exercise balls, when considering options for the physical exercise your small furry friend needs.

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