Why does my Syrian hamster not use his wheel?

One of the most common reasons a hamster may no longer use their wheel is due to its size. A wheel being too large may also be a problem. It might be too large for the hamster to make it turn properly. If your hamster is otherwise active, then it could be a problem with the wheel’s size.

Can a hamster use a 12 inch wheel?

The size of the hamster wheel you need will vary depending on the type of hamster you have. The size will also depend on the sex of your hamster, with females tending to be larger than males. For Syrian hamsters, the wheel should be between 8-12 inches. For dwarf hamsters, the wheel should be at least 6 inches.

How big should a hamster wheel be for a Syrian hamster?

[Update: The minimum wheel size for Syrian hamsters has been updated to be 27cm in line with our stance on minimum wheel sizes. ]

Do hamsters get bored of their wheel?

Hamsters are intelligent creatures who require entertainment in order to be happy. While a wheel can certainly offer entertainment, hamsters can also get bored running on a wheel night after night. Make your hamster as happy as possible by using toys and interacting with your new pet.

Why is my hamster not being active?

Lethargy. As previously mentioned, hamsters are active and energetic animals, so if you see a hamster that lacks energy or is being sluggish, have them evaluated by a veterinarian. “Any time a hamster is acting lethargic we start to worry,” says Ochoa. “Hamster’s do not show signs of sickness until they are very sick.”

Is a 12 inch wheel too big for a Syrian hamster?

Syrians typically need at least a 8 inch wheel, but if a large Syrian may need a 12 inch. A mesh wheel is definitely NOT good, and you must only get solid wheels as there are illnesses and injuries connected by mesh or metal wheels. Any wheel that comes with a cage is likely too small.

Are saucer wheels good for Syrian hamsters?

Flying saucer wheels can be good for dwarf hamsters as long as it’s big enough. But don’t use it for your Syrian.

Is 9 inch wheel OK for Syrian?

Some Syrian hamsters are suited by a 9 inch wheel, however most usually need a larger one like the 11 inch.

Why won’t my hamster stop running in his wheel?

Hamsters eat a variety of foods such as sunflower seeds that are high in energy content. These foods make them hyperactive and they take to running on the wheel to burn off excess energy. If the exercise wheel is the only “equipment” in the cage, it is likely that your hamster will suffer from wheel addiction.

How do you entertain a Syrian hamster?

How to Entertain a Hamster

1. Choose a Safe Wheel. A hamster can get his foot caught in the bars of a wire wheel, which can lead to a broken limb.
2. Provide Interactive Toys. There are a number of interactive hamster toys to choose from.
3. Alternate Toys.
4. Hide Treats.
5. Play With Her.

Why is my hamster not using his wheel anymore?

One of the most common reasons a hamster may no longer use their wheel is due to its size. If the wheel is too small for a hamster, it can be painful as it will bend their backs awkwardly. This makes movement very painful and they may stop using it altogether.

What size wheel for a dwarf hamster?

A dwarf hamster should be able to run easily on an 8″ comfort wheel, and I have found that most of my dwarfs have vastly preferred their comfort wheels to their silent spinners. If they have one of each, they almost exclusively run on the comfort wheel.

Can a hamster run on a silent spinner?

If they have one of each, they almost exclusively run on the comfort wheel. (The comfort wheels sometimes rattle as they age, but if you could get your hamster regularly running on a comfort wheel, you may be able to transition him over to a silent spinner later).

Can I get a hamster ball for my hamster?

My hamster, didn’t use her wheel until a month after I got her. She didn’t have a wheel in the pet store. But who knows, maybe you can get a hamster ball for him. Another possibility is if the wheel is to small. Some dwarf hamsters do need a 8 inch wheel, as crazy is it sounds. I hope this helped.