How to choose a wheel your hamster will love

Illustrated Guga

Why size matters

A wheel that's too small makes a hamster arch its back while running, which many keepers and vets link to back problems. A common guideline is a running surface around 11 inches (27 cm) or larger for Syrian hamsters, and at least about 8.5 inches (22 cm) for dwarf hamsters.

A quick checklist

• Solid running surface, with no rungs or mesh for little feet to slip through
• No open back or cross-bar in the middle
• Quiet, smooth rotation
• Stable on its stand or firmly secured

Wheel or ball?

A wheel is something your hamster chooses to use. Hamster balls can be frightening and unsafe, so many keepers skip them and let hamsters run in a secure play area instead.

Already have a wheel?

That's completely fine. Watch your hamster run: a curved back is a gentle sign that a bigger wheel may be worth considering when you're ready.