What size wheel for syrian hamster?
Generally, you do not want to provide your hamster with a wheel smaller than 8 inches (20 cm) in size, especially when it comes to dwarf hamsters. Syrians will need a wheel between 10 to 12 inches (25-30 cm) in size because they get very large.
“Tierärztliche Vereinigung für Tierschutz (TVT) recommends wheels should be at least 20cm (8″) for Dwarf Hamsters and at least 30cm (12″) for Syrian Hamsters, since smaller diameters lead to permanent spinal curvatures, especially in young animals.
Syrians, which are the largest hamster species, need wheels that are at least 11”-12”. 8” is too small, especially if it makes the hamster bend its back in a u-shape.
How to choose the right hamster size? It is recommended that you choose a wheel of 8.2 inches for dwarf and Roborovski hamsters and at least 10.2 inches for larger Syrian and other larger hamsters.
It is recommended that you choose a wheel of 21 cm for dwarf and Roborovski hamsters and at least 26 cm for larger Syrian and other larger hamsters. It's really important that you don't give your hamster a wheel that is too small for them.
“Tierärztliche Vereinigung für Tierschutz (TVT) recommends wheels should be at least 20cm (8″) for Dwarf Hamsters and at least 30cm (12″) for Syrian Hamsters, since smaller diameters lead to permanent spinal curvatures, especially in young animals.
For Syrians: 8–12 inches is typically a common size that is suitable for most.
A 12-inch hamster wheel for a tiny dwarf hamster will be too big. If they can't keep up with the pace of the wheel, they might fly off and get injured. If they do keep up, they can quickly become exhausted and dehydrated. Thankfully, you can buy a hamster wheel in pretty much every size these days.
Syrians, which are the largest hamster species, need wheels that are at least 11”-12”. 8” is too small, especially if it makes the hamster bend its back in a u-shape. That can cause problems for it, such as pain and spine problems.
The 'Veterinary Association for Animal Welfare'recommends wheels should be at least 20cm (8″) for Dwarf Hamsters and 30cm (12″) for Syrian Hamsters – these are widely available to buy online.
What happens if your hamster wheel is too small?
Generally, a good rule of thumb is to provide a wheel at least 6 inches in diameter for dwarf hamsters, and at least 8 inches in diameter for Syrian or normal-sized hamsters. A mis proportioned wheel will cause a hamster to bend their back at an unnatural angle.
16.5cm diameter wheel is ideal for dwarf hamsters, mice, gerbils or other small animals.
For example, if your hamster is eating a lot of seeds, a lot of treats, or a lot of food filled with sugar, it will gain weight unnecessarily. It is OK to give your hamster a special treat every now and then, but it shouldn't make up a significant portion of its diet.
Syrians, which are the largest hamster species, need wheels that are at least 11”-12”. 8” is too small, especially if it makes the hamster bend its back in a u-shape. That can cause problems for it, such as pain and spine problems.
The best way to tell is to let her show you, usually a good rule of thumb is that they can fit through openings up to twice as big as their heads.
Some Syrians can be bigger hamsters than others, so if you find your hamster's back bends on the 8 inch, you will have to upgrade to the 11 inch or 12 inch. Don't worry if the wheel seems too big for the hamster. There isn't really such a thing as a wheel that is "too big."
Hamster Wheel Size
Generally, a good rule of thumb is to provide a wheel at least 6 inches in diameter for dwarf hamsters, and at least 8 inches in diameter for Syrian or normal-sized hamsters. A mis proportioned wheel will cause a hamster to bend their back at an unnatural angle.
Mesh/wire wheels can cause bumps on their feet called bumble foot (look it up it's super gross). Having a wheel that's too small can break your hamster's back and cause other issues. Flying saucer wheels can be good for dwarf hamsters as long as it's big enough. But don't use it for your Syrian.
Syrian hamsters must always be kept alone as they are solitary animals, but if you choose a different breed of hamster that prefers a cage-mate, it is important to consider which pairings are best.
In addition to wood chews, cardboard can be provided for chewing (and hiding). Hamsters also love cardboard tubes from paper towel and toilet paper rolls and there are now commercial tubes that are a bit sturdier and are said to be safe for chewing (e.g. Totally Chewbular Play Tubes).
What is the quietest hamster wheel?
Hamsters like to playing at night, Niteangel hamster wheels are designed with double ball bearings to ensure the wheel glides smooth and silent. The silent design not only allows the hamster to better relieve stress and break boredom, but also allow you and your family to have a quiet sleep.
Hamster Wheel Size
Generally, a good rule of thumb is to provide a wheel at least 6 inches in diameter for dwarf hamsters, and at least 8 inches in diameter for Syrian or normal-sized hamsters.
Blue Cross have provided a warning against small hamster wheels. They Say “Important – Some cages are sold with wheels included but these are not always suitable. A hamster should be able to use an exercise wheel without curving their spine or raising their head, as this can cause back problems.”
As a general rule, you want replacement tires that are within 3 percent of the diameter (height) measurement of your existing tires' diameter — assuming your current tires are what your owner's manual recommends.
Some advantages of larger wheels include traction, better cornering and braking, and better aesthetics. Larger wheels offer better traction, and because they have more rubber on the tire, this also means a better grip on the road. Larger tires are better for car cornering and handling than your regular tires.
One of the most significant benefits of larger wheel size is increasing the vehicle's stability because the wheels cover a wider surface area and increase vehicle stability. Larger wheels significantly reduce the braking distance, while smaller wheels require a greater stopping distance.
A multi-level cage will allow your hamster to climb and make the most of the space in his/her cage and you can place tunnels and toys in it for your hamster to explore. Wire sides will allow them to climb around the bars of the cage – a favourite pastime and great exercise!
For example on the Wikipedia Hamster Wheel Page it says: “Tierärztliche Vereinigung für Tierschutz (TVT) recommends wheels should be at least 20cm (8″) for Dwarf Hamsters and at least 30cm (12″) for Syrian Hamsters, since smaller diameters lead to permanent spinal curvatures, especially in young animals.
Hamsters and Degus will benefit from a sand bath several times a week. Unlike chinchillas their use is not essential, but they are wonderful treats and help keep their shiny healthy coats. Top Tip: It's best not to keep the sand bath in their cage all the time, as overuse can cause drying out of their skin.
There are concerns that such products may, in fact, be stressful for hamsters and so the RSPCA does not recommend their use.
What are bad wheels for hamsters?
Wire-style wheels are one of the worst options you can provide for your hamster. A hamster's legs can fit through the openings and should the animal slip, his leg could get caught between the wires and fracture. However, there are wheels designed to be solid that help prevent fractures.
“Tierärztliche Vereinigung für Tierschutz (TVT) recommends wheels should be at least 20cm (8″) for Dwarf Hamsters and at least 30cm (12″) for Syrian Hamsters, since smaller diameters lead to permanent spinal curvatures, especially in young animals.
21cm Running Drum: recommended for most Dwarf Hamsters, such as small-sized Roborovski hamsters, Campbell hamsters, Chinese hamsters, Lemmings, mice, or tiny Gerbils.
Syrian hamsters must live on their own as they are territorial mammals and will start to fight with each other once they have reached maturity, which is between 8 and 12 weeks. Syrian hamsters should never be kept in pairs or groups once mature.
Syrians enjoy fruit and veg 1-2 times a week and can also have small amounts of cook chicken and dog biscuits. Syrian hamsters are without a doubt solitary animals and should never be housed with another hamster. Dwarf species are more likely to tolerate a cage mate, but are much happier when kept alone.
The right cage for your hamster
Most hamster cages sold in shops aren't big enough to even meet a hamster's most basic needs, so instead, we recommend providing them with a much larger space, such as an extra-large cage, glass tank, or home-made enclosure.
The size of your hamster wheel depends on the size of your full-grown hamster. Your hamster should be able to run in the wheel without its back arching too much (if at all), but if the wheel is too big, your hamster will have a difficult time actually running and moving the wheel.
Hamsters and Degus will benefit from a sand bath several times a week. Unlike chinchillas their use is not essential, but they are wonderful treats and help keep their shiny healthy coats. Top Tip: It's best not to keep the sand bath in their cage all the time, as overuse can cause drying out of their skin.
Best for Syrian Hamsters: Kaytee Silent Spinner Small Animal Exercise Wheel. The Kaytee Silent Spinner Small Animal Exercise Wheel is the perfect wheel for Syrian hamsters. Syrian hamsters are one of the largest species of domesticated hamsters which means that they need a large wheel to accommodate their size.
Blue Cross have provided a warning against small hamster wheels. They Say “Important – Some cages are sold with wheels included but these are not always suitable. A hamster should be able to use an exercise wheel without curving their spine or raising their head, as this can cause back problems.”
Is a wheel or saucer better for hamsters?
open design — some hamsters hug the wall when they run, so a closed wheel can be preferred. Saucer vs. wheel — saucers can offer a flatter running surface than a traditional upright wheel; however, they do take up more space.
Blue Cross Also Say: “Often, hamster wheels sold along with a hamster cage are too small. Despite this fact, hamsters will continue to use the small wheels and over time it can cause damage to the spine. Therefore, these wheels should be replaced with a suitable alternative.
Animal welfare considerations. Tierärztliche Vereinigung für Tierschutz (TVT) recommends wheels should be at least 20 cm (8") for dwarf hamsters and at least 30 cm (12") for Syrian hamsters, since smaller diameters lead to permanent spinal curvatures, especially in young animals.
Hamsters and Degus will benefit from a sand bath several times a week. Unlike chinchillas their use is not essential, but they are wonderful treats and help keep their shiny healthy coats. Top Tip: It's best not to keep the sand bath in their cage all the time, as overuse can cause drying out of their skin.
