Hamster exercise

Exercise is a vital part of keeping your hamster healthy and happy. Hamsters are naturally active animals, and in the wild, they run for miles each night. To replicate this behavior in captivity, it’s essential to provide them with the right tools for exercise. The most important accessory is an exercise wheel. Make sure the wheel is appropriately sized for your hamster to avoid injury—small species, like dwarf hamsters, need smaller wheels, while larger hamsters, like Syrians, require a bigger one. The wheel should have a solid running surface, as wire wheels can cause injury to their feet.

In addition to the exercise wheel, providing a variety of toys and tunnels will encourage your hamster to explore and stay active. Hamsters also love to climb, so multi-level cages or adding accessories like ladders and platforms can stimulate their natural curiosity. You can also let your hamster exercise outside the cage in a safe playpen or hamster ball for supervised activity. This helps prevent boredom and allows them to burn off extra energy. Ensuring your hamster gets plenty of exercise not only promotes physical health but also helps prevent behavioral problems like chewing or cage aggression, making for a happier and more balanced pet.