Hamsters

how long do hamsters run on their wheel


How Long do Hamsters Run on their Wheel?

Hamsters are endearing and cute creatures that keep many people captivated. One of their most recognizable attributes is the wheel they use to get exercise, but how long do they typically spend running?

Hamster Wheels in the Wild

Hamsters in the wild don’t use wheels, since they get plenty of exercise from foraging for food and playing in their tunnel systems. They spend most of the day and night exploring their areas and, since they are nocturnal, they often spend much of this time at night.

Hamster Wheels at Home

Hamsters kept in homes, however, often rely on their wheel for most of their exercise, as it may not be feasible for them to explore and play like they can in the wild. With these hamsters, the amount of exercise they get varies depending on the type of wheel, but they may run anywhere from several hours a day, up to 8 or 9 hours.

Factors that Influence Running Time

The amount of time a hamster runs on its wheel can be affected by a few different factors, including:

  • Type of Wheel: Most cages come with a plastic wheel that is smaller than those found in the wild, so hamsters may find it less desirable to use for extended amounts of time. Exercise wheels with greater size, depth and more solid construction may be more interesting for hamsters to use.
  • Age: Older hamsters may not be able to run for lengthy amounts of time.
  • Health: A hamster’s health can also affect how much they choose to exercise and how long they stay on their wheel.

Tips for Encouraging Wheel Use

To encourage hamsters to use their wheel and get adequate amounts of exercise, consider these tips:

  • Make sure the wheel is the right size or diameter and is securely attached to the cage.
  • Add toys, treats or hammocks to the wheel to make it more enticing.
  • Provide interesting things to explore between each section of the cage.
  • Adjust their diet if they have gained too much weight or have become lethargic.

Overall, hamsters living in the wild may spend hours exploring, playing and foraging, while hamsters living in captivity may spend several hours running on their wheel, depending on the type of wheel, their age and health. To encourage healthy behaviors, it’s important to make sure the wheel is the right size and is securely attached, as well as provide interesting and engaging things for them to explore.

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