Hamsters like to scurry and run about. Back in the old days, before they were domesticated, they were hunted by all sorts of predators. Cats, dogs snakes and other animals would pursue them so to survive they had to be fit and strong. Therefore fitness and exercise is important for their good health. Fortunately for our pets there is a wide choice of fine hamster toys available to help keep them fit and healthy.
The hamster wheel is by far the most familiar hamster toy. Without a doubt every hamster ought to have one. Finding the right one for your hamster isn't costly or complicated however there are a few things you ought to bear in mind.
The initial, one might say, is size. However it isn't always. Buying a hamster wheel that's too bulky might make your pet ill at ease but purchasing one that's too small will be an even bigger problem and could not be used at all. A dwarf hamster will be best off in a smallish hamster wheel while a golden hamster will want more room and will need something a lot larger.
I would fervently recommend the clear plastic sort of wheel. We initially had a wire wheel however our dwarf hamsters often slipped on the rungs and their feet would slip through the gap. Luckily they never wounded themselves, however they could have. In addition the plastic type of hamster wheels are easy to rinse and keep sanitary, so are the wire wheels you can think, but they soon become rusty once immersed in water.
They're a couple of additional things to bear in mind, and one is sound levels! Not a completely evident consideration. However for those of us who have or who have had hamsters, we know they're primarily nocturnal and are using their hamster toys at night. Whilst we're sleeping comfortably. So it's a sensible hamster owner who spins the hamster wheel before purchasing to test for squeaks or other noise. Find a type were you can remove the wheel part from the spindle, this makes it easier to rinse and rub down and allows for giving the axle some grease when putting it back on (a very good idea).
Good quality hamster toys are worth the few penny's extra they might cost. A good quality product will be safe for your hamster and will survive the steady chewing and use a lively hamster can give it.
