Why Do Hamsters Run On The Wheel?

If there is one image that comes to mind when it comes to hamsters, it is that of the little rodent running on a wheel. It really is a classic. Have you ever wondered why hamsters run on the wheel ? In this article, we will answer this  age-old question.

The hamster is one of the most requested pets, especially by families with children. Little ones love these tiny rodents, and parents know that caring for them will increase their sense of responsibility, helping them thrive. Although the noise caused by the hamster wheel can sometimes become annoying, this activity is essential for the health of your four-legged friend. Let’s see why.

Do hamsters run on the wheel out of necessity?

The answer is yes!”. Hamsters need 3 things to have a happy life: water, food and a wheel to run. Rodents, especially smaller ones, need to be always on the move.

This comes from their ancestors, who spent their time running away from predators, which turned them into restless and nervous beings. A hamster spends a lot of time sleeping and resting, but most will spend it “playing sports”.

The truth is that these animals are not made to live in a cage, since they have to move around for as long as possible. Just having a running wheel can be essential to their life. A detail, perhaps trivial, but that you will always have to keep in mind when you decide to welcome these docile and fragile animals into your home.

The wheel, an indispensable pastime

We said that a hamster needs 3 things to live  (food, water and a wheel to run). But even humans cannot do without 3 things: food, water and, of course, air. What would happen if one were missing? If a hamster were deprived of his favorite pastime, he would suffer greatly.

This treadmill species   is vital for your small pet rodent. You do not have to believe that it is just a toy that serves to embellish the cage. It is an indispensable accessory, like the bowl for water and hamster food.

Hamsters running on the wheel are happier

In addition to being part of its life and able to satisfy the survival instincts typical of the species, the wheel guarantees serenity and emotional balance to the hamster  .

On the other hand, don’t forget that by exercising, your favorite pet will stay in top shape, keeping his muscles and joints toned, as well as his heart and other vital organs.

A hamster running on the wheel will grow up  healthy and happy.

What else to do for your hamster?

In their wild life, hamsters were used to having 3  different habitats . A place to walk and run, another to sleep and, finally, the last to rest.

Therefore, we advise you to  divide the cage into several spaces. This will help the animal feel in a more natural environment. It will feel more comfortable, like at home, with the family.

There are also special hamster balls  that will allow him to move and move around the house, avoiding any kind of danger. Gently place the animal inside the sphere and let it drain all its energy. Remember to stop this activity after about  15 minutes, as too much exercise could be stressful and counterproductive for the small animal.

In short,  running is a vital activity for these small rodents: once you choose a suitable cage, remember to immediately install a hamster wheel. Knowing these kinds of details will help you take care of your hamster  more correctly, thus safeguarding his health, both mental and physical.

Source of main image: Ko1.