How do hamsters know to run on the wheel?
In general, hamsters know to run on the wheel based on instinct and wanting to move. Hamsters are renowned for covering long distances during the day and love exercising. This involves running at a fast speed, which can easily be replicated once the hamster wheel starts moving.
It’s important to note, not all hamsters like using the hamster wheel. It’s not a given that your hamster is going to enjoy this accessory!
It’s best to take a bit of time to set up the right hamster wheel inside the cage and then see whether or not the hamster prefers using it.
The benefits of a hamster wheel include:
- Increased Physical Activity
- Ideal of Mental Health
- Keeps the Weight Down
When it comes to setting up a hamster wheel, make sure to find the right one and the hamster will end up using it at one point or another.
This article will further analyze the question, “How do hamsters know to run on the wheel?” along with taking a peek at tips for keeping a hamster fit.
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Tips for Keeping Your Hamster Active Year-Round
Tip #1: Set Up a Good Hamster Wheel
The first thing you are going to do is to set up a hamster wheel.
If you are asking, “How do hamsters know to run on the wheel?” this means you already understand the importance of this accessory in their cages.
As a result, you need to make a proper investment and find the right hamster wheel for your pet.
The hamster wheel should be safe to use, fast, and durable.
This is a must because the hamster shouldn’t get hurt when it is running as fast as it can.
The right hamster wheel is one that is going to fit snugly and is going to spin the way a hamster wants it to.
Tip #2: Use a Hamster Ball
A hamster ball is one of the better investments a hamster owner can make.
In general, a hamster wheel is set inside the cage and will continue to spin in one place. This is great for the long-term, but what if the hamster is getting antsy inside the cage?
This is when you are going to want to take out the hamster ball.
The benefits include:
- Ideal for Exploring the Environment
- Unique Experience
- Great for Mental Health
The hamster ball is great when it comes to letting the hamster explore its surroundings.
Plus, it is a great way to make sure your hamster doesn’t try escaping all the time when it gets the opportunity to do so.
Tip #3: Socialize with the Hamster
Socializing with your hamster is going to be key and is often overlooked by hamster owners.
This means taking the time to hold your hamster and bond with it. Hamsters are going to enjoy their time with you and that is what you have to aim for.
Don’t assume leaving them in the cage with toys, a hamster wheel, and other accessories is enough. It won’t be when they are alone!
Take the time out of your day to focus on the hamster and socialize with it.
This can be something as simple as being near the cage and speaking to the hamster. Yes, even something as simple as this will help.
Tip #4: Set Up Hamster Toys in the Cage
Hamster toys come in various shapes and sizes, which allows you to choose the right fit for your pet.
It’s essential to purchase hamster toys as a way to keep your hamster active inside the cage. Otherwise, they are going to get bored.
It’s recommended to focus on going with something that’s well-rounded and will allow the hamster to have a good time when it isn’t running on the hamster wheel.
If you are asking, “How do hamsters know to run on the wheel?” it’s also important to think about what they do when they aren’t using that accessory. Remember, just the hamster wheel isn’t going to get the job done and that’s the wrong assumption to have.
You need to invest in good hamster toys to add value to the pet’s life.
Final Thoughts
How do hamsters know to run on the wheel?
It is always going to come down to them being inquisitive animals that take a serious interest in their surroundings. Whether this has to do with the hamster food, bedding, or any other toy, you are going to see the hamster play around with these items.
It is a natural instinct that doesn’t go away as soon as they are inside the cage.
As a result, you are going to see them take a liking to the hamster wheel as soon as they understand that it moves.
For more on what a hamster needs on a daily basis – good essential oil for hamsters, how to ensure hamster doesn’t leave the cage, understanding why hamster isn’t using the hamster wheel, and creating a good sand bath for hamsters.