Do hamsters need a wheel, or is a ball enough for nightly exercise?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male
Hi, I have two hamsters, male. They are both new and they fight a lot so I decided to separate them. One on them has a wheel in the cage and the other does not. I have read that hamsters need a wheel at night because they are nocturnal animals. Is it okay if I let my hamster run in the ball in the evening for a few hours instead of getting a new cage?.
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Published on June 1st, 2018
Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is definitely a good idea to separate your hamsters to avoid fighting. While a running wheel or ball are great activities it doesn’t necessarily meet a hamster’s normal behavior to burrow. I recommend providing plenty of nesting material in both cages. You can also provide various tubes that encourage further burrowing or huts that allow for hiding and establishing a territory. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any other questions you have!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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