Running wheels are an essential part of a hedgehog’s cage setup because they serve as their main outlet for releasing built-up energies generated from consumed calories. The right wheel can make a massive difference in the life of pet hedgehogs by enhancing their moods and promoting excellent health.
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What Running Wheel Is Best For A Hedgehog?
The best running wheels for hedgehogs feature a 10.5-inch to 12-inch diameter and offer a smooth running surface devoid of holes or ridges. The construction should be solid with no parts rubbing against each other to cause friction and resultant noise.
Hedgehogs spend a lot of time running at night and it is not uncommon for them to sprint for up to 3 hours before dawn breaks. Getting a comfortable running surface is non-negotiable and the presence of holes, seams, or ridges on the surface could expose their legs to a trove of fractures and breakages resulting in limping and running or even walking difficulties.
The presence of holes in a running wheel can also make cleaning difficult which may be critical since hedgehogs poop on their wheels constantly.
5 Critical Factors To Consider Before Buying Hedgehog Wheels
Here are the 5 main factors to consider when in the market for a new running wheel for pet hedgehogs. Failure to conduct a proper analysis of these factors can increase the risk of making the wrong choice.
- Smooth surface
- At least a 12-inch diameter
- Absence of holes, seams, and ridges
- Durability
- Price
What is The Best Wheel Available For Sale Today?
The Kaytee Comfort Wheel is the best running wheel for hedgehogs of all ages and sizes in our experience. At an impressive diameter of 12 inches, hedgehogs are able to run as long as they desire without exposure to sore feet thanks to the smooth surface and absence of holes or seams.
It comes in a free-standing design that offers stability to hedgehogs and prevents the risk of slippage during the most intense running speeds. They fit into all cages and enclosures without effort. Our 2 hedgehogs currently run on this wheel and love every second of their time on it.
The Niteangel Super Silent Wheel is another popular option on the market right now with recommendations from everyone on hedgehog forums and social media. It is our 2nd-rated hedgehog running wheel and worth a shot considering the amazing independent reviews from current users across the Web.
What Type of Wheel Should You Avoid?
Wheels come in many types but not all of them are beneficial for your hedgehogs, especially in the long term. Here are popular options that should be avoided.
Silent Runner Wheels
Silent Runner wheels can be alluring due to their whisper-quiet operation. They may sound like a welcome change after suffering from a noisy wheel in the past but Silent Runners could do more harm than good.
The presence of the front panel may pose difficulties for hedgehogs to get in and out of while cleaning could also cause problems since the wheel needs to be disintegrated for full access to all parts.
Wire Mesh Wheels
Wire Mesh hedgehog wheels are another popular type to stay away from because their running surface design increases the risk of foot injuries. Bloody and sore feet are common in pet hedgehogs forced to exercise on these wheels and they may be exposed to other forms of infections.
Besides, the hedgehog’s quills could easily get stuck in the wire resulting in increased susceptibility to significant stress as they try to free themselves.
Flying Saucer Wheels
Flying saucer wheels are another option to avoid when looking for a running outlet for your hedgehogs. Not only are the running surfaces hard for hedgehogs to get used to but they also break easily and may fling poop across the whole cage area.
While hoglets may be able to run on flying saucers without problems, the weight of adults often causes breakages.
Metal Treadmill Wheels
Metal Treadmill Wheels feature the same engineering as flying saucers with the main difference being the use of metal compared to the plastic components. They may be an attractive option for hedgehogs that have spent the majority of their lives running on flying saucer wheels.
Besides, cages with limited space between the ceiling and floor should have no problems fitting these wheels. Metallic treadmill wheels also feature a sturdier base that is less prone to breakages compared to their all-plastic cousins.
However, the one-sided slant could be a source of long-term health issues like joint and bone problems although there are no studies to back up this theory.
Due to the use of sturdy materials, metallic treadmill wheels can be more expensive than regular flying saucers.
How Long Do Hedgehogs Run On Their Wheels?
Hedgehogs can run on their wheels for up to 3 hours depending on factors like their moods and state of health. Some hedgehogs are naturally more energetic and spend a lot of time running at night while others may not be so keen.
Happy hedgehogs also spend more time on wheels especially after being served their favorite treats. Overweight breeds may spend little time running since the excess pounds make them prone to exhaustion.
Why Won’t My Hedgehog Use His Wheel?
Naive hedgehogs may refuse to use wheels in their cages because of a lack of familiarity with the popular toy. Once they get officially introduced and experience how much fun running can be, their owners never have to worry about the use of the wheels again.
Extremely sick hedgehogs may have little strength to run at night and would rather sleep or stay away from their wheels. Also, elderly hedgehogs with weak organs could abandon their running wheels during their final moments.
Conclusion: What Running Wheel is Best For A Hedgehog?
The Kaytee Comfort Wheel is the best running wheel for hedgehogs when they wake up after sleeping throughout the daytime. It offers a smooth 12-inch diameter surface for extended sprinting among hedgehogs of all ages.
Avoid flying saucer wheels, metal treadmill wheels, and silent spinner wheels because they can make hedgehogs prone to physical injuries like sore feet and joint problems. These wheels may also be prone to disturbing noises that could keep household members up at night.