Having the wrong type and size of wheel can cause all sorts of problems (spinal damage, neck injuries and broken toes to name a few). With our handy guide, hopefully you won't be wheely confused any more!

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All hamsters:

Should be able to run in their wheel without having to significantly bend their back.

Should have a smooth plastic or wooden wheel.

Shouldn't have a wire mesh style wheel (can cause bumblefoot and toe injuries).

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Syrian hamsters:

Should have a wheel of 8 inches or more in diameter.

The most popular wheels for Syrians are Wodent Wheels (in the picture on the left). They aren't usually sold in petshops, but you can order them online           

However, as long as it's 8 inches in diameter or more and it's not wire mesh style, you're good to go with any wheel you choose!

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Dwarf Hamsters:
Should have a wheel of 6 inches of more in diameter.

Should have a wheel per hamster if they are kept in a group.

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If you like a natural look, a wooden wheel may be the way to go. You may wish to protect this from wee stains with a sort of non toxic plastic 'paint' called Plastikote. This can be purchased from most DIY stores in the UK.

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Flying Saucers:

You can also get some pretty nifty wheels called 'Flying Saucers' (there's one at the right of the picture on the left) Some hamsters prefer to run on these, some hamsters prefer standard wheels.