Are Hamster Balls Bad? What You Should Know

Hamsters are one of the world’s most adorable pets, their cuteness easily hijacks the hearts of so many. And for this reason, hamsters owners’ priority is only to provide their pets with the best food, toys, accessories, and cage.

This need has given rise to the use of hamster balls to keep hamsters happy and active while in captivity. However, some are in doubt about using these balls for their hamster due to the ceaseless debate about their safety. Hence the question: Are hamster balls bad?

Yes, hamster balls are bad especially when used inadequately. Hamsters balls can keep hamsters busy or active in very limited space but it comes with a lot of risks that outweigh the benefits.

Hamster balls are transparent globes that allow hamsters to roam freely but in a contained space. The sole purpose of this hamster accessory is to help provide hamsters with enough exercise while in the cage.

In this blog post, we will explore all the information you need about hamster balls and provide a clear understanding to help you make well-informed decisions for your adorable pet.

What Are Hamster Balls?

Hamster balls are clear globes specially designed for small rodent pets such as hamsters, pet mice, and guinea pigs. It is very efficient for keeping these little pets safe and secure while they scamper about in the house.

It also helps owners easily find their pets while they are out exercising. Hamster balls are made from highly durable materials that are see-through. Multiple holes are intentionally poked into them to allow air in while in use by hamsters.

Although it is beneficial to allow your hamster to use them, there are several dangers associated with their use one of which is stress and the possibility of an injury this is why it is best to take necessary precautions with hamster balls.

Are Hamster Ball Safe For Hamsters?

To be forthright the safety of hamster balls to hamsters can only be determined by how they are being used and the design and size of the hamster ball. When hamsters are overexercised they become stressed as they burn too many calories than they ought to.

We do not recommend hamster balls as the potential damage they can cause to hamsters exceeds the intended advantage and this can take a toll on your hamster’s health over time if precautions are not taken.

As a general rule of thumb, hamsters are supposed to consume at least 28 kcal to 58 kcal and burn 9 kcal to 16 kcal per day just by going about their usual day-to-day activities. However, with hamster balls and too much exercise the calorie burnt will be way beyond normal thereby causing fatigue.

Pros And Cons Of Hamster Balls

It is known that hamster balls have their setbacks and benefits like all else. Here are the pros and cons that you should be aware of before making the decision of adding this exercise accessory to your pet routine;

Pros Of Hamster Balls

• Hamster balls help to keep your hamster active similarly to when they are in the wild.
• This can provide the stimulation that hamsters need to alleviate or keep boredom at bay as they can freely roam around the house.
• Hamsters are susceptible to getting overweight or obese, hamster balls can help manage their weight and keep them in good shape.
• Hamster balls are the best way to ensure your hamster’s safety when you allow them out of their cage. With hamster balls, you can easily find your pet anywhere around the house.

Cons Of Hamster Balls

• Hamster balls may have multiple holes to ensure ventilation but that doesn’t mean it is well ventilated. There is a risk of your suffocating while running around in the hamster ball.
• Hamsters can potentially hurt their feet while running for too long in the hamster ball.
• Running round and round in the hamster ball can leave hamsters feeling fatigued. Their feet may get stuck in one of the ventilation holes resulting in a more serious leg injury.
• It may sometimes be difficult for your hamster to stop the ball from rolling causing accidents like falling from the stairs to happen.
• Hamsters have really terrible vision and going round and round in the ball can make their condition worst.

Preventive Measures To Take With Hamster Balls

Although hamster balls promise to keep your hamster safe while they scurry around and about the house, there are still precautionary measures to take if you do decide to use this exercise tool for your little fur ball;

1. Make sure to closely supervise your hamster while in the ball to prevent accidents from occurring.
2. If you have any other pets in the house, for instance, a dog or cat, make sure they are not in the same room as the hamster while using the hamster ball to avoid dangerous confrontations.
3. You should consider using hamster balls only on the carpeted floor not on the hard flour to help slow down the pace of the ball.
4. Before getting a hamster ball put into consideration the size of the hamster in order to get the right fit for your hamster. If the hamster is way smaller than the hamster ball, the risk of their feet getting stuck in the ventilation holes will be heightened.
5. Make sure the hamster ball lid is securely closed, this will ensure that the hamster won’t fall out of the ball.
6. Keep the hamster clean after each use to wash off any trace of hamster waste.
7. If the hamster ball has been in use for an extended period, always inspect it before use to check for cracks.

Conclusion

Hamster balls are not recommended for use for various reasons mentioned in this article.

Even though it can keep your hamster stimulated and active, there is still the risk of injury or suffocation. These risks are greater than the benefits of hamsters so it is better to steer clear of this accessory.

However, if you would still prefer your hamster freedom to roam about in this without worrying about them escaping or getting lost you should put the precautionary measures to good use to reduce the risks.