[Pygmypuff]

Hi there!

Whether you think hamster balls are bad or not is totally a matter of opinion and there is a lot of conflict in the hamster community as to whether they should be used or not.

Personally, I don't like them, as your hamster can't use it's natural sense of smell to suss things out around them, as well as the fact they can't get to any water if they need to drink.

However, they can be a good thing to use if you have cats or dogs or ferrets, as you can ensure their safety. Saying this though, you shouldn't let your pet chase your hamster or be in the same room as your hamster even if they are in the ball, because this will stress and upset the hamster.

Overall I would say it is better just to give them some enriching playtime outside the cage but not in a ball (maybe in the bathtub if you have one, or just on the floor in a hamster proof room) where they can smell and familiarize themselves with the surroundings!