Using a ball on a stand as a permanent wheel

[HannahE]

Hello, so I’ve had my Syrian hamster a month and her flying saucer wheel won’t stop falling off the stand, I’m unsure if it’s because of how fast she runs and maybe has broke it but as a back up as she got very stressed and was running and jumping about like crazy I put my ball in there which comes with a stand and I can make it easy access for her. It seems to be more quiet and she enjoys it so far? Will it cause her any problems or can I use it as permanent thing if not I’ll get a new wheel ASAP.

[Pebbles82]

It isn't suitable as a permanent thing. They do need an upright wheel to run properly. Flying saucers are also best just as an additional wheel rather than a main wheel. Was the flying saucer big enough? Syrians need the largest 12" size flying saucer or they just can't run properly on the smaller ones and end up running with their body curved, which isn't good for them.

For an upright wheel 11" diameter is fine, so they can run with a straight back. The ball is probably too small as well unless it's a rat sized ball.

Which country are you in? The 12" silent runner is a very good wheel (and silent). If it will fit in your cage (it's 35cm tall on its stand).

[AmityvilleHams]

Absolutely not. Balls are dangerous even on stands - those "ventilation holes" are a serious hazard for injuries and they also don't allow enough ventilation so you have an increased risk of respiratory health issues.

Flying saucers really aren't good wheels anyways. For Syrians, even the 12 inch isn't big enough. They don't have the same running surface size as upright wheels, they don't allow for a proper running position regardless of size, and as an added drawback they take up incredibly useful floor space that would be much better for extra enrichment!

I would also strongly recommend the 12" Silent Runner wheel (not Silent Spinner - those are very low quality wheels with inherent safety flaws present in any wheel of that make or similar designs and often don't spin or if they do spin when you get them they don't permanently spin, along with never remaining silent if you're even lucky enough to get one that is initially silent).

Another alternative would be a 12 inch Comfort Wheel, which despite not being silent is still functional and has a fairly safe design. You'll find mixed reviews on how loud they are, but the main point is that they are a perfectly suitable option if that's what you're able to get.

[Ria P]

I'd get an upright, species appropriate wheel asap. I don't really understand why you improvise with a flying saucer and hamster ball on a stand for something that is a hamster essential.
I'd also ditch the ball, they aren't safe or beneficial to a hamster.
Your hamster will be delighted with a proper wheel and run miles on it. What's her name?

[HannahE]

I think my flying saucer was too small that was recommend at the pet shop. I’m a beginner with hamsters as before I had guinea pigs which are completely different. I live in the uk so unsure if I’m able to silent runner. Could someone send me a link to a decent one. Or is there a safe one to use from pets at home that I can get as that way I get it sooner. I did think the ball on the stand might not be safe but I panicked as she got so stressed without her wheel as she’s only 9 weeks old. Her name is Zelda. Thank you for your replies

[HannahE]

I’m also only just learning that most pet shops don’t actually know how to look after hamsters properly or sell safe products for them. I really don’t want to cause my hamster any harm.

[HannahE]

https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/p...nt-rolly-wheel

Is this one safe as I could pick it up tomorrow

[AmityvilleHams]

I can't say for sure that that particular wheel would work, but long term it definitely wouldn't be your best choice. You really should get a 12 inch wheel, as that size can actually work for all Syrians and not just the smaller ones like the wheel size you've linked.

As far as where to get a Silent Runner or 12 inch Comfort Wheel in the UK, I'm sure others will have a better idea on those than I do.

[HannahE]

I’ve tried looking and I can’t seem to find one that’s less than £30 and that’s without delivery which is so expensive. I’m so confused on why pet shops don’t sell wheels that are safe for hamsters. Would make thing so much easier! But okay I’ll get a 12” rather than wasting money or causing my hamster problems. I hope someone knows where is best to get one in the uk. How long do you think the large ball on the stand will be ok for, I don’t want her getting hurt but she went crazy without a wheel of some sort in there. I appreciate your help!

[HannahE]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/174020515635
So this one is just over 12inch no gaps. Does anyone recommend