New hamster owner...using a hamster ball

[CourtCourt]

I just got my first hamster yesterday.she's already sleeping on my shoulder for an hour straight.she's very friendly. I bought her a hamster ball, but she just sits in it.any advice to show her how to use it?

[souffle]

Welcome to the forum. Looking forward to meeting your hammy

[Wexland]

Hi and welcome. My hamsters just knew what to do in a ball. It is a clear one or coloured? Soeone gave me a pink one but they both definitely prefer clear, I am guessing they can see a bit more.

[Stockannette]

Someone gave our Flower a small hamster ball and she would just sit it in, looking cozy. We later got her a big one (clear)... I think SuperPet calls it "mega"... and she started wandering around the house in it immediately. She must have felt like she has "room" to run in it.

Congrats, and welcome!

[m00nbeam]

Welcome love to see some pics xx it might b because the ball is too small ( post a PIC and we will tell u ) or some hams just don't like it what's your hams name ?

[alyzimm]

Hehe, that's wonderful Sounds like the hamster and you are a great match!

Sometimes if I put a hamster in a ball for the first time, I help the hamster figure out what to do by gently and slowly rolling the ball in whatever direction they are facing. They typically begin to walk, and I'll keep going for as long as they keep walking. Then we'll stop for a short break and try again. Eventually they get the hang of it and start rolling off on their own.

I've also noticed that adult hamsters tend to catch on more quickly if they've had some experience running on a wheel.

Another excellent point is a clear wheel will let them see a little of where they are going, though they'll likely still bump into things.

Just some little things to note about using a ball... Make sure any staircases are blocked off! A rolled up towel infront of the staircase should do the trick, but sometimes strong hamsters can even get over this! Also, 15-20 minutes should be the maximum stretch of time for a hamster to be in a ball without a break. It's good to put them back in their cage and let them drink, eat, go to the bathroom, etc. Then if they really want to go in the ball again they can.

Best wishes as you and your hamster learn together!

[Colby and the Dwarfs]

I put all my babies in balls before they leave to their new homes(just to prepare them) and it's hilarious, they're all different. Some run, some jog, some sleep. It varies! But I agree with the others about the ball. It just takes practice!

[CourtCourt]

It's a clear ball but I had gotten a smaller one since she's little. My avatars is of her in the ball.also, her name is Daisy ^.^