Hamster balls can create unneeded stress and anxiety for your furry friend. If not used right, hamster balls can present physical dangers to your small friend. Many veterinarians and animal rights activists have criticized hamster balls. [1] X Research source
Make sure the hamster ball is big enough for your little friend. There are a number of varieties of hamsters (most popularly, dwarf and Syrian), so make sure that whatever ball you’ll be buying will be big enough for your hamster when he or she reaches maturity. Choose a color. Hamster balls come in a wide variety of different colors. Try to avoid dark colors, so that you’ll be able to see your hamster clearly at all times. Make sure your hamster ball has plenty of holes in it for ventilation. While most commercially produced hamster balls do have plenty of ventilation, you should still be cognizant of this when purchasing your ball. Avoid using “homemade” or “custom” hamster balls unless the builder/designer has a lot of experience. Homemade balls might be dangerous – they could open up unexpectedly or lack enough ventilation for your furry friend.
Hamsters are sensitive to sunlight. Hamsters who play in their ball in the sunlight might tend to overheat or dehydrate. Limit your hamsters to indoors or at the very least to extremely overcast (but not freezing) days outside.
Take your hamster out when he or she is tired. Begin with no more than 15 minutes. If your hamster seems to handle it well, after 3 or 4 times, you can gradually increase the amount of time your hamster plays in the ball. Just make sure to monitor and use your best care and judgement. If your hamster seems lethargic after playing in the ball, and does not recover quickly, consult your veterinarian. [2] X Research source
The hamsters could get into a fight. One hamster might not be as fit as the other, and could be thrown around as his or her friend is moving the ball. The hamsters could become extremely stressed or anxious because of the confined space.
Close off any area that your hamster is playing in. Dogs or cats might see your hamster as a toy and try to rip its stuffing out. Larger pets might be confused and might not understand what the hamster and his or her ball is doing. If you do have two hamsters in two separate balls, it is okay to let them play in the same area. Just make sure to monitor them so they don’t run into each other or hurt themselves. [4] X Research source
Clean the hamster ball after every use, if possible. Clean the hamster ball at least every couple of uses, no matter what. Clean the hamster ball immediately if your hamster has had an accident in it. [5] X Research source
Choosing a time when your hamster is active. Don’t choose a time directly before or directly after feeding. Once you’ve used the ball a few times, it should be easier to figure out when your hamster wants to play in his or her ball.
Some hamster balls are separated into two sides, and you’ll twist one side off the other to open it. Some hamster balls have a small circular opening on one side of the sphere. You’ll have to twist the door of the ball open to let your hamster in. If your hamster ball is designed differently, consult your instructions.
Open the ball and direct your hamster toward the opening. You can guide him or her, but don’t throw them in against their own will. Try putting a treat in to lure your hamster in. If your hamster goes for the treat, slowly close the ball and allow your hamster to eat the treat before anything else. If your hamster is still reluctant, place the ball inside his or her cage to allow him or her to get used to the ball. Just make sure to watch them, as they might hurt themselves playing in a ball that is not secured. [6] X Research source
Apply the tape smoothly to the crack that separates the two sides of the sphere (or on the entrance to the ball). Make sure that the pieces of tape are not available inside of the sphere. You don’t want your little friend chewing on or swallowing the tape. Make sure your ball is dry when applying tape. [7] X Research source
Sitting on the floor with your hamster when he or she is in the ball. Closing off an area, like a living room or bedroom so that your hamster won’t be able to leave your site. Make sure that your hamster won’t be able to access any stairs or similar hazards while in his or her ball. Never let your hamster roam around unattended – in or out of a ball.
