Are Wheels Good For Rats?

Rats like to run and are often interested in using exercise wheels. This provides physical activity for rats and is great for keeping them healthy. However, not all wheels are safe for rats, and they should not be used in a confined environment. Some are made of bars, which are dangerous for rats’ spines and tails.

Mesh wheels are a good choice because they are not designed with spaces that can easily snag a rat’s feet. This prevents accidents from occurring, and helps keep your rat healthy. The disadvantages of mesh wheels are that they’re not as comfortable for rats to walk on, and they may get hurt. Additionally, some rats like to hang from the mesh wheels and spin around.

Another drawback to wheels is that they cause irreversible deformity in rats. This reshapes their tails and spine muscles. This can affect a rat’s sense of balance, which is why some people avoid wheels for their pets. Some people believe this deformity is genetic, and that a rat can’t grow out of a wheel tail.

A good rat wheel should be large enough to provide enough exercise. A 12-inch ferris-style wheel will be suitable for dwarf rats, while a 15-inch wheel is perfect for large rats. The wheel should also be easy to clean and have a solid surface.