Do Rats Need a Wheel For Enrichment?

Rats do not necessarily need a wheel for enrichment, but a wheel is an excellent source of exercise. Even if you don’t give your rats enrichment, they will probably still use a wheel to get exercise and to kill boredom. Fortunately, wheels are not difficult to clean.

Rats can safely use a wheel, so long as you get one that’s the right size for your pet. It should be made of a sturdy material, and placed in an area where your rat can easily get on and off of it. For best results, you should purchase a wheel that’s about 12 inches wide.

Rats require a considerable amount of activity every day to stay healthy. Providing them with a running wheel can provide them with some moderate exercise, but you should also consider providing other ways to give your pets more movement and release their stress. Some sanctuaries offer alternative ways for rats to get exercise or release their energy without a wheel.

Another alternative to a wheel is a digging box. Rats love to scratch the ground and nibble on plant roots. A good place to put a digging box is in a convenient place so that the rat can clean it easily. Also, be sure to use a plastic sheet to keep the dirt off the floor.