Exercise Wheels

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Mother Hubbard

Mother Hubbard

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Hi there, my girls will be excited to get into their much bigger home by the end of the week. But question is, does anyone use large exercise wheels? When I kept hamsters, it was an absolute must, but being a novice cavy keeper I've no idea. Anyone else use one before I part with my cash? To be fair they could do with the exercise, especially as we call one of them "Big Bum Bloss". Answers on a snowy postcard
 
No, I don't think the piggies would like them and also I'm pretty sure it's bad for the spine, also please don't get the piggies an exercise ball these are bad too :)!

Btw most piggies are fat! :))
 
When I did my diploma in animal care, we were always taught that any rodent wheels and balls are a big no-no. Sciencists said that they were only used when stressed or by using them, the animal would become stressed. Its like when you see the tigers pacing at the zoo...not a good thing.

However, knowing Scientists, they have probably changed that conclusion now!
 
BIG NO NO!

Unlike in G-Force or with hamsters, guinea pigs do NOT have very flexible spines and should NOT use wheels or leads. Both can lead to severe spinal injuries! Piggies are ground animals and not climbers. They need ground space to run in, which is why most piggies are having a removable run (indoors at this time of the year) in addition to their cage for exercise and to break the boredom.
 
PERFECT.

So glad I asked. The forum is great for info and I'm quickly becoming addicted to reading everything. I shall definately not be doing a wheel. In fact, it's clear they are taking over the house. Thanks so much for the advice, sorry for keep asking daft questions.
 
lil said:
PERFECT.

So glad I asked. The forum is great for info and I'm quickly becoming addicted to reading everything. I shall definately not be doing a wheel. In fact, it's clear they are taking over the house. Thanks so much for the advice, sorry for keep asking daft questions.
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WE'd rather you asked too many questions than went to the shops and bought a wheel or a lead! It's amazing how much unsuitable stuff is being sold in pet shops!
 
I think it's good you asked! We are many people here on the forum who learn from more experienced piggy keepers and share whatever little we know ourselves so far :)
 
I'm sure people won't think it's daft, its better to ask loads of questions so you can learn. When I first got my piggies I had LOADS of questions it's the only way to find out, people on here are helpful and frindly so they don't mind.

By the way, you often get those harness and leads sold for guinea pigs, they are a BIG no no too :)
 
We like questions. There's no such thing as a silly question, if you don't know the answer. :)

I learnt heaps about rabbits from the Rabbits United Forum when I was a newbie owner this time last year.
 
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