1. Home
  2. Small Pet
  3. Hamster

Are Hamster Balls Safe? What to Know for Your Pet

Here’s why you may want to rethink this classic hamster toy.
Monica Weymouth
By Monica Weymouth
Updated
May 30, 2025
A hamster sits in a yellow house eating broccoli

Photo by Seattle Roll / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Hamster balls may seem like an exciting, engaging toy for your small pet, but they’re actually not all fun and games. In fact, they can be downright dangerous for your furry friend.   

“While they have historically been marketed as a way for hamsters to explore safely, many animal welfare experts and rescue organizations do not consider them safe or appropriate,” says Miranda Baker, the hamster program coordinator at Small Angels Rescue, based in Monrovia, Maryland. 

Jump to section

  • How Does a Hamster Ball Work?
  • Are Hamster Balls Safe?
  • Are Hamster Balls Ever OK?
  • What Are Other Ways for My Hamster to Exercise? 
  • FAQs About Hamster Balls

How Does a Hamster Ball Work?


Made of translucent plastic, hamster balls are hollow spheres available in a variety of sizes. When placed inside, the hamster (or other small rodent) can roll around their home or yard. 

Hamster balls let your pet exercise and spend time outside of their cage, without the danger of escaping. However, they pose some alarming risks.  

Are Hamster Balls Safe?


“Hamster balls may look like a fun way for a pet to exercise, but they come with a lot of risks and not much benefit,” says Dr. Georgina Ushi, DVM, a veterinarian in Tampa Bay, Florida. “Most hamsters find them confusing or stressful, and they can’t really control where they’re going.” 

There are quite a few reasons why a hamster ball might pose a safety risk to your pet.  

Poor Ventilation

Many hamster balls have poor ventilation, which can lead to overheating.  

Restriction of Senses

Inside the ball, hamsters can’t use their natural senses. “Hamsters have terrible eyesight. They rely heavily on their sense of smell and touch, and a plastic ball blocks both,” says Ushi.  

Paw Injuries

Even the smallest ridges, divots, or air holes in a hamster ball can be dangerous to little paws, especially when the ball is moving quickly. “Hamster paws are tiny, and it’s not uncommon for toes or feet to get trapped and injured,” says Ushi. 

Lack of Control

When in motion, a hamster ball is essentially a projectile. “Once it picks up momentum, the hamster may not be able to stop or control it,” says Ushi. “They just end up bashing into furniture and walls, becoming totally disoriented.” 

Stress and Anxiety

“Most hamsters don’t understand what’s happening in the ball. It’s not like they’re out exploring—they’re unable to control their direction or pace, without any of the sensory cues they rely on to feel safe,” says Ushi. “Instead of enrichment, hamster balls usually cause stress.” 

Are Hamster Balls Ever OK?


While you may have fond memories of your childhood hamster running around in a ball, it’s best to leave the toy in the past.  

“While they were super popular for a long time, more and more of us in the veterinary and exotic pet world are advising against them,” says Dr. Ushi.  

What Are Other Ways for My Hamster to Exercise? 


The good news? It’s easy to provide your hamster with a safe, engaging environment. 

“True enrichment involves giving animals choices and environments that mimic natural behaviors—something a hamster ball does not offer,” says Baker.  

Every hamster should have the following enrichment opportunities, Baker says: 

  • A spacious enclosure: “Hamsters are naturally active and benefit from large enclosures filled with enrichment options,” says Baker. At a minimum, she suggests 450 to 600 square inches of continuous floor space. 
  • Dig boxes or deep bedding: Add 6-plus inches of bedding material to allow your hamster room to burrow, a natural instinct.  
  • Tunnels and hamster chew toys: Tunnels and chew toys should be made of wood, cardboard, or paper. (Plastic and metal toys should be avoided, as they can cause intestinal blockages if ingested.) 
  • Foraging opportunities: Scatter food or hide treats in paper rolls to encourage your hamster to “hunt” for their food.  

Additionally, your hamster needs plenty of supervised time outside the cage, which is “so much healthier and more fun for your hamster than being stuck inside a plastic ball,” says Dr. Ushi.  

Let them free-roam in a hamster-proofed room or inside a secure small-animal playpen, making sure there are no holes or furniture they can get stuck behind, recommends Ushi. “Add a few tunnels and some scatter-fed food to create a little hamster paradise,” she suggests.  

Recommended Products

Frisco Wire Small Pet Playpen with Door, Black, 15-in, Unscented
Frisco Wire Small Pet Playpen with Door, Black, 15-in, Unscented
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
77Reviews
$22.46Chewy Price
SunGrow Rabbit & Gerbil Chew Dwarf Hamster Hideout & Play Tunnel Wooden Log, 8-in
SunGrow Rabbit & Gerbil Chew Dwarf Hamster Hideout & Play Tunnel Wooden Log, 8-in
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3
35Reviews
$6.95Chewy Price
Oxbow Animal Health Enriched Life Garden Dig Box Small Animal Toy
Oxbow Animal Health Enriched Life Garden Dig Box Small Animal Toy
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
114Reviews
$17.59Chewy Price
Frisco Oasis Small Pet Habitat
Frisco Oasis Small Pet Habitat
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
17Reviews
$299.95Chewy Price

FAQs About Hamster Balls


Q: Are hamster balls good for hamsters?  

A: Hamster balls are not recommended for hamsters or other small pets. They can cause paw injuries, collision injuries, overheating, and stress. Try other forms of enrichment and exercise, like dig boxes, wooden tunnels, and supervised time outside the cage.  

Q: What’s a good alternative to a hamster ball? 
A: Supervised time outside the cage in a playpen is a good alternative to a hamster ball. Additionally, make sure your hamster has a spacious cage, chew toys, tunnels, and foraging and burrowing opportunities.  

Attributions


This content was medically reviewed by Teresa Manucy, DVM, Chewy veterinarian.  


Monica Weymouth

Monica Weymouth

Related articles
  • Can Hamsters Eat Cheese?
    Can Hamsters Eat Cheese?

  • Hamster vs. Guinea Pig: Which Is the Best Pet for You?
    Hamster vs. Guinea Pig: Which Is the Best Pet for You?

  • Do Hamsters Hibernate?
    Do Hamsters Hibernate?

  • How Much Are Hamsters? Budgeting Tips and Cost Guide
    How Much Are Hamsters? Budgeting Tips and Cost Guide
  • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
  • 1-800-672-4399
  • United States
  • About
  • Investor Relations
  • Affiliates
  • Jobs
  • FAQs
  • Learn
  • Give Back
  • Gift Cards
  • Sell on Chewy
Download iOS appDownload Android app
Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
  • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility
  • California Supply Chains Act
  • Vendor Compliance
Download phone image
Get the Chewy app
Download iOS appDownload Android app
We're here 24/7
1-800-672-4399
United States
Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      Dog DealsNew Dog SuppliesPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      $30 eGift card with $100 order of pet faves like Solid Gold. Code: HAVEFUN. Exclusions apply.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Help support their urinary health with Royal Canin Urinary nutrition. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Farm Animal
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      Chewy Chick Days deals. Save on feed & supplies for every life stage. Shop now.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals