Hamsters are pretty much nocturnal so it’s hard to determine when your hamster will be alert enough for exercise. Early morning and evening are your best times. However, never wake a sleeping hamster since he may lash out and bite you. Your hamster needs daily exercise to help prevent obesity. Put climbing apparatus and a hamster wheel in the cage to encourage exercise. Take your hamster out of his cage daily for playtime. Give your hamster tubes to run through, boxes to climb on or even a maze to run. A hamster ball can give your hamster lots of exercise and room to explore in safety. Watch that the ball doesn’t fall down stairs. Also check that people or other pets don’t kick the ball. Let your hamster climb over you but don’t let him fall. Keep things fun and don’t forget to take time to cuddle. Contact your Fort Collins, CO vet to learn more.