Leopard Geckos + Hamster Wheel ?

[DMCO]

Well I got a strange idea last night while handling my Leo...I noticed how he likes to run and walk all around everywhere and I got to thinking, would he use a wire hamster wheel if I bought one for him? It would have to have closer spacing between each wire on the wheel, but do you think that he would use it?


I've never heard of anyone doing something such as this, so maybe I should give it a shot.

[Brian]

It would probably be bad for his back and I don't think its a good idea for other reasons as well.

[IndyCrestie]

I definitely would *not* use a wire hamster wheel. I'm not sure a wheel is a good idea in the first place, but if you want to try it get a solid floored one, like this one.

http://www.petco.com/Shop/Product.aspx?R=9438&Nav=1&N=0&Ntt=hamster+wheel&sku=932671&familyID=13627&

I don't forsee this being a good idea though...JMHO

[Silly-atus]

I know of one leopard gecko who has a wheel. He doesn't use it every day, maybe two or three times a week, but it does get used. He'll run like a bat out of h3ll on it for a few minutes, rest, poop, drink, and go back for a few more minutes. It might be coincidence, but this leo is in great physical shape. He does get good care, so maybe it's nothing to do with the wheel, who knows? It's also not my leo, but an acquaintance of mine.

I'd say that as long as the wheel is a big enough diameter that the gecko doesn't have to bend too far backwards, it should be fine. If he's got the option to use or ignore it, then let hime decide. Reptiles are pretty good at avoiding things that cause pain, so I wouldn't worry all that much if he does use it.