The best hamster toys are a must when welcoming a furry little friend into your home. Just as a cat or dog needs plenty of physical and mental stimulation so does a hamster. They need plenty of enrichment to thrive in their daily lives.
Knowing how to play with a hamster is very important, as hamsters are quite clever and love spending time with their humans. We wanted to know what to look out for in a toy so we spoke to vet, Dr. Hannah Godfrey and she notes that it’s important to choose toys that allow hamsters to practice natural behaviors, such as digging, foraging, chewing, and hiding.
You also want to make sure that your hamster has plenty of space to play. Investing in one of the best hamster cages will ensure that there is enough space for your hamster to play, eat, and sleep. Consider adding things like an exercise wheel and space for your hamster to climb or burrow so having enough space but again, you’ll want to be sure there is enough space in their cage for this.
Keeping all this in mind, we’ve rounded up our top picks of the best hamster toys we know you and your hamster will love. Let’s check them out!
Best hamster toys 2024
Best overall hamster toy
This bridge is sure to bring out the adventurer in your hamster. It includes a rope ladder, a hoop with a rope ring, and a suspension bridge, which easily hangs from the top bars of the cage. It even includes monkey bars to really give your tiny pet a big workout.
Reasons to buy: Multiple types of equipment to prevent boredom and support natural behaviors.
Reasons not to buy: It is better suited to larger cages as the apparatus can take up a bit of space.
Best budget hamster toy
This versatile tube is sure to be your hamster’s favorite toy. They can chew it, hide, or roll around in it, and the price point is the best thing. It is made of non-toxic materials while staying at an affordable price point for pet owners.
Reasons to buy: An affordable product that can be used for multiple purposes.
Reasons not to buy: The gap through the tunnel may not be suitable for larger hamsters.
Best cozy hamster hideaway
A snuggly and cozy place for your hamster to hideaway in, this coconut hut is the perfect little nook. It’s made from coconut shell and is all-natural and non-toxic. This little spot will offer your hamster a place to rest and hide away when they need some time to rest.
Reasons to buy: Made from 100% all-natural materials and is non-toxic.
Reasons not to buy: Can be hard to clean the inside if your hamster decides to use the bathroom in it.
Best hamster wheel
No more annoying squeaky wheels, you won’t even hear your hamster on this wheel. The name says it all, it’s super quiet and has been designed with a dual ball bearing. It also comes in a range of colors and three different sizes.
Reasons to buy: A very quiet wheel that won't bother you while your hamster works up a sweat.
Reasons not to buy: Is pricier than other hamster wheels.
Best eco hamster toy
If you are on the hunt for an eco-friendly toy to add to your hamster’s collection then look no further. This ball is compostable and made from natural willow to allow your hamster to gnaw and chew until their heart’s content.
Reasons to buy: Made from all-natural materials to promote dental health.
Reasons not to buy: It can be too big for smaller hamsters to push around.
Best hamster toy for exercise
A true gem for hamsters, this exercise wheel is sure to help them stay in shape. With a flat surface it’s perfect for running and protects the hamsters spine. It is also slip resistant, so you don’t need to worry about your hamster falling off.
Reasons to buy: This wheel is designed to protect hamster's spine while they run.
Reasons not to buy: As it's made of plastic, it may be not be ideal for eco-conscious pet parents.
Best for dental hygiene
These tasty sticks will not only keep your hamster busy but also give their chompers a good workout. They are made from natural apple branches and are perfect for keeping their teeth in good shape.
Reasons to buy: They are a great size for small pets and are long-lasting.
Reasons not to buy: Sticks can break into smaller pieces which could be choking hazards.
How to choose the best hamster toys
“Hamster toys are a great way to keep your hamster entertained, active, and healthy, while also giving them opportunities to display their natural behaviors – like digging, chewing, foraging, and hiding,” says Dr. Hannah Godfrey.
When it comes to choosing the best hamster toys, keep in mind your hamster’s personality, interests, and needs. Maybe your hamster needs more exercise, so toys like wheels or saucers will be the way to go. Or if your hamster needs more mental stimulation you may want to choose a ball. If you’re looking to improve your hamster’s dental health, then a fun dental chew will be the pick for you.
Dr. Godfrey also says, “Don’t forget, you can create your own fun and effective hamster toys with empty toilet rolls and other household items – just make sure they’re safe to chew and don’t get sharp.” You can check out these DIY hamster toys for inspiration.
What types of hamster toys are there?
If you're wondering how to set up a hamster cage, then you'll want to know about all the different types of toys and additions that can be added to your hamster's home.
Hamster wheel: Possibly the most common type of hamster toy out there, and is the perfect addition to one of the best hamster cages. It's a great way to provide exercise for your little critter but it also emulates their natural behavior in the wild. Hamsters will walk several miles in search of food.
Hamster chew toys: Like most small animals, hamsters love to use their teeth so it's important to nurture their natural instincts. When buying a chew toy for your hamster, the most important consideration is that it's made with non-toxic materials. Wood can be a great choice but ensure it's pesticide and chemical-free.
Hamster balls: A hamster ball is an exercise device that allows your furry friend to roll around the floor. It's often seen as a common toy for a hamster but it's not always regarded as the best choice by pet charities. There are concerns that a hamster ball may actually cause stress to a hamster due to their eyesight being poor.
Climbing toys for hamsters: Hamsters enjoy climbing and are rather curious creatures. Look to provide opportunities for your furry friend to explore. Good option are large tunnels that imitate their natural environment in the wild and you may opt for bendy bridges instead.
Digging opportunities: Hamsters love to dig so look to provide a deep layer of sawdust at the bottom of their cage. Providing potting compost is a great option too and you can always consider a digging tower.
Hannah graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011 and began work straight away at a busy mixed practice. Initially, she treated all species, but focussed on small animals from 2014. She has a passion for soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, and canine and feline dentistry, having completed additional training in these areas.
She then began working at a smaller, independent practice close to home, in order to devote more time to her other love – writing comedy fiction. In February 2023, she moved from permanent clinical vet work to become an Editor for a global medical communications company. She hasn't given up clinical work altogether, though, and still does regular locum shifts at her local vet practices.
