11" hamster wheel - okay as a toy?

[Hypnotoad72]

11" in diameter; it's pretty big.

I have two similar, 4.5", hamster wheel in my parrotlets' cage and they adore the things.

Do I sound crazy, or do you think that's not a half-bad idea for the conures?

Thx!

[Icednova625]

I'd say its probably not a good idea. It looks painted, which I'm sure isn't bird safe paint. Also if they get the paint to chip, The metal may contain zink and other harmful metals.

[Icednova625]

If you could find a plastic one that might work out.

[Hypnotoad72]

Petco did have a plastic model; it hinges on the side of the cage but is fairly enclosed.

I've seen plastic wheels on youtube clips; I will check harder.

Thanks y'all for the information. I will return those wheels asap.

[Hypnotoad72]

Originally Posted by Hypnotoad72

Petco did have a plastic model; it hinges on the side of the cage but is fairly enclosed.

I've seen plastic wheels on youtube clips; I will check harder.

Thanks y'all for the information. I will return those wheels asap.

Addendum, they claim this:

PETCO Mesh Wheels help to promote health and wellness in your pet keeping them fit for a long healthy life. Our long lasting durable mesh wheel is made of non-toxic pet safe materials and colors assuring your pet will have hours of safe fun and exercise. Easy to clean set up and use. Simply hook onto the side of your habitat or place firmly on the base. Assorted colors, allow us to select for you.

Unfortunately they do not say anything direct such as "no zinc or lead", et al...

[DarwinTheSun]

I would trust that they are "pet safe" referring to hamsters or gerbils, and not birds.

The first concern I had was that it would destroy a tail!

[dancelady]

I have a hamster wheel, but it is plastic and very nice because it is easy to clean, has a good size (around 8"), and it moves well. It is much better than the mesh ones, and my lovebirds love to play with it. It is solid, hinged on the back, and has a good stand to keep it upright, if you don't put it on the side of the cage. Most places have it, and this is the one you should get. I did not get the mesh because the way they are made, I felt it could hurt a bird if it started to come apart.

[kellywess]

What if they got their little toes stuck in it or their beak and it started to spin and they panicked.... not good. I would say they are not safe. I also agree about the paint and the plastic used to make them, those too could be unsafe.

[dranger1108]

as a sugar glider owner we don't use them because the cross bars cause injury. Tails, feet, and possibly necks get broken.

[kali]

i i too worry about the toes gettign caught in the mesh. they aren't recommended for rats or mice either bcoz tails get caught in those types of wheels.