Russian tortoise hamster wheel?

[JsTortoise]

Recently, I saw a post about a tortoise enjoying a hamster wheel that it could walk on. I was wondering if it is actually safe for my tortoise if I got one, and if there are any recommendations for wheels or any warnings about this? I don’t see much information on this. I have a Russian tortoise.

 

[wellington]

I wouldn't recommend it, but yes, we do have at least one member that uses one. I don't remember who it is.
Do not get a wire one but the kind that the stand is hooked on the back of the wheel and the wheel is more like a solid plastic.
Having the proper sized enclosure is better, at least a 4x8 foot or bigger if you can and an indoor and outdoor enclosure. However, if you can't, the wheel may be of some use for exercise.

 

[Twig]

Twig is just a 57g baby western Hermann's tortoise but he absolutely loves his chinchilla wheel and uses it nearly every day, sometimes for hours.

 

[wellington]

Twig is just a 57g baby western Hermann's tortoise but he absolutely loves his chinchilla wheel and uses it nearly every day, sometimes for hours.

Did it come like that or did you line the inside with something?

 

[Twig]

It came with the cork lining. And I made cork stairs for access.

Did it come like that or did you line the inside with something?

 

[SinLA]

Tiny Speed Racer (https://www.instagram.com/tiny_speed_racer/) is a member on this forum. This is their IG and they use a wheel, and the tortoise seems to really like it. I cannot fathom mine using it (and my setup doesn't really allow it) but if they like it, and you can make it safe...

 

[The_Four_Toed_Edward]

I have found looking at other people that the bigger the wheel the better, so maybe one made for chinchillas or hedgehogs would be best. Safety concerns are related to mounting the wheel and how the tortoise can access the wheel.

Of course the wheel won't replace a proper sized enclosure.

 

[_The_Beast_]

Tiny Speed Racer (https://www.instagram.com/tiny_speed_racer/) is a member on this forum. This is their IG and they use a wheel, and the tortoise seems to really like it. I cannot fathom mine using it (and my setup doesn't really allow it) but if they like it, and you can make it safe...

Me! This is my tort's Instagram account. I think it's a fantastic source of enrichment and my hatchling uses it every day. They have an appropriately sized indoor vivarium and aren't hurting for space, so if you're ticking those boxes already then a wheel can make a great addition. Just make sure it's as big as can be and avoid metal ones or plastic ones that are way too small. There shouldn't be anything their nails can catch on (no gaps). I currently have the large NiteAngel that comes with a cork lining which gives them great grip/ensures there's no slipping.

Please note that a wheel does not and should not mean you can get away with a smaller enclosure. It is not a substitute for having enough space to roam. I think it can be great additional enrichment Although consider yourself warned: it will be regularly pooped on

 

[Wilbur1111]

PXL_20250710_155712334.TS.mp4

drive.google.com

Boris loves it...husband lined with nonabrasive no slip tape , tape that can be used in bathtub or places you dont want to slip.

 

[Wilbur1111]

He uses it every day, husband made out of huge planter rim. See my other posts I probably am one who mentioned it. When you live in the midwest where temps get cold having a wheel is great for winter, but he uses it every day.

 

[Daffodil]

Does he seem to actually like the wheel? I've wondered if they just get on the wheel and can't figure out how to get off.

Could just be that I can see mine getting stuck on one. He doesn't seem particularly bright.

 

[_The_Beast_]

Does he seem to actually like the wheel? I've wondered if they just get on the wheel and can't figure out how to get off.

Could just be that I can see mine getting stuck on one. He doesn't seem particularly bright.

Walter loves his and uses it a ton. It's important to make sure the wheel is low enough for them to get on and off easily. I do this by adjusting the height of the wheel (Walter's wheel is height adjustable) and using rocks to make it easy for him to get on and off.

You can see the set-up I use here:

View this content on Instagram

View this content on Instagram

 

[RainsOn]

I just got one for Digger. All the advice here is great. Thanks loads.

 

[Kittynipsuzy]

Wheel Advice for a new owner.
I purchased a Chin-Sprint wheel which seems big enough but it is made of slippery metal. I'd like to add something to the inside and was wondering if the sandpaper strips sold by the company are a good idea? Or should I try to find cork to line it? All opinions welcomed!