Running wheels and freeroaming: how to keep your hedgehog or tenrec active

Small mammals are prone to obesity when their activity is restricted. Lack of movement weakens muscles, stresses joints, and reduces cardiovascular health. Mental stimulation also declines in barren environments, leading to stereotypical or destructive behaviours. Offering opportunities for physical activity is therefore not optional; it is a core part of responsible care.

Running Wheels: A Captive Essential

For hedgehogs in particular, a running wheel is one of the most important pieces of enrichment. Many tenrecs also use wheels, though with more variability between individuals.

What makes a wheel safe?

• Solid running surface: Wire or mesh wheels can trap feet or toes, causing serious injury.
• Diameter: At least 28–30 cm for hedgehogs; smaller wheels can strain the spine. For tenrecs, sizes vary, but larger is always safer.
• Quiet mechanism: A smooth, quiet wheel reduces stress for both animal and caretaker.
• Stable design: Heavy enough not to tip over, with no crossbars that could catch spines or tails.

Benefits of wheels

• Allows hedgehogs to mimic their long nightly walks.
• Provides safe, repetitive aerobic exercise.
• Reduces stress and restlessness in solitary animals.

Not every tenrec will use a wheel, but offering one gives individuals the choice.

Free Roaming: Exploration Beyond the Enclosure

While wheels provide steady exercise, free roaming adds variety and exploration. Supervised roaming in a safe, enclosed space allows hedgehogs and tenrecs to stretch their legs, sniff new scents, and engage with their environment more naturally.

Key considerations

Supervision is non-negotiable. Hedgehogs and tenrecs are small and curious, prone to squeezing into tight spaces or chewing unsafe items.

• Hazard-proofing: Remove electrical cords, toxic plants, sharp objects, and small items that can be swallowed.
• Flooring: Provide non-slippery surfaces to prevent injuries.
• Boundaries: Use a playpen, exercise pen, or block off safe areas of a room.
• Time of day: Offer roaming at night or in the evening, aligning with their natural activity cycle.

Balancing Wheels and Roaming

Both wheels and free roaming serve important but different functions:

• Wheels: consistent, daily exercise in the enclosure.
• Roaming: irregular but enriching exploration that adds variety and novelty.

For hedgehogs, a combination is best: a wheel available every night, plus regular roaming sessions. For tenrecs, roaming may be more important if the individual ignores the wheel, but enrichment should always be adapted to the animal’s preferences.

Practical Tips

• Introduce wheels early so young animals learn to use them.
• Clean wheels frequently; hedgehogs often defecate while running.
• Keep roaming sessions stress-free; start with short periods and gradually increase.
• Rotate roaming spaces and add objects (tunnels, boxes, safe plants) for added interest.

In Summary

Hedgehogs and tenrecs are far more active than their small size suggests. Running wheels provide essential daily exercise, while free roaming adds exploration and enrichment. Together, they prevent obesity, support physical fitness, and create more natural, stimulating lives for these unique animals in captivity.