Safety Tips for Letting Your Pocket Pet Use a Runabout

Do you have a hamster or Guinea pig? Exercise balls, or runabouts, are becoming very popular accessories for pocket pets. Runabouts can be both fun and entertaining for tiny furballs, but they can also be very dangerous if used improperly. A Fort Collins, CO vet offers some tips on getting your furry pal a runabout or exercise ball in this article.

Runabouts are definitely not one-size-fits-all. Your little buddy could be seriously hurt in a wheel that is the wrong size! Do your research, and be sure to choose the correct size. We also recommend checking product reviews and safety ratings before making a purchase. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Stairs can be extremely dangerous, and even fatal, to pets in exercise balls. Don’t let your furry friend roll around near stairs, and never put him on a tabletop.

Never leave your four-legged pal in a runabout unattended. Your cute pet could get stuck in a corner, or trapped underneath something. This can be both scary and dangerous for the little furball!

Even small animals have their own likes and dislikes. Some of these little guys really enjoy runabouts, while others find being in a rolling plastic ball very scary. Never force your pet to use a runabout. If your pint-sized buddy seems frightened, offer him another type of toy instead.

Before letting your tiny pet roll around, make sure his exercise ball is closed securely. If in doubt, use tape to hold it shut.

Your pocket pet may soil his runabout while he’s using it. Clean the exercise ball after each use, and let it dry completely before letting him use it again.

Even if your adorable pet loves being in his runabout, you want to be careful not to leave him inside it for too long. About 15 minutes is plenty. It’s better to give your four-legged friend several short sessions than one long one.

Keep Fido and Fluffy in another part of the house when your pocket pet is in his runabout. Your miniature furball could be seriously hurt by a playful dog or cat!

Please feel free to contact us, your local Fort Collins, CO animal clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are always here to help!