Toys

Small animals should be provided with plenty of opportunities to exercise in their cages. Most small animals will enjoy using an exercise wheel. Make sure that the wheel you use is sized to fit your pet.

Many small animals are arboreal, meaning that they frequently climb trees in nature. Satisfy the natural "climbing instinct" of these animals by putting tree branches or similar objects in their cages. Do not use tree branches from outside, since they might harbor parasites or bacteria that can harm the small animal.

Climbing rope toys offer a convenient alternative to tree branches. Aside from being fun for the animal to climb, the rope toys are often easier to keep clean than branches. Small animal ladders are also good climbing toys for smaller species such as hamsters. Some small animals will also climb on rock piles. When putting rock piles in small animal housing, make sure they are cemented in place. This will prevent rocks from falling and injuring the animal.

Rawhide, wood blocks and other sturdy chew toys will provide the small animal with hours of entertainment, and help keep his rodent incisor teeth trimmed.