Exercise is important for humans just as it is for your kitty, especially if they’re exclusively indoor cats.
The last thing you want is for your cat to become obese or overweight!
One way to encourage your feline friend to get more exercise is through the use of a cat exercise wheel. These devices are specifically designed to help keep them physically fit and entertained when bored.
That being said, is a cat exercise wheel worth it and how do you choose the perfect one for your kitty? Don’t stress-we’re here with all the answers.
Below, we’ll take a look at some of the best-rated options on the market to help you decide if a cat exercise wheel is right for your feline friend.
So sit back, relax, and let’s get started!
Pros and cons of using a cat exercise wheel
First, let’s examine the benefits and drawbacks of a cat exercise wheel.
Pros of owning a cat exercise wheel
Provides a way for your cat to get exercise indoors
Cat exercise wheels allow cats to run and play, simulating the natural hunting and chasing behavior that they would engage in outdoors. This can help prevent obesity and other health problems.
Provides mental stimulation
Cats are naturally curious animals, and they’ll likely enjoy the challenge of navigating the wheel and getting their “rewards” (treats or other forms of praise) for doing so.
Helps reduce boredom
If your cat spends a lot of time alone while you’re at work or out running errands, a cat exercise wheel can provide an engaging and stimulating activity to keep them occupied.
Can help prevent weight gain
Exercise wheels can also help cats maintain a healthy weight, as obesity is a common health issue for indoor cats.
Cons of owning a cat exercise wheel
Cost
Cat exercise wheels are fairly expensive, especially if you opt for a high-quality model.
Space
While some models are compact and can fit in a small area, others may take up a significant amount of space in your home.
Some cats may not be interested in using the cat wheel
Not all cats will be interested in using a cat exercise wheel. Some may prefer other forms of play or may not be attracted to the device.
Risk and safety factors
Additionally, some cats may be afraid of the moving parts of the wheel and injure themselves.
If you’re considering purchasing a cat exercise wheel, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian to see if it’s the right thing for your cat.
Our Top Cat Wheel Picks
Here are our recommended picks of the 5 best cat exercise wheels in 2023!
1. Best overall: The One Fast Cat Exercise Wheel
Summary: Its sturdy base, comfortable running surface, and generous size make it the perfect choice for keeping your feline friend active and healthy.
The One Fast Cat Exercise Wheel is highly rated and very popular among cat parents.
One of its benefits is its size. This wheel has larger dimensions than most other exercise wheels and can accommodate cats weighing as much as 25 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of cat sizes and breeds!
This means your large feline friend will have enough space to stretch their legs and get a good workout without feeling cramped.
What’s more?
It has a smooth, non-slip surface that is easy on your cat’s paws, and the wheel is designed to be sturdy and stable, so you can be confident that your cat will be safe while using it.
Pros
· Supports cats up to 25 lbs
· Has many positive reviews
· Lightweight
Cons
· Some find it difficult to assemble
Key specs
· Recommended for: cats of all sizes and breeds
· Weight: 25lbs
· Material: recycled Plastic, EVA foam
· Assembled Dimensions: 48″ H x 47″ W
· Assembly Required: yes
2. Best value: Penn-Plax Spin Kitty Cat Exercise Wheel
Summary: A relatively affordable and effective way to provide your cat with some exercise and scratching opportunities.
The Penn-Plax Spin Kitty Cat Exercise Wheel is a great option for cat owners looking for a more affordable way to provide their feline friends with some exercise. It is the most affordable wheel on this list.
This wheel stands out for its dual functionality as a cat scratcher thanks to the sisal carpet lining on both the inside and outside. This not only provides a secure grip for running but also gives your cat a place to scratch, helping to keep its claws in good condition.
Even better, assembly is easy, the wheel is relatively quiet when in use, and its simple design won’t clash with your home décor.
It is recommended for pets under 15 pounds, as some users have reported that larger cats may not fit comfortably in the wheel.
On the downside, it is not suitable for extra-large cats, and the carpeted parts cannot be replaced once they have been thoroughly scratched up by your feline friend.
Pros
· Gives cats room to roam and scratch
· Easy to assemble
· Affordable
Cons
· Larger cats may not fit
· Sisal carpeting cannot be replaced
Key specs
· Recommended for cats not more than 15 pounds
· Key features: Exercise Wheel, Scratcher
· Material: Wood and Sisal
· Assembled Dimensions: 23.62 x 12.99 x 35.83 inches
· Weight: 20 pounds
· Assembly Required: yes
3. Best premium: Happy & Polly Paws and Fish Cat Wheel
Summary: A stylish and convenient wheel that also serves as a scratching post.
The Paws and Fish Cat Wheel is our premium pick for the best exercise wheel for cats!
One of our favorite things about this cat wheel is its convenience – it doesn’t need to be installed and can be used right out of the box! This makes it highly convenient for cat owners who don’t have the time or inclination to set up complicated pieces of equipment.
In addition to being a treadmill for your cat, the wheel also doubles as a scratching post!
The wheel is available in two sizes – medium and large – to accommodate cats of different sizes and weights.
Based on design, Paws and Fish Cat Wheel is a winner! It is available in two color options and looks cute enough for a purrfect Instagram content.
The only potential downside is the price, which may be a deterrent for some buyers on a budget.
Pros
· Serves as a cat scratcher and exercise wheel
· Does not need to be installed
· Available in two sizes and color options
· Super cute
Cons
· Pricey
Key spec
- Recommended for: Average to large-sized cats
- Key features: Exercise Wheel, Scratcher
- Dimension: Medium: 37.0 x 15.0 x 40.6; Large: 39.4 16.5 47.2
- Weight: ≤13 lbs; ≤15 lbs
- Assembly Required: no
4. Best for small kitties: PawHut Round Hamster Cat Exercise Wheel
Summary: a convenient and space-saving option for small cat owners.
With a recommended weight limit of 9 lbs, the PawHut Round Hamster Cat Exercise Wheel is a fantastic choice for your smaller feline companions to get their daily exercise.
The sisal rope covering on the wheel allows cats to scratch and sharpen their claws as they run, and the small, compact design means it won’t take up too much space in your home.
Additionally, the wheel is easy to clean and assemble, making it convenient for busy cat owners.
The Round Hamster is also relatively affordable and has a beautiful wooden finish. We also like that the wooden parts are sanded and rounded to prevent any accidents for your cat.
One potential drawback to consider is that this exercise wheel is best suited to smaller cats.
Pros
- Easy to clean and assemble
- Cats can scratch and sharpen their claws as they run
- Quite affordable
- Great for small living spaces
Cons
- Too small for large cats
Key specs
- Recommended: Cats less than 9 lbs
- Material: Wood, Sisal, Pile Carpet
- Dimensions: 29.5 x 13 x 36.5 (LWH)
- Bottom Frame Size: 23.5 x 13 x 6 (LWH)
- Assembly Required: Yes
5. Best cat tree: Penn-Plax Spin Kitty Cat Tree with Built-in Wheel
Summary: Its combination of a cat tree and exercise wheel, as well as its many convenient features, make it a top pick for feline enthusiasts.
The Penn-Plax Spin Kitty Cat Exerciser Wheel & Tree has a unique two-in-one design that combines a cat tree with an exercise wheel, allowing your feline friend to play, scratch, and exercise all in one place.
The heavy-duty wood construction provides a stable climbing frame for your cat to relax on, and a 20-inch exercise wheel is lined with durable Sisal carpet, which provides extra grip and helps prevent slips and falls.
This two-tiered design cat tree also comes with several features including 3 removable soft resting pads, scratching posts, and a small enclosed kitty house for your cat to hide and relax in.
What then is the drawback?
Well, the Kitty Cat Exerciser Wheel & Tree is only designed for cats who weigh less than 15 pounds.
A few buyers have also mentioned that the wheel wobbles when it spins, which may be a concern for some pet owners.
Pros
- 2-in-1 cat tree and exercise wheel
- 3 soft resting pads
- Scratching posts
- Kitty House
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Will only comfortably fit kittens or medium/small breed adults
- The wheel may wobble when it spins
Key specs
- Recommended: kittens or medium-breed cats
- Key feature: 2 in 1 cat tree and exercise wheel
- Material: Wood, Sisal
- Dimensions: 31.5 x 15.75 x 35.04 inches
- Pounds Weight Capacity: 15 lbs
- Assembly Required: Yes
Buying the Best Cat Exercise Wheel for Your Cat: Things to Look For
If you’re considering buying a cat exercise wheel for your feline friend, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
Size of wheel and cat
First, you’ll want to consider the size of both the wheel and your cat(s). It’s important to choose a wheel that is appropriately sized for your cat, as one that is too small or too large can be uncomfortable or even unsafe for your pet.
You’ll also want to consider whether the wheel can accommodate multiple cats if you have more than one.
Wheel stability
Cats can be quite active, and you don’t want the wheel to tip over or become unstable as they’re using it. Look for a wheel with a wide base and sturdy construction to ensure that it stays in place when your cat runs on it.
Space requirements of the wheel
Some wheels are designed to be compact and take up minimal space, while others are larger and more suitable for larger cats. Consider the available space in your home before buying a product.
Noise
Finally, you’ll want to consider the noise level of the wheel. Some wheels can be quite loud when in use, which can be annoying for you and potentially stress out your cat.
Look for a wheel that operates quietly or has features that help to reduce noise.
By considering these key features, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best cat exercise wheel for your furry friend.
Conclusion
There’s no shortage of cat exercise wheels, but we have shared only the best of the best based on reviews and expert recommendations.
Let us know if you have any questions or comments about this blog post, and we will do our best to help.