r/Hedgehogs

hi all!! i just needed some advice on how to get my hedgehog (M, 7 months) to use his wheel. he has the nitenagel wheel in size medium (10in), and when i put him on his back isnt arched and hes able to move it without a problem. however, he never voluntarily gets on it, and when i put him on it he only runs on it for a couple of seconds before getting off.

he exerts his energy by running around his cage. he doesnt pace, and doesnt show signs of stress (or other injuries/sickness). he plays with his toys, always finishes his food and water, and is friendly with me. so he is a good and healthy hedgie overall, I just cant get him to run on his wheel and i feel bad because i cant imagine just running around his cage to be all that fun.

any advice? Ive tried putting food on his wheel, as well as putting him on the wheel and keeping a wall next to him for like 10 seconds for him to run so he understand what it is - but none of those seem to work.

my guess is the wheel isnt big enough for him to confidently run, but any input would be appreciated!