Hamster Seems Out of Sorts? Alpha Vets Shares What Could Be Wrong
December 17, 2024
Does your hamster seem less active or are they spending more time asleep lately? As we settle into the colder months, many small pet owners start to wonder if their hamster could be hibernating or if something else could be going on. Alpha Vets has advice for checking your hamster’s wellbeing and ensuring they stay healthy and comfortable through winter in Greater London.
Call us for tailored hamster advice on 0208 943 2303.
Hamsters and hibernation
Unlike some other small animals, not all hamsters naturally hibernate, but they can enter a state called torpor when it gets very cold. Torpor is a temporary state where a hamster’s body temperature and activity level drop significantly to save energy. Hamster torpor can last between hours and days, but is unlikely to continue for weeks or months, especially in pet hamsters living in homes.
However, pet hamsters don’t need to hibernate, especially when they live indoors in controlled temperatures. Alpha Vets’ team share that if you think your hamster might be inactive due to the cold or you are concerned about their health, here are a few signs to check:
- Cold to the Touch: A hamster in torpor may feel colder than usual.
- Slow Breathing: Breathing slows down significantly, making it look like they’re barely breathing.
- Unresponsive to Noise: Normally, hamsters react to sounds, but in torpor, they may remain motionless.
If you’re unsure, remember to contact our vet practice in Teddington to discuss your hamster’s behaviour with our team.
Signs of illness to look out for
A sudden change in your hamster’s activity level could indicate an illness rather than torpor. Hamsters can develop respiratory infections, dental issues, and other common health problems that may cause lethargy. If you notice any of the following signs, reach out to our team at Alpha Vets for guidance:
- Laboured Breathing: Unlike torpor, laboured breathing may indicate a respiratory infection.
- Discharge or Wetness Around the Nose: This could signal a cold or infection.
- Loss of Appetite: If your hamster isn’t eating or drinking, it’s a sign something is wrong.
- Decreased Movement: If they’re not exploring, they may not feel well.
Call our vet practice in Teddington on 0208 943 2303 if you notice any of these symptoms.
If your hamster is stiff and unresponsive, this sadly indicates they have passed away rather than being in torpor. Contact our compassionate team at Alpha Vets for support or advice during this difficult time.
How to prevent torpor
Keeping your hamster’s living environment warm is the best way to prevent torpor. Our team at Alpha Vets are sharing a few simple tips to help you keep their enclosure cosy:
- Place their cage away from draughts, making sure to avoid areas by windows and doors where temperatures fluctuate.
- Use extra bedding that is soft and insulating to give them a warm, safe place to burrow.
- Ensure a consistent room temperature of around 18-22°C.
- Offer hiding spaces so they feel secure and snug.
For extra advice on keeping your hamster safe this winter, register your pet with Alpha Vets today.
