Do Pet Hamsters Hibernate?
Some hamsters hibernate, a natural reaction to adverse conditions that allows animals to conserve energy. If your hamster is one of the breeds that hibernate, this information can help you figure out what's happening to your pet.
Other People Are Reading
-
Do hamsters really hibernate?
-
Some do. The Hamster Hideout specifies that hamsters technically do not hibernate. However, they can become torpid, a state during which they can slow down their body functions. The season of the year does not indicate or imply hibernation for hamsters. It is perhaps easiest to consider "hibernation" to be an aspect of hamster life.
Causes of Hibernation
-
Hamsters slow down their body functions if their living area becomes unusually cold. Dehydration can also be a factor. Golden hamsters start to slow down around 57 degrees Fahrenheit, and become torpid at 32 degrees. A hamster can grow sluggish within hours of a temperature drop.
-
Hamsters That Hibernate
-
Golden hamsters are known to hibernate. Dwarf hamsters do not hibernate. Syrian hamsters cannot survive cold temperatures and must be kept warm.
Symptoms
-
A hamster who is breathing shallowly and is cold may be experiencing torpidity or be in hibernation. You may think the hamster is dead at first glance.
Your Role
-
Usually, the hamster will come out of hibernation naturally. If you want to wake your hamster, Hamsterific.com recommends bringing your hamster into a warm room and placing it on a well-insulated heat pack. Rubbing the hamster may speed the wakening process.
After Hibernation
-
The hamster needs water to rehydrate itself. A small dropper can help deliver water. After it is drinking actively, you can give the hamster some soft food--perhaps some baby food or oatmeal delivered from your finger.
Keep a close eye on your hamster, but remember to keep it warm and allow it to rest as needed.
-
