Hamsters & Hibernation

Sharp declines in temperature can lead a hamster to enter hibernation.

Dwarf hamsters originated in cold climates, including Siberia and other parts of Russia. But Syrian hamsters come from warm desert climates, making them less adaptable to cold temperatures. Although it goes against their nature, Syrians hamsters can slip into hibernation when they get too cold.

Identification

A hibernating hamster might appear to be dead because it is so still and its breathing is so shallow. To conserve energy, heart rate and metabolism also slow down in hibernation.

Significance

Hibernation is not normal for hamsters, according to Hamsterific.com. It typically signifies that the temperature has dropped too low or that the animal doesn't have enough food and water.

Warning

Because hamsters don't typically hibernate, they aren't built to go for long periods of time without food and water. Dehydration is a very real danger if the hamster hibernates too long.

Prevention/Solution

If hibernation is suspected, the hamster's owner should bring the animal into a warm room and rub it vigorously until it awakens. Rehydration should be attempted using a small syringe or a dropper filled with water.

Expert Insight

The easiest way to distinguish between death and hibernation is to observe the hamster's whiskers, according to HamsterHideout.com. If they are twitching, the animal is still alive.

References

• Hamsterific: Hamster Hibernation
• Hamster Hideout: Do Hamsters Hibernate?