Is my hamster dying or hibernating

Knowing how to tell if your hamster is is my hamster dying or hibernating or hibernating is critical. You might have heard all those stories of hamster owners who almost buried their small animals alive because they thought they were already dead. Since some hamsters do hibernate during extremely cold weather, you may be forgiven if you assume that being motionless and cold is a sign that your hamster has died.

Last Updated: October 8, Approved. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. This article has been viewed , times. Many animals have developed the ability to hibernate as a natural way to increase chances of survival during the long, cold winter season. Being mindful of their temperature sensitivities is an important part of being a hamster owner.

Is my hamster dying or hibernating

Start by checking its heartbeat and breathing rate. Your hamster might be faint and slow during hibernation but is still detectable. Also, if the surrounding temperature is cold, then your hamster likely hibernated to preserve energy. Hibernation is common for hamsters and is a normal phenomenon. The sight of a motionless hamster in its habitat can momentarily startle any owner. Hibernation is a phenomenon where the animal sleeps for more extended periods to preserve their energy. When temperatures drop below 20 degrees Celsius, hamsters go into hibernation mode. While they do look motionless, try to look at your pet for a few minutes. Breathing is a sure sign of the hamster being alive and healthy! If your pet is just hibernating, you will undoubtedly notice them breathe every two minutes. Their chest and lower body are likely to inflate a bit with intervals in between. However, it is hard to detect it since their metabolism is already slow. Place your forefinger and thumb there for a few minutes, and silently detect whether you sense a thud like a rhythm. This thud will indicate that your hamster very well does have a heartbeat and is alive. Your hamster may have lowered its body temperature during hibernation to match the temperature of the surroundings.

To avoid sending your hamster into hibernation, ensure that it always has access to plenty of food and water. More so when the temperatures drop below 20 Degrees Celsius. Another way is to use a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel.

New hamster parents are often surprised to find their hamsters barely moving, sometimes even appearing dead. Depending on the situation, your hamster may even go into true hibernation. A hibernating hamster will appear to be asleep or even dead. They will be cool to the touch and may feel limp or stiff. They will not eat, drink, or eliminate. There may be no visible heartbeat or respiration, but you may see sporadic, shallow breathing if you look close enough.

By Eddie Chevrel. Updated on March 11, If your pet hamster has been sleeping for an unusually long period of time, you may wonder whether he is hibernating or simply dead. This article will help you determine whether your critter is going through a period of hibernation or has unfortunately passed on. We will also discuss what hibernation looks like in hamsters and practical ways to keep your hamster safe and healthy during winter. Here are a few things you can check to determine whether your hamster is hibernating or dead:. See also: 8 signs your little hamster has unfortunately passed away.

Is my hamster dying or hibernating

Losing a pet is one of the most painful experiences any pet parent will ever have to go through. But how can you tell if a hamster is dying? Below we will highlight tell-tale signs of a dying hamster. Hamsters, due to their small size, have delicate health, and even a small injury, stress, and minor illnesses can be fatal. If your hamster is about 3 years old, has an injury, is ill, or is stressed, you should seek veterinary help for him. Below are 7 signs of a dying hamster to be on the lookout for.

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OUR TEAM Our team is made up of professional pet trainers, veterinarians, and experienced pet owners who have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. Discussed below are some ways and tips to help you determine if you have a hibernating or dead hamster. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 2. It is also observed during the winter months when animals need to preserve their energy and retain body heat. Updated: October 8, Thank you for your feedback. The sight of a motionless hamster in its habitat can momentarily startle any owner. Please log in with your username or email to continue. The exact trigger for torpor depends on the type of hamster. I have learned a lot, thanks so much! However, be sparing with the fatty foods because a little goes a long way with tiny hamsters. How can you prevent or stop a hamster from hibernating?

Start by checking its heartbeat and breathing rate. Your hamster might be faint and slow during hibernation but is still detectable.

Provide plenty of warm bedding. Most hamsters hibernate due to lack of heat. If a hamster is only in a hibernation state, it will still display signs of breathing although these will only be very minute. Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues. Noticing these kinds of movements is a good indication that your hamster is just hibernating. Give your hamster warm milk. Medical tools and expertise can swiftly provide the confirmation you need and guide you on the appropriate course of action. If your pet is just hibernating, you will undoubtedly notice them breathe every two minutes. Give your hamster a more fattening diet. By contrast, dwarf species do not hibernate under normal conditions but will do so when the environment requires it.