Do Hamsters Get Cold? How to Keep Your Hamster Warm and Happy

Hamsters are sensitive creatures, and temperature changes can significantly affect their well-being. It's important to know whether your hamster can get too cold and what you can do to keep them comfortable. Let's explore how cold temperatures impact hamsters, signs that your hamster might be too cold, and how to care for them in chilly conditions.

Do Hamsters Get Cold?

The Short Answer: Yes

Yes, hamsters can and do get cold. This typically happens when the temperature in the room where your hamster is kept falls below 20°C (68°F) for an extended period. Even a few hours in a cold environment can be too much for a hamster to handle.

The ideal temperature for your hamster is between 20-23°C (68-75°F), with no drafts or direct sunlight. If the temperature consistently drops below this range, your hamster might become cold and could develop health issues as a result.

How to Tell If Your Hamster Is Too Cold

Signs of Coldness in Hamsters

1. Piling Up Bedding: One of the first signs that your hamster is too cold is when they start gathering a lot of bedding material into their hideout. While hamsters naturally do this to create a comfortable nest, excessive piling indicates they are trying to insulate themselves against the cold.

2. Lethargy and Loss of Appetite: If your hamster becomes unusually lethargic and seems to lose interest in food, it could be a sign that they are cold. They might be trying to conserve energy and body heat by sleeping more and moving less.

3. Shivering or Shaking: In extreme cases, a cold hamster might shiver or shake. If you notice this, it's crucial to move your hamster to a warmer environment immediately.

Dangers of Keeping Your Hamster in a Cold Room

Hibernation and Hypothermia

One of the main dangers of keeping your hamster in a cold room is the risk of hibernation. While wild hamsters may hibernate to survive cold winters, pet hamsters are not equipped to handle hibernation effectively. If the temperature drops too low, your hamster might enter a state of hibernation that could lead to dehydration or even hypothermic shock, which can be fatal.

Cold and Flu Symptoms

Hamsters, like humans, can catch colds. A cold room can lead to your hamster developing cold-like symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and fatigue. This can further weaken their immune system, making them more susceptible to other illnesses.

How to Tell If Your Hamster Has a Cold

Symptoms of a Hamster Cold

If you suspect your hamster has caught a cold, look for the following symptoms:

• Runny or Wet Nose: A hamster with a cold may have a runny nose.
• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing is a common sign of a cold.
• Sticky Eyes: Discharge or stickiness around the eyes is another indicator.
• Matted or Ruffled Fur: Cold hamsters may have disheveled or matted fur.
• Low Energy and Loss of Appetite: A cold can make your hamster lethargic and less interested in eating.
• Increased Thirst: Your hamster might drink more water than usual.
• Warm to the Touch: If your hamster feels unusually warm when you pick them up, it could indicate they have a fever or are fighting off a cold.

If you notice these symptoms, it's important to consult a veterinarian who can provide the appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics if necessary.

Treating and Caring for a Hamster with a Cold

Helping Your Hamster Recover

If your hamster has a cold, don't panic—most hamsters can recover with proper care. Follow these steps to help your hamster through their illness:

1. Provide Extra Nesting Material: Give your hamster plenty of nesting material to help them stay warm. They will use it to build a cozy nest where they can rest and recover.

2. Maintain the Right Temperature: Ensure the room temperature remains within the ideal range of 20-23°C (68-75°F). Avoid overheating the room, as too much warmth can also be harmful.

3. Avoid Drafts and Direct Sunlight: Make sure your hamster’s cage is placed in a draft-free area away from windows, doors, and external walls.

4. Isolate the Sick Hamster: If you have more than one hamster, it’s best to separate the sick one to prevent the cold from spreading.

With the right care, your hamster should recover within a week and return to their usual activities.

Conclusion

Hamsters are vulnerable to cold temperatures, and it's essential to keep them in a warm, stable environment to prevent illness. By recognizing the signs of cold and taking steps to maintain an ideal temperature, you can keep your hamster healthy and happy. If your hamster does catch a cold, prompt care and a visit to the veterinarian will help them recover quickly.