Caring for Hamsters in Winter: Essential Tips Inside!

1. During the winter months, hamsters tend to decrease their level of physical activity. Consequently, their time spent on the exercise wheel will also diminish, and they will spend most of their days sleeping. Despite this, it's important for owners not to disturb them frequently, allowing them to enjoy a peaceful winter. In the cold season, it's advisable to feed your hamster highfat and highcalorie foods such as sunflower seeds, mealworms, and shrimp to ensure they have ample energy reserves.

2. Keep your hamster's cage away from areas with extreme temperature fluctuations. Ideally, place it in a wellregulated indoor space, away from direct sunlight and drafts. It's crucial to maintain a warm environment. Line the cage with wood shavings or provide tissues for your hamster to create a cozy nest. A wooden or cottonlined nest is ideal, as it not only keeps them warm but also satisfies their instinct to burrow and snuggle into the soft material.

3. Hamsters may also experience pseudohibernation during the winter, which, if not properly managed, can lead to them falling into a deep sleep from which they may not awaken. This behavior stems from the wild hamster's instinct to hibernate, but pet hamsters, often bred for domestication, do not typically exhibit this trait. However, when indoor temperatures drop below 15°C, pseudohibernation can occur. Signs include stiffness, with the hamster possibly curling up to retain heat, resembling a selfhug. Despite this, their limbs and whiskers may twitch slightly, and you can feel their faint heartbeat. In such cases, quickly use a heating device to warm your hamster, but be cautious to keep it at a safe distance to avoid overheating. If using a hot water bottle, wrap it in a towel and maintain a temperature that is not too hot to the touch. As your hamster starts to regain consciousness, offer them some glucose water to replenish their energy levels.

Hamsters are particularly sensitive to cold, so it's essential to prepare their winter gear promptly to ensure they are always in a warm and comfortable environment, thus safeguarding their wellbeing. For those looking to delve deeper into the art of hamster care, consulting with an online pet veterinarian can provide further insights.