Is It Normal for Hamsters to Be Hyper at Night?
1. It's quite normal for hamsters to be hyperactive at night. This is because they've spent most of the day napping, and as the evening approaches, they have a surge of energy. To burn off this excess vitality, they often engage in vigorous exercise, which can manifest as a whirlwind of activity within their cage. However, if your hamster is running around at night more frequently than usual, be sure to remove any obstacles from the cage to prevent potential injuries from overexcitement. Additionally, ensure your pet has ample food and water, as they'll likely need to rehydrate and refuel after their energetic sprees.
2. If your hamster is frequently running at night, it might be due to a lack of a running wheel, which is an essential item for hamster care. A running wheel allows them to exercise and release their pentup energy. Consider providing your hamster with a running wheel; it might find it a fun alternative to running around the cage. Some hamsters might also use this behavior as a way to cope with stress or unhappiness, much like how they might bite at the cage when feeling overwhelmed. Moreover, new hamsters may run frantically as they adjust to their new surroundings.
3. For hamsters living in a samesex pair, their nocturnal antics could be due to the male hamster's desire to mate with the female, or the female might be pregnant and reacting aggressively to the male's advances. These situations are natural, but once the female is pregnant, it's important to separate the male to ensure the female's comfort and the health of her pregnancy.
4. If your hamster is running around at night more than usual, it might be reacting to something unsettling in their environment. For instance, if there's a cat in the house, the cat's presence can be enough to unsettle the hamster, causing them to dart around their cage in search of a safe haven.
Hamsters' nocturnal running is generally not a cause for concern, especially if they remain in good spirits and appetite. However, providing a running wheel is crucial to meet their exercise needs. Should you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult with an online veterinarian for expert advice.
