During the long, cold winter season, many animals have developed the ability to hibernate, which increases their chances of survival.During the wintertime, hamsters go into hibernation in the wild when the temperature drops below 40F.Being aware of their temperature sensitivities is important to being a hamster owner.
Step 1: Know the signs.
It can be hard to tell if your hamster is alive or dead.The breathing and heart rate of hamsters are slow down when they are in a hibernating state.They could go weeks without eating.It can be hard to notice the subtle signs of life in a small hamster.
Step 2: You should watch for movement.
hamsters will move very little during true hibernation.Sometimes they can enter a sleep phase in which they nod off from side to side.It's a good sign that your hamster is just resting.
Step 3: Look for signs of breathing.
Your hamster's breathing will be slower, but not completely absent.Listen for breathing sounds while holding your hamster in your hand.You can see if you can detect exhale breaths by putting your finger near their mouth.
Step 4: Feel warm.
A warm body temperature is maintained by a hibernating hamster.A warm hamster is a good example of a dead hamster.
Step 5: Try body heat.
Pick your hamster up and hold it against your body.Provide warmth for your hamster by using your body heat.If there are any changes in their behavior or if they start acting more alert, keep it for at least 30 minutes.
Step 6: A hot water bottle is a good way to warm your hamster.
Put your hamster in a towel with a bottle of hot water.Make sure the hamster doesn't get too hot by not touching the water bottle.This will help him get out of his shell.
Step 7: You can use a heating pad.
A warm heating pad that is heated to about 90F is a good place to put your hamster.This will help your pet come out of their state of sleep.If you don't have a heating pad, try putting your hamster on a towel.It will have the same effect.Make sure you keep an eye on your pet and make sure the heat isn't too much for it to handle.
Step 8: Provide your hamster with warm milk.
If your hamster becomes more alert, try to give it warm milk through a dropper.If you want to make sure the milk is not too hot, you should heat it up in the microwave or on the stove.It should not be hard to tolerate.Feed it to your hamster in a bowl.You can give your hamster plain water, water with sugar, or children's Pedialyte with a medicine dropper.Anything you can do to get them to drink water is a good idea.Rehydration will help your hamster get out of its shell.
Step 9: Make sure your hamster has enough food and water.
In order to conserve energy, a lack of food or water can be triggered.Ensure that your hamster has access to plenty of food and water to stay awake.
Step 10: There should be plenty of warm bedding.
The bedding in your hamster's cage will help protect it from the cold.Make sure your hamster has enough food and water.Adding more bedding can prevent your hamster from starting to sleep.
Step 11: Give your hamster a bigger diet.
Your hamster will not go into hibernation mode if you have more body fat.Try feeding your hamster more high-caloric food items.A little goes a long way with tiny hamsters, so be sparing with the fat foods.
Step 12: Be prepared for the winter.
If it seems warm enough, be more aware of your hamster's behavior during the cold winter months.During the winter, give your hamster some extra bedding and give it more food that is high in fat.During the cold season, make sure to keep an eye on your pet.