Can Hamsters Overheat?
Hamsters are small, cute, and extremely popular pets that require daily care, warm housing, and plenty of fresh food and water. But can they overheat easily? Fortunately, hamsters are naturally well-adapted to dealing with heat.
Hamsters Can Easily Overheat
Hamsters can easily overheat in warm and hot climates, particularly those over 70ºF (21ºC). Since hamsters are small and have short fur, their bodies can become too hot in the summer. Additionally, hamsters can become overheated if their bedding or other objects in their cage absorb and retain heat.
Signs of Heatstroke in Hamsters
The earliest signs of heatstroke in hamsters are lethargy, panting, increased body temperature, and dry, cracked eyes. If a hamster reaches this stage, it is important to take immediate action to lower the temperature of their body.
Preventing Heatstroke in Hamsters
There are a few steps that can be taken to prevent heatstroke in hamsters:
- Keep the cage cool: Make sure the cage is not in any direct sunlight, and open windows and/or use a fan to help circulate air and keep the room temperature cool.
- Provide cool areas: Put cool, damp towels or burrowing material in the cage to provide the hamster with a cool area to shelter in.
- Monitor air temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the air inside the cage and take steps to keep the temperature below 70ºF (21ºC)
Conclusion
Hamsters may be small, but they can still suffer from extreme temperatures. It is important to keep their cages cool and monitor air temperatures to ensure they don’t become overheated. With the right care, hamsters can live healthy and happy lives.
