Hamster Hibernation: Why Do They Sleep So Much?

If your hamster sleeps all day, it's probably because they're a nocturnal creature. In the wild, hamsters are prey animals, so they stay awake at night to collect food and secure their homes, and sleep during the day when it's safer and cooler. However, if your hamster sleeps all day and doesn't wake up at night, it could be a sign that something is wrong. They may be hibernating due to low temperatures, or they could be unwell.

Hamsters are nocturnal, so they sleep during the day and are active at night

Hamsters are nocturnal, which means they sleep during the day and are awake and active at night. They typically sleep for 6-8 hours a day, although some sources suggest this could be as much as 12-14 hours. However, they don't sleep in one go and will wake up several times between naps.

Hamsters are crepuscular, which means their activity is related to twilight. They will go to sleep before dawn and wake up before or after dusk, typically reaching peak activity in the early morning. They are most active at dawn and dusk, and you may see them moving around during the early morning or late evening. Dwarf hamsters and Chinese hamsters are more flexible with their sleep schedules than Syrian hamsters.

If your hamster sleeps a lot, it could be because they are trying to hibernate. This can be triggered by a drop in temperature, so make sure their environment is warm enough. If your hamster is sleeping a lot and not waking up during the night, take them to the vet.

It's important to let your hamster sleep and not wake them up. Hamsters are naturally aggressive and nervous, and waking them will put a strain on your relationship. They will become irritated and aggressive, and are more likely to bite you. Disturbing their sleep will also cause them stress, which can lead to health issues.

If your hamster is sleeping more than usual, it may be hibernating or sick

Hamsters are nocturnal creatures, which means they sleep during the day and are awake at night. They typically sleep for 6-8 hours a day, although some sources suggest this could be as much as 12-14 hours, and not all in one go. If your hamster is sleeping more than usual, it may be hibernating, sick, or stressed.

Hibernation

Hamsters may try to hibernate if the temperature in their environment falls below 18°C (64°F). If you think your hamster is hibernating, you should gradually increase the temperature to 20-23°C (68-73°F). If they still don't wake up, take them to the vet.

Illness

If your hamster is sleeping a lot and doesn't get up in the evening when they usually do, they might be ill. Hamsters are prone to colds, digestive issues, and a serious condition called wet tail, which is caused by the intestinal bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis. If you suspect your hamster is unwell, check their eating and pooping habits, and call your vet for advice.

Stress

Hamsters can be easily stressed by changes to their environment, such as loud noises, bright lights, or the presence of a cat. If you've recently made changes to your hamster's habitat, try changing things back to how they were originally. You should also ensure their cage is located in a quiet, calm area of your house, away from other pets and children.

Respiratory infections are common in hamsters and can cause lethargy and increased sleep

Respiratory infections are common in hamsters, and they can cause lethargy and increased sleep. If you notice that your hamster is sleeping more than usual during the day, it is important to monitor their behaviour and look out for other symptoms.

Hamsters are crepuscular and nocturnal, which means they are most active at dawn and dusk, and sleep during the day. However, if your hamster is sleeping more than the usual 6-8 hours a day, or is sleeping during their usually active hours, it could be a sign of a respiratory infection.

Respiratory infections are very contagious and can spread easily between hamsters. They are often seen in hamsters from pet stores, as the stressful environment can weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to infections. Basic signs of a respiratory infection include sneezing, wheezing, and laboured breathing. You may also notice discharge from the eyes and/or nose, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In more severe cases, your hamster may collapse in exhaustion after light or mild exercise.

If you suspect your hamster is suffering from a respiratory infection, it is important to take them to a veterinarian, especially if you notice any of the above symptoms. The veterinarian will be able to diagnose the illness and prescribe treatment, which usually involves antibiotics.

To prevent respiratory infections in hamsters, it is important to keep their cage in a quiet, calm area, away from other pets or children. Additionally, ensure the room temperature is comfortable and avoid any sudden changes, as this can cause stress and weaken their immune system. Keep their cage clean and sanitised, and avoid using bedding with wood shavings, as this can irritate their respiratory system.

Older hamsters sleep more often, but not as deeply or intensely as younger hamsters

Hamsters are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night and sleep during the day. They typically sleep for 6-8 hours a day, although some sources suggest this could be as much as 12-14 hours. Unlike humans, hamsters don't sleep in one long stretch but instead have multiple sleep cycles throughout the day and night.

Older hamsters tend to sleep more often than younger ones, but their sleep is not as deep or intense. As hamsters age, their sleep patterns may change, and they may sleep more during the day. This is because older hamsters may not have the same energy levels as younger ones and may tire more easily. They may also be less active due to joint pain or other age-related health issues.

Additionally, older hamsters may have different sleeping patterns because they are less sensitive to their surroundings. Younger hamsters are typically more active and playful, and their sleep may be interrupted by their excitement to explore and play. Older hamsters, on the other hand, may be more accustomed to their environment and have established a routine, resulting in more consistent and longer sleep periods.

It's important to provide a comfortable sleeping environment for older hamsters. This includes ensuring the cage is in a quiet, calm area, maintaining optimal temperature levels to prevent hibernation, and providing soft bedding for their comfort.

If you notice a significant change in your older hamster's sleeping patterns, it's important to monitor their health and behaviour. Increased sleep could be a sign of illness, stress, or environmental factors such as temperature changes or loud noises. Consult a veterinarian if you have concerns or observe other unusual behaviours.

It's normal for hamsters to sleep and stay hidden during the day, especially when settling into a new home

Hamsters are nocturnal, which means they are most active at night and sleep during the day. They are crepuscular, which means their activity is related to twilight. They are most active at dawn and dusk, and you may see them moving around their cage throughout the day. Dwarf hamsters and Chinese hamsters are more flexible with their sleep schedules than Syrian hamsters.

Hamsters are prey animals, so they tend to hide and sleep during the day when predators are active, and it is too hot to be outside. They prefer to hunt for food at dusk when it is safer and cooler. They are also easily startled, so they may bite if they are woken up suddenly, thinking you are a predator.

If you have just brought your hamster home, it will take some time for it to get used to its new environment. It may take some time for your hamster to settle in and adapt to sleeping during the day. During this time, it may be scurrying around its cage, marking its territory, and getting familiar with its surroundings. It will also need time to learn to trust you.

To help your hamster settle in, place its cage in a quiet, calm area of your house where it won't be disturbed by other pets or children during the day. Ensure the room is not too bright or loud, as this may disrupt its sleep.

Frequently asked questions