Do hamsters sleep a lot when you first get them?

But hamsters really do sleep a lot. It's usually one of the first behaviors hamster pet owners notice when they bring their small friend into their house. It seems like your hamsters might be sleeping every time you look at them though.

Is it normal for a new hamster to sleep all day?

Hamsters usually sleep for about 12-14 hours a day1 but, unlike humans who typically sleep once a day, hamsters have polyphasic sleep-wake patterns. This means that they sleep multiple times a day so this 12-14 hours will be broken up into smaller segments throughout the day.

What to expect when you first get a hamster?

How long does it take for a hamster to get used to being held?

When you get your hamster the first 4 days DO NOT TOUCH OR MESS WITH IT. You have to let your hamster get used to it's “ environment” and home so let it be. After those four days begin slowly by letting you hamster sniff you. Your hamster will eventually get used to you for the 2 days.

How do you comfort a new hamster?

To make your new hamster trust you, put it in a warm, quiet room and let it spend a few days getting used to its new environment. Then, slowly walk up to the cage and stay there for a while, repeating that as often as necessary until the hamster explores its cage as usual while you're watching.

Why Is My Hamster Always Sleeping? (and other questions about sleep)

How do I bond with my new hamster?

Can I hold my hamster on the first day?

It'll take discipline, but the first thing you should do is avoid the urge to handle your new hamster for 12 to 24 hours after you first get it. Larger Syrian hamsters are more amenable to holding than dwarf hamsters, on the whole, but all will live longer, happier lives if you create a nurturing environment for them.

What to do after you buy a hamster?

Put your hamster in his cage straightaway, and then simply leave him alone for a few hours. During the first week, make sure the hamster has food and water, and don't spend hours gazing through the bars at him – just hang around for a few minutes when he's up and about, to help him get used to you.

Is my new hamster stressed?

Anxiety and stress in hamsters are characterized by hiding or avoidance behaviors like spending time near walls, in their nest boxes or under their bedding, as well as aggressive behaviors like biting handlers or other hamsters, a decrease in or lack of eating, or freezing when in your presence.

How do I know if my hamster is depressed?

Is it OK if my hamster sleeps at night?

As long as your hamster is sleeping regularly and staying healthy, you have nothing to be concerned about. Never attempt to modify your healthy hamster's sleep habits, as trying to change your hamster's natural sleep pattern can cause stress and lead to health problems.

How do I know if my hamster is happy?

How long does it take for a hamster to adjust to a new cage?

It can take a hamster as long as two weeks to become adjusted to their new environment. During this time, it is best that you avoid handling them. Never disturb them while they are sleeping and only reach into the cage to provide fresh food and water.

Why is my hamster sleeping so much?

If you were wondering why your hamster sleeps so much, worry no more. It's just part of hamsters' DNA to sleep while most predators are active and it's too hot outside to search for nourishment. They prefer to come out at dusk, when it's both safer and cooler, to hunt down seeds and puddles.

How do you relax a stressed hamster?

How long should I leave my new hamster alone?

When you first get your hamster home, the family will no doubt be eager to interact and bond with them. However, it is best to leave your hamster alone for the first few days.

How often should you handle a hamster?

Hold Your Hamster Often

Once a day is often enough, but you can hold them up to three times a day if they are handling it well. Don't stress your rodent out too much, but don't wait many days in between sessions either.

How old should a hamster be when you buy it?

Baby hamsters can safely go to adoptive homes as early as 3 weeks of age. It's preferable to adopt them out before they are 7 weeks old.

Can you touch a sleeping hamster?

Place your hamster's cage in a location where it will be around people but not disturbed by excess noise, other pets, and other distractions (especially during the day, when hamsters do most of their sleeping). Don't disturb or try to handle your hamster during the day when it is sleeping.

How much attention does a hamster need?

They don't require a lot of attention, get enough exercise running on their wheel, and are cute, cuddly, and pleasant to hold. They can make an excellent starter pet for some children. Unfortunately, hamsters don't come with care instructions.

How do you know if my hamster is comfortable with me?

How do I start handling my hamster?

Place your hand, palm facing down, on the floor of the cage for about four or five seconds before moving it towards your pet. Turn your palm up and wait for your hamster to crawl onto your hands. This part may take a while, but if you seize your hamster then it's likely to bite you.

Do hamsters need light at night?

Hamsters typically eat their meals at night, and they also typically get their exercise at night. Darkness makes them feel energetic and ready to conquer their "days." Because of that, hamsters need to have the lights off at night.

Where do hamsters like to be petted?

Gently stroking your hamster's fur is just one way to show affection. You can also hand-feed her vegetables or pieces of non-sugary cereal. Hamsters love to perch on their owner's shoulder or sleep in a shirt pocket.