This is Why Hamsters Move Their Bedding!

Hamsters are adorable little creatures that make great pets. They are easy to take care of, and they are also incredibly entertaining to watch. One of the things that hamsters do that may seem strange to their owners is that they move their bedding around. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this behavior and offer some tips on how to properly care for your hamster’s bedding.

Before we dive into the reasons why hamsters move their bedding, let’s first define what bedding is and why it is important for hamsters.

Bedding is the material that lines the bottom of a hamster’s cage. It serves several purposes, including providing a comfortable and safe place for your hamster to sleep, absorb moisture and odor, and prevent injuries to your pet’s feet. Bedding can be made of various materials, such as wood shavings, paper-based bedding, aspen shavings, or corn cob bedding.

Reasons for Hamsters to Move their Bedding

So, why do hamsters move their bedding around? Here are some of the common reasons:

To maintain cleanliness

Hamsters are naturally clean animals, and they like to keep their living space tidy. If they notice that their bedding is dirty or soiled, they may move it around to create a cleaner spot to sleep on.

To create burrows

In the wild, hamsters live in burrows that they dig themselves. It’s a natural instinct for them to create a similar environment in their cages. By moving their bedding around, they can create tunnels and hiding spots that mimic their natural habitat.

For nesting

Female hamsters will often move their bedding around to create a comfortable space for their babies. They will gather materials such as paper, hay, and other soft materials to create a cozy nest for their offspring.

For security

Hamsters are prey animals in the wild, which means that they are always on the lookout for potential predators. By moving their bedding around, they can create a sense of security and protection. This sense of security and protection helps them relax and makes them less stressed.

To regulate temperature

Hamsters are sensitive to changes in temperature, and they may move their bedding around to find a warmer or cooler spot in their cage. This behavior is particularly common during the winter months when the temperature drops.

Out of boredom

Lastly, hamsters may move their bedding around simply out of boredom. They are active animals that need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. If they don’t have enough toys or activities to keep them occupied, they may resort to moving their bedding around as a form of entertainment.

Signs That You Should Change Your Hamster’s Bedding

As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to keep an eye on your hamster’s bedding and know when it’s time to change it. Here are some signs that your hamster needs to move its bedding:

Bad smell

If you notice a foul odor emanating from your hamster’s cage, it’s likely time to change the bedding. This could be a sign of urine buildup, which can be harmful to your pet’s health if left unaddressed.

Wet or damp bedding

Hamsters are prone to urinating in their bedding, which can cause it to become damp or wet. This can lead to bacterial growth and other health problems, so it’s important to change the bedding as soon as you notice any moisture.

Discoloration of the bedding

Similarly, if you notice any discoloration in your hamster’s bedding, it’s a sign that it’s time for a change. Discoloration can be a sign of mold or other harmful bacteria.

Visible rodent droppings

If you notice any rodent droppings in your hamster’s bedding, it’s time to change it. Droppings can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites that can make your pet sick.

Hamster not using its bedding

Lastly, if you notice that your hamster is not using its bedding, it may be time to change it. This could be a sign that the bedding is uncomfortable or dirty, and your hamster is seeking a more suitable sleeping spot.

How Often to Change Hamster Bedding

The frequency with which you should change your hamster’s bedding will depend on the type of bedding you use. Here are some general guidelines:

Wood shavings

If you use wood shavings as bedding, you should change it once a week. This will help to prevent any moisture buildup and keep your pet’s cage clean.

Paper-based bedding

If you use paper-based bedding, you should change it every 3-4 days. This will help to prevent any odor buildup and keep your pet’s cage fresh.

Aspen shavings

If you use aspen shavings as bedding, you should change it every 7-10 days. This will help to prevent any bacterial growth and keep your pet’s cage comfortable.

Corn cob bedding

If you use corn cob bedding, you should change it every 5-7 days. This will help to prevent any moisture buildup and keep your pet’s cage dry.

Recommendations from experts

It’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or other pet care expert to determine the best bedding and cleaning schedule for your hamster. They can offer personalized advice based on your pet’s specific needs and environment.

What Type of Bedding to Use for Your Hamster

When choosing bedding for your hamster, there are several options to consider:

Wood shavings

Wood shavings are a popular choice for hamster bedding. They are absorbent, comfortable, and provide a natural scent that can be calming for hamsters.

Paper-based bedding

Paper-based bedding is another popular option. It’s made from recycled paper and is dust-free, which can be beneficial for hamsters with respiratory issues.

Aspen shavings

Aspen shavings are another type of wood-based bedding that is popular among hamster owners. They are absorbent, odor-free, and provide a natural scent that can be calming for hamsters.

Corn cob bedding

Corn cob bedding is made from ground corn cobs and is a good option for hamsters that are prone to allergies or respiratory issues. It’s absorbent, dust-free, and can help to control odors.

When choosing bedding for your hamster, it’s important to consider their individual needs and preferences. Some hamsters may prefer one type of bedding over another, so it may take some trial and error to find the right fit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hamsters move their bedding around for various reasons, including maintaining cleanliness, creating burrows, nesting, security, regulating temperature, and out of boredom.

As a pet owner, it’s important to keep an eye on your hamster’s bedding and change it as needed to ensure their health and comfort.

By choosing the right type of bedding and cleaning it regularly, you can provide a safe and comfortable home for your furry friend.