Why is My Hamster Shaking? Causes & How to Prevent it

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Hamsters are adorable and fun pets to keep at home. They are small, furry, and cute, and they bring a lot of joy to their owners.

However, sometimes, hamsters can exhibit strange behaviors that may worry their owners. One of these behaviors is shaking. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why hamsters shake and how to prevent it.

Physical Reasons for Shaking

Cold

There are various physical reasons why hamsters shake. One of the most common causes is cold. Hamsters are sensitive to temperature changes, and they may shake when they are feeling cold. Other symptoms of cold include sneezing and lethargy. To prevent your hamster from feeling cold, make sure that their cage is located in a warm area of your home and provide them with enough bedding to keep them warm.

Stress

Another physical reason why hamsters shake is stress. Hamsters are easily stressed, and they may shake when they are feeling anxious or uncomfortable. Stressful situations for hamsters include loud noises, sudden movements, and being handled roughly. To prevent your hamster from feeling stressed, provide them with a quiet and calm environment, handle them gently, and avoid sudden movements.

Illness

Illness and pain are also common physical reasons why hamsters shake. If your hamster is shaking in addition to showing other signs of illness such as loss of appetite, diarrhea, or lethargy, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Common illnesses in hamsters include respiratory infections and diarrhea.

Behavioral Reasons for Shaking

Excitement

In addition to physical reasons, hamsters may also shake due to behavioral reasons. One of these reasons is excitement. Hamsters are naturally curious and playful animals, and they may shake when they are excited or happy. Other symptoms of excitement include running around and making chirping noises.

Fear

Fear is another common behavioral reason why hamsters shake. Hamsters are prey animals, and they may feel threatened by their environment or other animals. If your hamster is shaking due to fear, it is important to remove them from the situation that is causing them to be afraid and provide them with a safe and calm environment.

Old age

Lastly, old age can also be a behavioral reason why hamsters shake. As hamsters age, their bodies become weaker, and they may start to shake or tremble. This is a natural part of the aging process, and there is no need to worry unless the shaking is accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of appetite or lethargy.

Preventing Hamster Shaking

The best way to prevent hamster shaking is to provide your hamster with proper care and attention. This includes providing them with a warm and comfortable environment, handling them gently, and providing them with enough food and water. Additionally, it is important to keep their cage clean and free from any potential dangers such as sharp objects or toxic substances.

If you have a hamster that is easily stressed or anxious, consider providing them with toys or activities that can help them relax. Examples include chew toys, exercise wheels, and tunnels.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If your hamster is shaking in addition to showing other signs of illness such as loss of appetite, diarrhea, or lethargy, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Other warning signs to look out for include difficulty breathing, discharge from the eyes or nose, and a change in behavior.

Timely intervention is crucial when it comes to hamster health, as they are small animals that can deteriorate quickly if not treated promptly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hamsters may shake due to physical or behavioral reasons. Understanding the reasons why your hamster is shaking is important to prevent any potential health problems.

By providing your hamster with proper care and attention, you can prevent shaking and ensure that your furry friend remains healthy and happy.

Remember to seek veterinary care immediately if your hamster is shaking in addition to showing other signs of illness.

ThePetFaq Team
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