Have you thought about getting a hamster? They are very popular pets because of their unquestionable charm and simplicity of maintenance. But just because they require less upkeep than other animals doesn’t imply they are trouble-free. And many hamsters encounter these circumstances on a regular basis.
Shaking is among the more frequent issues that hamster owners experience. Shaking in hamsters can occur for a number of causes. In this essay, we’ll discuss some most likely reasons why a hamster is shaking and discuss solutions.
Is it normal for hamsters to shake?
It is abnormal for either humans or animals to tremble or shake. This behavior typically implies that there is a problem. Shaking could imply a number of things to hamsters.
Shaking is a clear sign that your hamster is under pressure, either physically or mentally. This is frequently caused by physiological conditions like diabetes or by natural life cycles like hibernation. Additionally, excessive emotional stimulation, such as fear or worry, will cause hamsters to shake.
Shaking and quivering indicate that your hamster is under stress, regardless of whether the scenario is normal or not.
Reasons why a hamster is shaking
It’s critical for hamster owners to understand the underlying reasons behind their pets’ shaking. Some causes can be easily fixed and are less important than others. But it’s crucial to know the difference between an emergency and less dangerous shaking.
- Shaking caused by fear and anxiety
People and hamsters alike have a tendency to tremble under tense or stressful situations. In fact, many parents give their children hamsters as their first pets as a way to teach them responsibility and foster compassion. These tiny creatures are quickly startled. However, you can quickly enliven them.
However, with consistent attention and handling, your hamster can get used to you and develop strong affection for you. However, this is a gradual process for many hamsters. When you first hold them, there’s a strong possibility they’ll be apprehensive and restless, which might cause trembling and shaking.
Additionally, whenever they are with unfamiliar people, this is likely to occur. Even though you might be eager to show off your pet hamster, you must consider how comfortable it is for it. The majority of hamsters can only feel at ease around people they are gradually getting to know well. Ask your friends not to touch your hamster if you observe him shivering when introducing him to new people. Your little guy will feel more at peace thanks to this.
- Climate and hibernation shakes
Depending on the time of year and the weather, your hamster can also begin to shake. Hamsters typically hibernate and enter a low-energy state when the surrounding temperature drops significantly. When they stop engaging in their regular activities, such as running, digging, playing, etc., you will know this is happening.
Although the behavior of a pet in hibernation may appear to be very sick, it is actually rather common. When hamsters hibernate, they can appear lifeless besides their breathing. This is explained by their small size in the vast universe. Simply relocate your hamster to a warmer location. They will typically get back up and moving after doing this.
They will tremble and shiver due to the abrupt drop in their body temperature, though. But relax; this trembling is very normal.
A response that causes the body to tremble is produced when their body temperature quickly changes from cold to warm. It’s exactly the same as what happens when we enter a warm house after being outside on a chilly winter day.
You shouldn’t be alarmed if your hamster begins to shake when it emerges from hibernation. But you must pay special attention to their trembling. After warming up, they shouldn’t shake for an extended period of time. Shaking unceasingly could indicate a health problem. Call your veterinarian right away if you notice your hamster shaking for an extended amount of time following hibernation.
- Nervous system problems
In addition to nervousness and hibernation, hamsters might tremble from issues with their neurological system. When others touch them, they may shake violently, maybe as a result of overstimulating them.
The stimulation causes your hamster to shake and turn over because it forces their regular muscle movements to move unnaturally. It is best to handle your little guy as gently as you can if you notice your hamster shivers whenever it is held or stroked.
When you present your hamster to friends and family, be sure to let them know about its condition. They can then handle your child with even greater care in this way.
- Serious medical conditions
Last but not least, hamsters’ shaking may be a sign of a more serious illness. Diabetes, stroke, heatstroke, skin parasites, and congestive heart failure are a few conditions that are known to make hamsters shake.
Other typical symptoms to watch for include nasal discharge, watery stools, weight loss, a rough appearance, and glazed-over eyes. If any of these symptoms, together with shaking, appear, your hamster may need immediate medical attention.
Should I worry about my shaking hamster?
Shaking in hamsters can either be entirely natural or indicate something more problematic. Everything hinges on the circumstances. It is important to call your veterinarian or take your pet hamster to the clinic right away if it exhibits unusual shaking symptoms.
If you want more helpful advice on looking after your hamster, including tips on food, toys, accessories and accommodation, add a comment below to let us know!
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