Do hamsters hibernate? And what is torpor?

Despite many reports and articles out there claiming that hamsters go into hibernation over the winter months, pet hamsters should not hibernate. During the process of hibernation, an animal’s metabolism slows down to allow them to reduce the amount of energy they’re using. This causes them to enter a deep sleep for a long period of time. Our pet hamsters are not able to do this.

It can actually be very dangerous for hamsters to do this. When hamsters get too cold, they can go into a state called ‘torpor’. This puts them at serious risk of hypothermia and the result could be fatal.

What does torpor mean?

Torpor is the name of an involuntary state of reduced mental or motor activity. It’s a survival tactic which is automatically triggered when an animal gets too cold or if they have limited access to food and water. In torpor, the body temperature will lower along with the heart rate and metabolic rate for short periods of time.

Is my hamster in torpor?

There are some early signs of torpor to look out for. You might notice your hamster sleeping more than normal or being lethargic. You may even notice them shivering or shaking.

• A hamster in a deep state of torpor will be limp and unresponsive to both touch and sound.
• You may find them curled up into a ball as they will be trying to keep as warm as possible.
• When you do touch them, they may feel cold to the touch.

Pick your hamster up and look carefully for any signs of breathing – you may only notice very slow, shallow breaths. When you stroke them, look out for some small movements in their whiskers.

What should I do if my hamster is in torpor?

• If your hamster is in torpor, or you suspect they are, move them into a warm room.
• Handle them very carefully and gently pick them up.
• Lightly stroking and handling them may help them warm up and encourage them to gradually wake up.
• Holding your hamster close to your body, or having skin-to-skin contact may also help to raise their body temperature.
• You can also try warming them up carefully, by using a warm heat pad or warm water bottle wrapped in a towel – just make sure they’re not too hot.
• Finally, take them to the vets as soon as possible.

How can I prevent my hamster going into torpor?

• Hamsters go into this torpid state when exposed to cold temperatures. The best way to prevent this is to make sure the room they’re in is kept at around 18 – 21C all year round.
• In the colder winter months, if their room cannot be kept at this temperature, move them into a warmer area of the house away from any draughts.
• Provide your hamster with lots of bedding and soft paper/tissue bedding for nesting with – the more you can give them the better!
• Check on your hamster regularly – this will help you to notice any changes quickly.