Hamsters are very active, often running around for no reason or to explore new territory if their cage is in an unfamiliar environment. Luckily, most of a hamster’s running around isn’t cause for alarm. But can they run around too much; could it potentially be too risky to their wellbeing?
A hamster will run around like crazy for lots of different reasons, especially if it’s stressed, looking for food, exercising, sick, exploring new territory, or in heat. Hamsters are very active and in many cases, running around is normal. However, observe them closely for possible health issues.
In the rest of this article, I will discuss a few topics related to this question, including illnesses, stress or anxiety, exercise, heat, and hunger.
I will also discuss the signs of stress in hamsters, how to prevent it, and why your pet runs away from you.
Reasons Why a Hamster Could Be Running Around Like Crazy
As I mentioned earlier, hamsters are active pets that move around frequently. Thus, their movement is not a matter of great concern. However, if they move and run around consistently for too long, they could be having issues that need addressing.
Some of the main reasons why the pets run around include:
Hot Weather
Hamsters live comfortably within temperature ranges of 65 to 75 °F (18 to 23 °C). When the temperature rises beyond these limits, their bodies have difficulty regulating their temperatures. Therefore, they will run around trying to find a cold place to cool down.
You can help by moving their cage under a shade when it gets too hot. Therefore, if you live in an area with high temperatures like Florida or Hawaii, you need to be more observant.
Check out, How Long Can a Lost Hamster Survive?
Illnesses
Although hamsters rarely show illness symptoms, running around could sometimes be a sign of a health problem. They could also exhibit weight loss or lack of appetite. Elderly pets face higher risks of stroke.
Extreme temperatures also pose a stroke risk to hamsters. If your pet keeps running around frantically, it is advisable to observe them closely for symptoms such as dizziness or loss of balance. If you notice any unusual appearance, consult with your vet for advice and medical assistance.