It is strange and concerning to see your hamster shaking in his sleep. It is natural to wonder what might be causing this behavior and whether you should intervene.
So, what does hamster shaking in their sleep mean? Are they distressed? And what can you do about it?
We will delve into what you need to know about hamsters shaking in their sleep and what you can do about it.
Why is my hamster shaking in his sleep?
A hamster shaking in his sleep happens due to dreaming, temperature regulation, stress or fear, age-related tremors, and underlying health problems. It is not uncommon for for a hamster to shake in their sleep, and in most cases, the behavior is not a cause for concern, however, it can also be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
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Reasons for hamster shaking in his sleep
There are different reasons for a hamster shaking in his sleep, but it is important to note that every hamster is different and what may cause one hamster to shake in its sleep may not be the same for another.
Also, not all hamsters shake in their sleep, but some do.
Hamster shaking in sleep occurs due to:
Dreaming
Dreaming and twitching in hamsters, as in many animals, are closely related and can lead to small, involuntary movements or shaking during sleep.
While the exact details of hamster dreams are not fully understood, there are several reasons why they may experience twitching and shaking while dreaming:
One of the reasons is during sleep, hamsters, like other mammals, go through the rapid eye movement (REM) phase, where the brain is highly active.
This dream phase may lead to involuntary muscle twitches or shakes which are usually harmless and considered a natural part of their sleep cycle.
These movements are usually random and are not a sign of any underlying health issues. In fact, they may indicate that your hamster is experiencing a deep, restorative sleep.
Temperature regulation
Hamsters are small animals, and their bodies are sensitive to temperature changes. When they sleep, they may experience temperature fluctuations in their environment.
Temperature fluctuations can occur in their sleeping area due to factors like drafts, variations in room temperature, or even their bedding material’s heat retention capabilities.
When hamsters or any other animal feels cold, their bodies may initiate a shivering response. Shivering is a rapid contraction and relaxation of muscles, which generates heat.
By shivering, a hamster can increase their body temperature, helping them stay warm and comfortable.
Shaking or trembling during sleep can be one such mechanism to help them regulate their body temperature, although it’s not exclusive to sleep and can occur when they’re awake as well.
Stress or fear
A hamster may also shake in its sleep due to stress or fear. Hamsters, like many animals, can experience emotions such as fear or anxiety, even during their sleep. They can be easily startled or stressed, even while sleeping.
Dreams that evoke strong emotions can lead to physical responses, including trembling or shaking. These responses may be similar to the way humans can experience emotional reactions during dreams.
If your hamster is having a particularly vivid or anxious dream, it may shake as a response to perceived threats.
Even when asleep, a hamster may be affected by underlying stressors or anxieties in their living environment.
If your hamster is experiencing chronic stress due to factors like loud noises, frequent disturbances, or incompatible cage mates, this stress can manifest in various ways, including during sleep.
Related: Why is my hamster so lazy?
Age-related tremors
Just like humans, hamsters can develop age-related conditions that cause them to experience tremors or shaking during sleep. This is more common in elderly hamsters.
Like any aging creature, hamsters can develop degenerative conditions or diseases that affect their neuromuscular system.
Conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases or arthritis can lead to muscle tremors, which may be more pronounced during sleep.
Older hamsters may also simply experience tremors or shaking during sleep due to natural aging processes. This is not uncommon and may not be a cause for concern if your hamster is otherwise healthy and active.
As hamsters age, they may experience muscle weakness and loss of muscle tone, which can result in tremors or shaking. This weakening of muscles can affect their ability to maintain complete stillness during sleep.
Older hamsters may experience changes in their sleep patterns and sleep quality. Poor sleep quality can make them more susceptible to muscle twitches or tremors during sleep, similar to how some older humans may experience more restless sleep.
Age-related tremors or shaking can be a natural part of the aging process for hamsters and while it can be concerning to observe, it’s not always indicative of a severe health issue.
However, if your aging hamster’s shaking is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as changes in appetite, mobility issues, or signs of discomfort, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.
Underlying health problems
While less common, there are instances where hamsters may shake in their sleep due to underlying health problems.
Certain neurological disorders or conditions can affect a hamster’s muscle control and coordination. These disorders may become more apparent during sleep, leading to involuntary muscle movements, including shaking or twitching.
Examples of such conditions include seizures, ataxia, or brain tumors.
If your hamster is experiencing pain or discomfort due to an injury, illness, or other health issue, it may manifest in muscle tremors or shaking during sleep. The discomfort can disrupt their sleep and result in involuntary movements.
Hamsters that are on medication for underlying health conditions may experience side effects that affect their muscle control or sleep patterns. These side effects could potentially lead to shaking during sleep.
Related: Why do hamsters get bald spots? (Here’s why)
Do hamsters shake when they sleep?
Yes, most hamsters can have small movements and shake while they sleep, which is normal behavior and not a cause for concern. These movements are typically random and may include twitching, trembling, or even minor jerks of their limbs.
However, if you notice other concerning symptoms in your hamster, such as persistent shaking, changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or signs of illness, it’s advisable to consult your veterinarian.
These could be indications of underlying health problems that require medical attention.
Sleep twitching vs. seizures
How can you differentiate whether your hamster is experiencing sleep twitching or a seizure? There is a difference between the two.
Sleep twitching typically occurs when a hamster is in a state of sleep, particularly during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase. These movements are often seen as brief, sporadic twitches or shivers.
Also during sleep twitching, hamsters generally show relaxed muscle tone in their limbs and body. Their movements are usually minor and don’t involve stiffening or rigidity of the body.
A hamster experiencing sleep twitching is unaware of their surroundings and is not responsive to external stimuli. They are in a deep sleep and may not wake up easily during these episodes.
Sleep twitching is a also common occurrence during sleep, and many hamsters exhibit these movements from time to time and it’s a normal part of their sleep cycle.
On the other hand, hamster seizures can occur at any time, whether a hamster is awake or asleep. They are not restricted to any specific sleep phase.
During seizures, hamsters often have more pronounced and uncontrolled muscle activity. This can include convulsions, jerking movements, and, in some cases, stiffness or rigidity of the body.
Hamsters experiencing seizures are also usually unaware of their surroundings and may appear disoriented, confused, or agitated. Unlike sleep twitching, seizures are not a normal or healthy occurrence.
If your hamster experiences frequent or severe seizures, it is a cause for concern and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Overall, while sleep twitching is a normal part of a hamster’s sleep cycle and involves minor, involuntary muscle movements during sleep, seizures are abnormal and involve more pronounced, uncontrolled muscle activity.
See also: Why is my hamster wobbling and falling over? (Explained)
What to do when your hamster is shaking his sleep
If you observe your hamster shaking while it’s asleep, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your pet’s well-being:
Observe closely
First, make sure you’re accurately identifying the shaking or trembling. Sometimes, hamsters can have mild movements during sleep that are entirely normal, like twitching or adjusting their position.
Observe your hamster closely to determine the nature and duration of these movements.
Keep a record of when you notice your hamster shaking during sleep, the frequency of the episodes, and any other relevant observations.
This information can be valuable when you discuss the issue with your veterinarian.
Check their environment
Ensure that your hamster’s cage is in a stable and suitable environment. Keep the room at an appropriate temperature, away from drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations, as temperature changes can affect a hamster’s sleep.
Make sure their cage is clean and comfortable with proper bedding.
Reduce stressors
Hamsters are sensitive creatures, and stress can affect their sleep patterns.
Try to minimize loud noises, disturbances, or sudden changes in their environment, especially during their active hours.
Providing a peaceful and quiet environment can help reduce stress-related movements.
Consult a veterinarian
If the shaking appears to be more severe, and persistent, or if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or lethargy, it’s important to consult a veterinarian who specializes in small animals.
These could be signs of underlying health issues that need professional attention.
Regular check-ups
To ensure your hamster’s overall well-being, schedule regular check-ups with an experienced veterinarian who is knowledgeable about small animals.
Regular veterinary visits can help catch any underlying health problems early.
Occasional, minor movements during sleep are often normal for hamsters. However, if you have any doubts about your hamster’s health or if the shaking appears to be unusual or severe, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional veterinary advice.
Prompt attention to your hamster’s well-being can make a significant difference in their quality of life.
What not to do
When you observe your hamster shaking while in its sleep or exhibiting unusual behaviors, there are certain actions you should avoid to ensure the well-being of your pet. This includes:
Don’t panic: While it’s natural to feel concerned when you notice something unusual in your hamster’s behavior, try not to panic. Remain calm and observant to accurately assess the situation.
Don’t disturb their sleep: If your hamster is asleep, avoid unnecessary disturbances. Resist the urge to wake them up or handle them during their sleep, as this can cause stress.
Don’t delay veterinary care: If your hamster’s shaking persists or if is accompanied by concerning symptoms it could be due to an underlying health issue.
Do not delay seeking veterinary care. Timely professional assessment and treatment are essential for your hamster’s well-being.
Takeaway: Hamster shaking in his sleep
Observing your hamster shaking in its sleep can be a source of concern. In many cases, these shakes are entirely normal and may be a sign of a healthy sleep cycle. However, it can also be due to an underlying health condition.
Understanding the potential causes, such as dreaming, temperature regulation, stress, age-related tremors, or underlying health issues, is important.
Avoid panicking, refrain from disturbing your hamster’s sleep unnecessarily, and resist the temptation to self-diagnose or administer treatments without professional guidance.
Instead, closely monitor your hamster, maintain a suitable environment, and consult your veterinarian.
By prioritizing your hamster’s well-being, seeking timely veterinary care when needed, and providing a comfortable and stress-free living environment, you can help ensure a happy and healthy life for your hamster.