The main ways for hamsters to keep warm in winter mainly include using warm-keeping supplies, controlling the room temperature, providing high-calorie foods, and cleaning their cages regularly.
Using warm-keeping supplies: Providing enough cotton and wood shavings for hamsters is a basic measure for keeping them warm. It is recommended to use unscented materials to avoid irritating the hamsters' respiratory systems. Besides, you can use warm pads, small heating pads or self-heating patches to keep them warmer. However, be careful not to let the hamsters directly touch the heat sources to prevent burns.
Controlling the room temperature: Keeping the room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius is the key. If the room temperature is too low, you can use heaters or air conditioners to raise the temperature. But avoid using open flames for heating, as it may pose a danger to the hamsters.
Providing high-calorie foods: Hamsters need more energy to maintain their body temperature in winter. So you can provide high-protein and high-fat foods, such as mealworms, sunflower seeds, small dried shrimps and so on. Meanwhile, make sure there is an adequate water supply. You can use ceramic or glass containers to store food to ensure that the food is dry and fresh.
Cleaning the cages regularly: In winter, the excrement of hamsters may become dry and give off an unpleasant smell. So it is very important to clean their cages regularly. It is recommended to clean them at least once a week and replace the clean water and food.
Besides, it is also important to observe the behavior of hamsters. If you find that the hamsters show abnormal behaviors such as shivering, curling up or having a poor appetite, it may be caused by cold or discomfort. You need to take timely measures to provide more warm-keeping measures for the hamsters or seek the help of a veterinarian.
To help hamsters survive the winter safely, here are some practical warm-keeping tips:
Using warm pads and heating pads: Place warm pads or small heating pads at the bottom of the hamster cages, but control the temperature well and avoid direct contact with the hamsters.
Providing high-calorie foods: Such as mealworms, sunflower seeds, dried small shrimps and so on. But pay attention to the proper amount to avoid the hamsters getting too fat.
Keeping the environment warm: Place the hamster cages in warm and well-ventilated places indoors, away from direct drafts. You can use breathable blankets to cover the cages slightly to reduce the temperature difference between day and night.
Through these measures, it can effectively help hamsters stay warm and healthy in winter.