A common caged pet that is frequently a child's first pet is the hamster, but what effects does a hamster's sleep cycle have on its owners? Furthermore, how can you determine whether a hamster's sleep schedule was typical in the first place? You may determine whether a hamster is the ideal pet for you by knowing the responses to these questions. You can also use the information to check your hamster's habitat and health according to its sleep cycle.
How long do hamsters sleep for?
While humans only sleep once a day, hamsters possess polyphasic sleep-wake rhythms, meaning they normally sleep for 12–14 hours a day. This indicates that they sleep for longer periods of time during the day, thus their 12–14 hours of sleep will be divided into smaller chunks.
Cycle of Hamster Sleeping
The sleep cycle of hamsters is well studied because it has been the focus of much circadian rhythm sleep research, particularly those involving Syrian or golden hamsters. Research indicates that hamsters spend almost the same length of time as humans do during the rapid eye motion (REM) phase of sleep, which accounts for up to 25% of human sleep. Although studies have been done, it is unknown if hamsters dream similarly to humans. The REM period of sleep is commonly recognised as the time when people dream. However, many people believe that if you notice a hamster twitching its eyes or paws slightly, it could be an indication of dreaming and other brain activity. If you notice these movements when your hamster is sleeping, don't freak out.
The fact that hamsters are nocturnal creatures in captivity is another crucial fact about their sleep schedule. This indicates that they behave contrary to what most people do: being active at night or sleeping throughout the day. Naturally, some people work at night; therefore, just like hamsters, they sleep during daylight hours. However, the majority of hamster owners find that their pets are most active when they are soundly resting in their beds.
How Do You Proceed If Your Hamster Is Sleeping More Frequently?
Your hamster can be unwell or in hibernation if it is sleeping longer than normal. If the hamster is kept in a frigid setting where the temperature regularly falls below fifty degrees, hibernation may ensue. Although most houses don't get this chilly, your hamster's cage can be colder than the rest of the house if it's close to an exterior wall with inadequate insulation or a drafty door or window. Before assuming your hamster is ill, make sure it is warm enough.
There's a significant likelihood your hamster is unwell if its cage is consistently above fifty degrees and it appears to be sleeping more than normal. Hamsters frequently have respiratory and intestinal problems, so if yours doesn't feel well, it can be lethargic or sleep a lot. If you believe your hamster is ill, you should take it to the vet.
Your hamster can be growing older or sleeping more if its cage is consistently over 50 degrees and it isn't sick. Older hamsters sleep more frequently because they do not sleep as deeply and intensely as younger hamsters. This is very typical and should not raise any red flags.
Is it OK to wake up your hamster?
It may become necessary to wake the pet from its sleep, and you may unintentionally wake it from a nap, as hamsters can sleep up to 14 hours a day. If at all possible, keep your hamster from being startled, as this may result in bites and disrupt its regular sleep-wake cycle. Regular occurrences of this could stress the hamster and lead to other health problems. It's preferable to try and connect with your hamster solely while it's already awake instead of trying to get it to adhere to your schedule, unless you need to give it medication or do something else that requires prompt attention.
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