Why is my hamster screaming?

Knowing how to interpret the cries and other squeaks of our pets is not an easy task. Although some behaviors are not very ambiguous and can guide us on the moods of our furry companions, it is not always easy to adopt the right reaction to their attitude. So when it’s a hamster, the difficulty is even greater. Here are a few tips on how to interpret your little rodent’s cries.

The different types of hamster calls

If your hamster makes small cries, light to your ear, but powerful for its size, it is likely that it is either afraid (to be analyzed according to the context), or that it is suffering. In this case, it can be useful to present him to a veterinarian.

On the other hand, if a hamster is making little growls or fires like a cat, it is sending you threatening signals. In this case, it’s best to leave it alone, or if it’s in the presence of other individuals, separate them.

Small, dry, repetitive squeaks can express joy, so there’s no need to worry.

When you identify squeaks, they can have several meanings: in the baby hamster, it’s simply that he asks for the presence of his parents. In the adult, it is a normal cry that he pushes notably when he is in search of food. They can then occur throughout the day. Once they’re grown, if they continue to squeak, you should also keep an eye on them to make sure they’re not trying to express their pain.

Another noise that is easy to recognize is the chattering of teeth. It usually occurs when the hamster is confronted with other individuals of its species. This is a way for them to intimidate their peers, and in these cases it is best to isolate your hamster or risk an imminent fight.

A simple grunt can simply be used to express displeasure, just as all other animals do.

How to interpret these cries?

These behaviors should be monitored, and only become so worrisome if they continue over time. In case of doubt, do not hesitate to consult a specialist, hamsters being fragile animals and especially very cardiac. Take care of them so that they feel comfortable in their environment, and do not confront them with anything that could cause them to become very stressed.

Other factors combined with certain cries may indeed suggest that your hamster is suffering: for example, an animal that never uses its wheel and seems apathetic probably has a health problem. The same goes for rodents that tend to scratch too much, quickly, and outside the areas where their scent glands are located. They may be affected by fungus or parasites and therefore require a visit to the vet.

Similarly, a hamster that tends to gnaw on the bars of its cage is a hamster that probably doesn’t have what it needs to make its teeth. This can be a real handicap if he can’t manage to file them in his natural environment. Take care to provide him with the necessary accessories to avoid consequences for your companion.

Also, an apathetic hamster is not necessarily unhealthy; they may take some time to get used to their space, and sometimes just need peace and quiet and low lighting.

So take the time to analyze your pet’s cries and behavior to determine the right response, and be aware that hamsters are still small, fragile pets.