Singapore’s weather is hot, mainly due to its location near the equator and its tropical country status. Other factors of global warming… Let’s see how we can keep our hamster cool.
One of my concerns for Bao Bao, my pet hamster, was keeping him calm during the day while I was at work. I do not turn on the air conditioning while we are away because it can get expensive, and usually when we are home, we only turn it on in the evenings, but I ensure the windows are open for good ventilation.
Where Is the Best Place To Put a Hamster Cage?
To ensure your hamster’s well-being, carefully select the perfect location for their cage within your home. Opt for a spot that avoids direct exposure to sunlight and maintains a stable temperature. Hamsters are sensitive to abrupt temperature fluctuations, so keeping them away from air conditioning units or vents is essential. Additionally, choose a room with consistent, timed lighting, as hamsters can be disturbed by bright sunlight.
Providing a Comfy Ceramic Hideout for Your Hamster Cool in Hot Weather
Through trial and error, I provided my hammy Bao Bao with a few hideouts made out of ceramic. Bao Bao, the first hamster I ever owned, showed me that hamsters can outgrow hideouts. The one I purchased for him as a baby became too small, and he had to twist himself just to fit in.
As the name suggests, hideouts are places for a hamster to seek refuge and feel secure. For domestic hamsters, hideouts can also give them a cooling spot to rest in, especially during hot weather. Here are a few examples of ceramic hideouts I purchased for Bao Bao. I was amazed to find that even hamsters have their own routine; they go to different hideouts at the exact same time each day.
BUCATSTATE Ceramic Castle Hamster Hideout, Bao Bao loves to spend evenings in this hideout.
Bucatstate Mushroom Ceramic Hideout, Bao Bao, has outgrown this hideout a little. He usually just snacks there or takes short afternoon naps.
In this Wild Sanko Cool Cube, Bao Bao enjoys resting his head on this cube during hot days.
For a more extensive review of the hideout watch, Reviewed by Bao Bao.
Is it Fine to Give My Hamster Cold Fruits and Vegetables?
I meticulously check which foods are safe for my dwarf hamster using reliable sources. Given their susceptibility to diabetes, I limit sweet treats and fruits for my pet. I store washed fruits and vegetables in the fridge and offer them to Bao Bao, ensuring they’re not too frozen as hamsters are sensitive to sudden temperature changes. This helps keep Bao Bao cool on hot days.
Hamster Cooling Marble Slab
Bao Bao enjoys having a marble slab in his home. It is smooth and cool, making it a perfect place for him to rest on hot afternoons. The slab is also a plate for Bao Bao’s vegetables and fruits. It has become a habit for him to approach the slab when he wants treats, even politely asking for them when the slab is empty.
Using Towels To Keep Your Hamster Cage Cool
Another way I keep Bao Bao cool is by adding a towel chilled in the freezer and placing it near his cage. This simple trick helps to lower the temperature around him and provides some relief from the heat. However, it’s important to be cautious and watch out for condensation that may occur in the cage. Excessive condensation can make your hamster ill, so make sure the towel is close but not too close so it becomes too cold for your furry friend.
Another great idea is to freeze and wrap a water bottle in a thin cloth or towel. Once it’s sufficiently chilled, place it inside the cage for your hamster to lean against or cuddle up to. This can help regulate their body temperature and relieve the sweltering heat.
Providing plenty of fresh, cool water for your hamster to drink is equally important. Check their water bottle regularly to ensure it’s not empty or the spout isn’t blocked.
Lastly, keep an eye on your hamster’s behaviour during hot weather. If you notice any signs of distress, such as heavy panting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it’s essential to take immediate action. Contacting a veterinarian specializing in small animals is the best course of action to ensure the well-being of your furry friend.
Those are my tips for keeping your hamster cool for now. Stay tuned for more interesting posts and learn how to keep your little companion comfortable during warm summers!