Golden Hamsters and Dwarf Hamsters generally thrive in temperatures between 68–82°F. Too cold or too hot can be harmful! In Taiwan, indoor summer temperatures can reach 90°F, while winters may drop to 61°F, which can cause discomfort or even health issues for hamsters. That’s why proper temperature control is so important.
Signs Your Hamster Is Too Cold
Curled up and not coming out
If your hamster stays balled up in its nest and doesn’t come out, it may be too cold outside the nest. The hamster may stuff the bedding and stay hidden.
Shivering
Cold hamsters may shiver to generate warmth. You can feel them trembling when held — much like humans.
Sneezing
When held close, you may hear faint “choo choo” sounds — small sneezes that indicate cold stress. This is easier to detect than other signs.
Torpor-like state with low activity and appetite
Extreme cold can push hamsters into a survival torpor — slow breathing, weak movement, and little interest in food. Even favorite snacks may be ignored.
Disorientation or confusion
If the hamster is walking in circles, leaning to one side, or randomly falling, this may mean brain damage from extreme cold — a serious and irreversible condition.
Further Reading >>> 5 Signs Your Hamster Is Cold & 6 Clever Ways to Keep Them Warm
Signs Your Hamster Is Too Hot
Panting or sticking out the tongue
Low responsiveness, decreased activity or appetite
Your hamster may no longer rush toward food or treats.
Lying flat or sticking to cool surfaces
They may sprawl on the floor or stay against metal plates to cool off.
Red skin
Flushed skin under the fur means the hamster is overheated and trying to release internal heat.
Wet belly
Not wet tail syndrome, but a slightly moist belly means sweating from high heat.
Signs of dehydration
Dry nose and mouth, dark or reduced urine output may indicate heat-related dehydration.
Disorientation or confusion
If the hamster moves in circles or seems uncoordinated, it could be signs of heatstroke and brain distress — which may be irreversible.
4 Ways to Keep Your Hamster’s Cage Cool
Basic Measures
Place the cage in a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight or balconies. Always provide fresh water. Use ceramic hideouts and minimize bedding that retains heat.
Fans
USB-powered fans are ideal — gentle and safe. Avoid strong airflow from regular fans as it may blow dust or stress the hamster.
Ice packs under the cage
Wrap frozen packs in a towel and place them beneath the cage to lower the temperature gradually. Avoid thin wrapping to prevent moisture buildup or overcooling.
Special metal cooling plates
Use cooling plates designed for small pets. Hamsters may rest on them to release heat. Avoid random metal sheets, which may contain hidden rust or oil residue.
4 Ways to Keep Your Hamster’s Cage Warm
Basic Measures
Even in winter, use a breathable cage. Place a thick blanket under the cage to insulate from cold floors. You can also hang a blanket over the cage (leave gaps for airflow). Provide lots of bedding for warmth and nesting.
Heat lamps or heating pads
Don’t place the heat source too close to your hamster. Focus on warming the entire environment. Use pet-safe products if possible.
Hand warmers under the cage
Wrap in a towel and place under the cage to provide steady warmth.
Auto-adjusting heating mats
Choose mats made for hamsters that automatically adjust temperature. Avoid cheap or low-quality products that may pose safety risks — reputable brands are better, even if slightly more expensive.
