Welcome to our ultimate guide on hamster training! In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hamsters and how to train them. We’ll also answer the question “can hamsters play dead?”
Hamsters are little, snarling rodents that make popular pets. They’re usually very active and playful, but can also they be trained to do tricks?
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about training your hamster!
Can hamsters play dead?
It’s very unlikely. Playing dead is not something that comes naturally to them. Hamsters in the wild would never need to play dead. Playing dead requires a level of trust and cooperativeness that may be beyond the capabilities of most hamsters.
So, while you might be able to teach your hamster to play dead, it’s probably not worth the effort.
Some people think that hamsters can play dead, but this isn’t true.
After all, it seems like a relatively simple trick and it would be pretty cute to see your little hamster flopping around on its back.
Hamsters are physically unable to play dead because they lack the ability to control their own movements and body temperature.
However, there are a few reasons why your hamster might “play dead.”
For example, if you suddenly reach into the cage to grab your hamster, he may freeze in fear and appear to be dead.
Additionally, elderly or sick hamsters may sometimes lie still for extended periods of time, appearing to be dead.
However, in these cases, the hamster is actually just resting or sleeping.
So, while hamsters cannot intentionally play dead, there are a few scenarios in which they might accidentally give this impression.
Playing dead is just a temporary strategy that hamsters use to get out of a difficult situation.
For example, if a hamster is being chased by a predator, it may play dead in order to make the predator lose interest.
But, once the danger has passed, they quickly resume their normal activities.
Understanding hamsters behavior
As we mentioned before, one thing hamsters cannot do is play dead.
Hamsters are instinctually wired to survive.
When faced with a predator, their natural reaction is to run away and hide.
Playing dead would go against this instinct, and it could put the hamster in danger.
Though they are often sleepy creatures, they do not have the ability to enter a state of dormancy or hibernation like some other animals.
This means that if a hamster appears to be sleeping deeply, it is likely just taking a nap.
Similarly, if a hamster is lying still for an extended period of time, it is probably just resting.
In both cases, the best thing to do is to leave the hamster alone and let it wake up on its own.
Trying to disturb a sleeping or resting hamster can unnecessarily stress the animal and cause it to become agitated.
Can hamsters be trained
Generally speaking, due to their small size and fragility, hamsters are not well suited for playing interactive games with humans.
Instead, they generally prefer to play alone or with other hamsters.
Hamsters are also known to be timid creatures and may become frightened if they are suddenly disturbed or confronted with loud noises.
For these reasons, it is generally not a good idea to try and teach a hamster tricks or to play games that involve scaring them.
Doing so could potentially cause the hamster considerable stress, which could lead to health problems down the road.
Tips for training your hamster
Here are some tips for training your hamster:
- Start by getting your hamster used to being handled. Gently pick them up and hold them for short periods.
- When your hamster is comfortable being held, start working on simple tricks like “sit” or “stand.”
- Reward your hamster with treats when they perform a trick successfully.
- Be patient and keep practicing! Hamsters are intelligent creatures and can learn quickly if given the chance.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to training your hamster in no time!
Special warning
Hamsters are relatively fragile creatures, and their bones are easily broken. As a result, they should be handled with care and never be allowed to jump from heights.
Hamsters are also prone to heart disease, which can be exacerbated by stress.
For these reasons, it is important to avoid rough handling, scaring, or surprising your hamster, while you are training him.
If you notice your hamster acting strangely or appearing to be in distress, stop the training activity and contact a veterinarian for advice.
Safe tricks for hamsters
Try teaching him to come when called, to jump through a hoop, or to crawl into your hand.
You can also teach him to follow a simple obstacle course.
Start by creating a path with tunnel-like objects for him to crawl through.
As he gets more comfortable with the course, you can add in new elements, like ramps and tunnels of different sizes.
All of these are fun tricks that won’t put your hamster’s health at risk.
Final thoughts
Hamsters are small, easily startled rodents that make popular pets.
Another appealing thing about hamsters is that they are playful and active.
One common question about these furry little creatures is whether they are intelligent enough to learn tricks, like playing dead.
Unfortunately, hamsters cannot intentionally play dead on commands like some other animals, such as dogs or cats.
Hamsters lack the intelligence and coordination necessary for this trick.
Any instances of hamsters appearing to play dead are usually the result of being scared or feeling threatened.
Playing dead is a very stressful experience for hamsters. It puts their bodies into a state of complete relaxation, which can be quite dangerous if they are not in a safe and comfortable environment.
For these reasons, it is best to avoid teaching your hamster this trick.
There are other simple tricks you can teach your hamster, like “sit” or “stand”. Those are much safer and just as entertaining.
Hamsters are intelligent creatures and can learn quickly if given the chance.
With a little patience and practice, and some delicious rewards, you’ll be able to train your hamster in no time!
