Have you ever looked at your hamster and wondered why they always seem so on edge? If you’ve ever heard your hamster make a high-pitched noise, you might be wondering if they’re screaming.
The causes of your hamster’s possible alarming behavior and whether or not they can genuinely scream will be discussed here.
Can Hamsters Scream?
Hamsters can be quite vocal. They may squeak when they are scared or excited, and they may even scream if they are in pain. However, hamsters typically only make these noises when they feel threatened. As long as they are well cared for, hamsters should not need to scream.
Hamsters don’t technically scream, but they can make a high-pitched noise that sounds a lot like a scream. Moreover, they lack the vocal cords necessary to produce a loud, sustained noise. Instead, their vocalizations are more like soft chirps or purrs.
This screaming-like noise is usually made when the hamster is scared or in pain. If you’ve ever heard your hamster make this noise, you know it can be quite chilling.
But don’t worry, it’s usually just the hamster’s way of expressing its fear or discomfort. In most cases, there’s no need to be alarmed. Just make sure to provide your furry friend with plenty of love and care.
Few exceptions
According to most veterinarians, hamsters cannot scream. However, there are a few exceptions. Some rare breeds of hamster, such as the Roborovski hamster, have been known to produce a sound that is similar to a scream.
In addition, baby hamsters may sometimes emit a faint scream when they are born. This is because their vocal cords are not fully developed and they have not yet learned how to control their vocalizations. However, once they reach adulthood, they should no longer be able to make this sound.
18 Reasons Your Hamster Looks Alarmed
While it’s true that hamsters can make some pretty strange noises, screaming is not one of them. So what’s causing your hamster to look so alarmed?
Here are 18 possible reasons why your hamster looks like they’re about to scream:
1. They’re startled by a sudden noise
Hamsters are very curious creatures, and they’re constantly exploring their surroundings. This means that they’re often on the lookout for potential danger. If your hamster is startled by a sudden noise, it’s natural for them to look alarmed.
2. They see something new
Since hamsters are always exploring, they’re bound to come across some new things from time to time. If your hamster sees something new, it’s not uncommon for them to stop and stare at it for a while. This is just their way of trying to figure out what it is.
3. They’re afraid of being hurt
Hamsters are very delicate creatures, so it’s natural for them to be afraid of being hurt. If your hamster looks alarmed, it could be because they’re worried that something is going to hurt them.
4. They’re not used to being handled
If you just got your hamster, they may not be used to being handled yet. It’s important to give them time to get comfortable with you before you try to pick them up. If you try to handle them too soon, they may look alarmed.
5. They’re in pain or discomfort
Unfortunately, hamsters can sometimes get hurt even if they’re being careful. If your hamster looks alarmed and is also acting strangely, it’s possible that they’re in pain. If so, you need to get them to the vet as soon as possible.
6. They’re having a seizure
In rare cases, hamsters may have seizures. If your hamster is having a seizure, it may look alarmed and its body may jerk or twitch. If you think your hamster is having a seizure, you should take them to the vet right away.
7. They’re about to give birth
If your female hamster is about to give birth, she may make grunting noises and look alarmed. This is normal and nothing to worry about.
8. They’re sick or injured
If your hamster looks alarmed and is also acting strangely, it’s possible that they’re sick or injured.
9. They’re not getting enough exercise
Hamsters are active creatures, and they need to get plenty of exercises to stay healthy. If your hamster isn’t getting enough exercise, it may look alarmed. Make sure to provide them with a wheel or other toys so they can stay active.
10. They’re hungry
If your hamster looks alarmed, it could be because they’re hungry. Make sure to provide them with a nutritious diet and plenty of fresh water.
11. They’re thirsty
Just like humans, hamsters need to stay hydrated. If your hamster looks alarmed, it could be because they’re thirsty. Make sure to provide them with fresh water at all times.
12. They’re stressed
Hamsters can get stressed out just like humans can. If your hamster looks alarmed, it could be because they’re feeling overwhelmed. Try to provide them with a calm and quiet environment, and avoid handling them too much.
13. They’re very excited
In some cases, hamsters may look alarmed because they’re very excited. This is usually nothing to worry about and is just their way of expressing themselves.
14. They’re trying to warn you of danger
In some cases, hamsters may look alarmed because they’re trying to warn you of danger. Typically, this is nothing to be concerned about because he is just feeling threatened.
15. They’re mating
If your hamsters are mating, the female may look alarmed. This is normal and nothing to worry about. Both, male and female hamsters will let out loud cries during this time, which can be heard from several feet away. While it may be disturbing to hear, it is perfectly normal behavior for hamsters during mating season.
16. They feel hot
Female hamsters may look alarmed when they’re in heat. This is normal and nothing to worry about. They are just trying to cool down.
17. They’re dying
In some cases, hamsters may look alarmed because they’re dying. If this is the case, there is unfortunately nothing you can do. If you think he is suffering too much, you should take him to the veterinarian so he can be euthanized.
18. They’re defending their territory
Hamsters may grunt, growl, or even scream when another animal enters their territory. This behavior is most commonly seen in wild hamsters, but pet hamsters may also exhibit these behaviors if they feel threatened.
In general, hamsters will only make these kinds of sounds when they feel like their safety is at risk. So, if you see your hamster making any of these noises, it’s best to give them some space and let them calm down.
Final thoughts
Hamsters may squeak when they are scared or excited, and they may even scream if they are in pain. However, hamsters typically only make this kind of noise when they feel threatened or defensive.
They are wonderful creatures, and it’s important to do everything we can to keep them healthy and happy.
If your hamster looks alarmed, take the time to figure out what might be causing the problem.
With a little bit of investigation, you should be able to help your furry friend feel better in no time. As long as they are well cared for, hamsters should not need to scream.
