There are many ways your hamster is trying to tell you something.
You may have noticed that your hamster has been filling his tube with bedding recently and you are starting to feel concerned.
In this post, we will explain this behavior. Additionally, we will give you some tips on how to properly care for your hamster.
Why is my hamster filling his tube with bedding?
Your hamster doesn’t show any kind of sign of illness he can be just creating a cache, which is like a hidden stash of food or he simply enjoys the process of gathering and arranging materials or he can also be building his sleeping nest using the bedding.
Hamsters are natural hoarders. In the wild, they store food and supplies to help them survive the winter.
Your hamster is probably doing the same thing, filling his tube with bedding in order to create a cozy nest.
Unfortunately, this behavior can sometimes lead to problems. If your hamster packs his tube too full, he may have difficulty getting in and out.
This can lead to isolation and stress, which can in turn make your hamster sick.
If you notice that your hamster’s tube is becoming overly full, simply remove some of the bedding and throw it away.
Your hamster will still have plenty of material to work with, and he’ll be able to come and go as he pleases.
Hamster natural behavior
One of the most common reasons why hamsters fill their tubes with bedding is because they’re bored. If your hamster isn’t getting enough stimulation, he might start to see his tube as a fun project.
To keep your hamster from getting bored, make sure to give him plenty of toys and playtime outside of his cage. You can also try adding additional levels to his cage to give him more space to explore.
Another reason why your hamster may be filling his tube with bedding is that he’s trying to make a nest.
This is especially common during the winter months when hamsters are looking for a cozy place to hibernate.
If you think this is the reason why your hamster is filling his tube with bedding, try giving him extra bedding material to help him build his nest or provide him with some extra nesting material, such as toilet paper rolls or tissues.
When to be concerned
In some cases, filling a tube with bedding can be a sign of illness. If your hamster is suddenly filling his tube with bedding and seems lethargic or unwell, it’s best to take him to the vet.
This behavior could be a sign of something serious, like pneumonia or a respiratory infection.
If you’re not sure why your hamster is filling his tube with bedding, the best thing to do is to consult with a vet. They’ll be able to help you figure out the cause of the behavior and recommend the best course of action.
Hamster bedding tips
Before you set up your hamster’s home, you’ll need to choose the right bedding.
Not all beddings are created equal, and some can even be dangerous for your pet.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the best bedding for your hamster.
The most important thing to look for in a bedding is that it’s safe for your hamster to consume. Some beddings, like cedar shavings, can be toxic if your hamster eats them.
As a general rule, avoid any bedding made from softwoods like pine and cedar. Likewise, avoid any bedding that contains perfumes or other chemicals.
The best beddings for hamsters are made from hardwoods like aspen or kiln-dried pine. These woods are safe for your hamster to consume, and they’re also absorbent and dust-free.
Another thing to consider is whether you want natural bedding or synthetic one.
Natural beddings, like carefresh, are made from paper products and are biodegradable.
Synthetic beddings, like fleece liners, are made from polyester and other synthetic materials. There are pros and cons to both types of bedding.
Natural beddings are more absorbent, but they can also be more expensive.
Synthetic beddings may not be as absorbent, but they’re usually cheaper and easier to clean.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of bedding is best for your hamster’s needs.
Finally, you’ll need to decide how much bedding to get. A good rule of thumb is to start with at least 2 inches of bedding. This will give your hamster enough material to burrow and nest in.
If you notice that your hamster is running out of bedding, or if the bedding is getting dirty quickly, you can always add more.
Choosing the right bedding for your hamster doesn’t have to be difficult.
Just make sure the bedding is safe for your pet to consume, and choose an absorbent material that will suit your hamster’s needs.
With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect bedding for your furry friend.
Types of bedding
Your hamster needs a soft, comfortable place to sleep, and there are a variety of bedding materials available to suit your pet’s needs.
One popular option is shredded paper, which is absorbent and will help keep your hamster’s cage clean.
However, paper bedding can be dusty, so it’s important to choose a brand that is low-dust or dust-free.
Another option is carefresh, a type of cellulose fiber that is soft and absorbent.
Carefresh is available in a variety of colors, and it’s also dust-free. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, consider using recycled newspaper bedding.
Newspaper is absorbent and biodegradable, but it can be messy and difficult to clean up.
Whatever type of bedding you choose, make sure to clean it regularly and replace it as needed.
Final thoughts
Some hamsters enjoy building nests, and filling a tube with bedding may be your hamster’s way of expressing his creative side.
Remember, it could be that your hamster is trying to tell you something. If you’ve recently changed the type or brand of bedding you’re using, your hamster may be trying to tell you that he doesn’t like it.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing bedding for your hamster, be sure to avoid anything that could hurt him, and choose an absorbent material to help keep his cage clean.
By stuffing his tube with bedding, your hamster is effectively giving you a message that something isn’t quite right.
Thanks for reading! I hope this helped.
