Can Hamsters Have A Tantrum?

Womblehands · 12-27-2010, 05:53 AM

I've noticed lately that after Peanut has his play time, which usually involves his sand pit, play pen, floor time and climbing the stairs.. when i pick him up to put him back in his cage after giving him a kiss he will kick his legs about and wiggle like crazy, I put him in his cage and he will chatter his teeth for a few secs.. i normally then give him a treat to pacify him..He has anytime between half hour to an hour every night, And once a week he goes upstairs on the bed..so my question is can hamsters recognise actions linking to activity..( a kiss on the head means he's going back into his cage) and if so can this cause tantrums.. are hamsters really that clever?

Barbie · 12-27-2010, 06:15 AM

I guess that with a certain routine the hamster will learn that being picked up means back to the cage. The chattering mostly is a sign of fear or aggression, so I suppose that shows his dislike of being put back. What size is his cage if I may ask? Perhaps it has too little space for him and the time out is too short to satisfy his need for exercise?

louisbs · 12-27-2010, 06:42 AM

Well the ham has learnt that your hand is not a threat.. why cant he learn that a kiss means back in the cage

Peanut must realllly enjoy play time and wants to go back in his own time lol

Katty_Sheldon · 12-27-2010, 09:28 AM

Well mine learned every time that me approaching the cage means cuddles and snacks so they come over to the door. Also my hamster learned that if he bites cage enough, he will get some cuddles and a treat (he has me trained). I think they can totally relate actions and stuff together.

Womblehands · 12-27-2010, 10:32 AM

maybe i'll try him out for longer, He's just started coming out at 11-12 at night so maybe this is why he's getting grouchy..his cage isnt massive but he has 2 playhouses, an igloo, hanging tube, wooden bridge, sputnik, coconut house, his comfort wheel. I always worry i'll tire him out as he's getting on a bit now at 15mnths..