Hamster going feral?

Jennyb · 05-21-2018, 12:53 PM

We got a new hamster. We left him in his cage for three days before socialising him and then we took our time - all textbook stuff. Then, after a couple of weeks, the kids bought him a new cage with tubes to run in and bigger than the old cage. We put in his little house and existing bedding to ensure a smooth move. Then, he moved all his bedding into the tube and has basically stayed there!! He comes out but as soon as he sees anyone he races back into his tubes. Should I block the tubes up to encourage him to spend more time out and about? I don’t want to be cruel but he literally hardly ever comes out.

cookietiger · 05-21-2018, 01:11 PM

Yes. I've heard many people say that when a hamster becomes slightly obsessed with their tunnels to remove them/ block them as it isn't too good. Removing the tunnels should encourage him to be braver and hide less I think.

dreamtree1234 · 05-21-2018, 02:16 PM

I totally agree with what Cookietiger said. Blocking/removing the tubes will encourage him to be more active in his cage and also more sociable with you, too.

Jennyb · 05-21-2018, 02:47 PM

I’ve removed the main tube and he’s trying to find it - bit heartbreaking. But at least he’s busy and not just hiding. He’s making a new bed and has stashed his food so I’m hoping he’s not too upset.

dreamtree1234 · 05-21-2018, 09:17 PM

I'm sure he will adjust to this change and most likely be more confident and active now.

IamKat · 05-23-2018, 06:35 AM

I totally agree with what the others have said, it's not good for them to sleep in the tubes! some hammies do this, it can make them feel safe, but they end up peeing in there and there isn't a lot of ventilation and it's just not good. I find when you remove them they can get a bit upset initially, but soon settle, and you may notice after a few days an improvement in behaviour.

More space is a good thing for sure, they need a lot more space than people often realise, but changes can be difficult and so it might be a week or so before he becomes settled in his new environment. But don't worry - he will. Just try to avoid moving stuff about for a while and instead of big cage cleans just spot clean where you can. Having all his stuff smell like him can help him feel more comfortable. Good luck and let us know how he gets on

Rads · 05-23-2018, 08:42 AM

Blocking the tubes or taking them away is a good thing all our old hamsters have tried it in the past and after a month of no access to the tubes they are normally fine with being allowed access again, I think disassociation with the tubes as a sleeping place has been replaced with more normal behaviour.