Syrian ears

[HamsterCrazy1]

New hammy owner here! I got a male Syrian last night. He is young, maybe 2-3 months? I'm not really sure. His ears are folded back, and I've been looking at pics, such as the one at the top of the Hamster Central website, and I haven't noticed that his ears have ever been "forward" like that.. always laid back. Is it because he's young? I'm sure I sound really dumb right now, but just wondering. Thank You!!

P.S. - Any tips for new hamster owners are greatly appreciated!!

[AprilPearl]

Ears laid back is a sign of being nervous, generally. They also fold them down when asleep so they are usually flat until a hamster is fully awake. I’d say given you just got him that your little boy is still a bit scared from the move (as is to be expected) and needs some time to settle in and gain his confidence.

[HamsterCrazy1]

Thank You!!

[AprilPearl]

Just seen that you made another thread about wet tail. I don't have any experience with that so can't help you except to recommend going to the vets. However, I should say that folded down ears can also be a sign of illness.

[cypher]

As April said having the ears laid flat is a sign of nervousness, it can also indicate health problems but that's probably not the case, just that he's new & a bit scared.
Make sure he feels safe in his cage/bin with some nice hideouts, a cardboard box with the base cut out will make a good temporary house if you don't have one yet & you can use things like bendy bridges to fill some of the space if it's too open.

[Drago]

Like everyone has said, flattened ears are a sign of nervousness or discomfort. However, when a Syrian first wakes up, their ears will often be folded up. This is nothing to worry about, but there is a notable difference in them flattening their ears in fear and their ears naturally folding. I wouldn't worry over it, just try and keep him as comfortable as possible

[HamsterCrazy1]

Thank You!! I have two different hideout houses as well as lots of toilet paper for him to burrow in and chew up. Currently, he's happily curled up in the corner under a bunch of tp