| Body Language |
Meaning |
| Ears folded back, eyes half closed |
Your hamster has just woken up and is still sleepy. It is best not to take out your hamster out of its cage until it has woken up fully, as it will be more prone to nip |
| Filling cheek pouches with food, bedding, etc. |
If your hamster is out of its cage, it sees a need to collect the material or food to bring for its home; for example, it may feel that it has a shortage of food in its hoard, or that its bed is too thin. If your hamster is in its cage while it does this, it is simply moving things around to suit its taste or need. |
| Gnawing on bars of cage |
A sign that your hamster is stressed, bored, or has nothing else to gnaw on. Be sure that your hamster has a gnawing log to gnaw on. If it does, the cage may be to small for your hamster, or your hamster is bored; add some interesting toys into the cage; if your hamster continues to gnaw, consider buying a larger cage. |
| Grooming |
This is the way your hamster keeps itself clean. A normal hamster will groom itself several times a day, usually after a vigorous exercise or after waking up. |
| Running, stopping to groom every so often |
This is a sign that your hamster is anxious or flustered; this isn't necessarily a bad thing, although you should be sure that your hamster is not stressed. |
| Squeaking |
Your hamster is frustrated, angry, or hurting; it is best to return your hamster to its cage. Check to see if your hamster shows any sign of illness. |
| Up on hind paws, ears forward, motionless |
Your hamster has heard or seen something sudden or of interest; it is standing on its hind legs to see and hear better. |
| Yawning/Stretching |
A sign of happiness, comfort, or well-being; you will usually see your hamster do this just after it has woken up. |
