My hamster runs constantly. Is this normal or a neurological problem?

It sounds like Buttercup is quite the energetic hamster. Some hamsters seem to have lots of energy and will spend many hours climbing, chewing, exploring their cage. Others will be lazy and sleep a lot. Hamsters are nocturnal so they are naturally more active at night. It may disrupt your sleep if you can hear him, but I am not worried about his activity level - this is normal.

Typically hamsters are nocturnal, meaning they are more active during the night than the day time. So this behavior is completely normal for Arwen. She may also be more active when you are not around so it may be hard to judge her activity level. It sounds like you have a perfect environment for her to live in with a lot of room and toys to keep her entertained. I wouldn’t be worried about her nocturnal behavior at this point. If she stops eating or her poop changes then you may want to take her in to be checked out by the vet. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!

Pompie is probably not as active as usual because of his new surroundings. Hamsters can be very prone to stress when their environment abruptly changes. He is most likely being more active when he is home alone and at night time because he feels safer. Since he is eating and drinking normally, I would not be too concerned. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

While it's unlikely that your hamster is contemplating the meaning of life when she stares off to space, it is possible that she may be ruminating on something, dozing or even snacking on a piece of food in her cheek. However if she is showing any other signs of confusion, circling, disorientation, etc that she doesn't snap out of if you get her attention, it may signal a problem and should be checked out. Otherwise, keeping her entertained with some new toys, a treat or some attention may help.

Although usually the opposite happens at this age, this could actually a bad sign, possibly a tumor affecting the brain or the hormonal system, or just him being very uncomfortable or in pain due to a disease. His age is very advanced, most hamsters do not make it to this age even in captivity, I would advise you to take him to the vet for a checkup ASAP.

It does not sound like Moxie really has a problem. She could be more active during the day because people are around more during the day. She also could be falling over more due to balance than an actual health issue. I think that I would continue to monitor moxie. If she is not eating, drinking or acting ill I would recommend taking her to a vet for an exam. Hope that helps

I am sorry that Snowy is hiding under the running wheel. This can be a normal behaviour if something has spooked her. However, it can also be a first sign of a sickness. I would monitor closey for signs of illness. This would include changes to appetite, energy levels, or any changes to her fecal movements. If you suspect she is ill I would take her to a veterinarian for a check-up. Best of luck and I hope Snowy is her normal self again soon.