When hamsters play dead, they usually show characteristics such as having a cold body, no breathing or heartbeat, lying on their backs with their bellies upward, stiff limbs, half-closed eyes, and no response to external stimuli. These characteristics make the hamsters look as if they were truly dead. However, there are still some differences upon careful observation. The noses of hamsters that are playing dead are usually pink, while the noses of dead hamsters will turn grayish-purple. The eyes of hamsters that are playing dead still look lively, while the eyes of dead hamsters will lose their luster. The bodies and paws of hamsters that are playing dead still have strength, while dead hamsters will be completely limp.
Reasons Why Hamsters Play Dead
Playing dead is an instinctive response for hamsters and is usually used when they encounter danger. When hamsters can't hide or run away, they will play dead to reduce oxygen consumption, lower their heart rate and blood pressure, thus increasing their chances of survival. Besides, hamsters may also play dead when they are frightened or nervous.
How to Tell Whether a Hamster Is Truly Dead
To tell whether a hamster is truly dead, you can observe its physical characteristics and behavioral responses. Hamsters that are playing dead usually have pink noses, lively eyes, and their bodies and paws still have strength. While dead hamsters will have grayish-purple noses, dull eyes, and their bodies and paws will be completely limp. Moreover, you can touch the hamster's body to judge its body temperature. The body temperature of a hamster that is playing dead is still warm, while that of a dead hamster will become cold.
Countermeasures
If you find that a hamster is playing dead, don't panic and don't disturb it too much. Provide it with a quiet and warm environment, reduce the stimulation of noise and light, and let it wake up naturally. It may take some time for it to wake up naturally, and the specific time depends on its mental and physical conditions. Besides, you can give the hamster some energy-supplementing food and water to help it recover to normal more quickly.