Hamsters can indeed be frozen to death in winter. Hamsters are very sensitive to cold. When the ambient temperature is lower than 10°C, they may enter a state of pseudohibernation. If no timely measures are taken, hamsters may die due to extremely low body temperature.
The Sensitivity of Hamsters to Low Temperatures and Countermeasures
The suitable ambient temperature for hamsters is between 18°C and 24°C. In the cold winter, it is necessary to provide warmth-keeping measures for hamsters and avoid placing them in cold places, especially near windows or in the direct path of an air conditioner's breeze. You can place the hamster's cage in a warm and dry place to keep the temperature stable and prevent sudden drops in temperature.
Warmth-keeping Measures
Use warm bedding materials: Add warm bedding materials with good heat retention properties such as cotton, paper towels, and pieces of cloth to the hamster's cage. Avoid using materials with poor heat retention properties like wood shavings.
Provide a warm environment: If the room temperature is lower than 5°C, you can place the cage in a place where it won't be affected by the wind, or put a larger cardboard box over the cage to keep it warm.
Increase high-protein foods: In the cold winter, increase high-protein foods such as egg whites and mealworms. However, be careful not to feed them in excessive amounts.
Identification and Treatment of Pseudohibernation
When hamsters enter a state of pseudohibernation, they will curl up their bodies to maintain their body temperature, their movements will become sluggish, and their appetite will decrease. If you find that a hamster is curled up but still has a heartbeat, you should immediately restore its body temperature. For example, place the hamster on a hot water bag to gradually warm it up, which should last for about 2 to 3 hours. If the hamster has already lost its heartbeat, it means that it has died.