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

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | unneutered

My hamster runs back and fourth all night and most of the day long. I heard it is a neurological problem? Is there some way I can help him?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on June 17th, 2017

Hamsters are naturally nocturnal, so it is normal to be active at night and early in the morning. Hamsters may also pace back and forth if they are bored or stressed, so making sure Phish has plenty of fun things to do such as burrowing in bedding, running on wheels, having a toy to chew, etc can help. If he's however losing his balance, has a strange head tilt, or is showing other strange behaviors in addition, then it could possibly be an underlying illness and should be checked out by a local vet.

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