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Why is my hamster sleeping so much and dragging her back legs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Hamster | Female

My hamster is not only asleep all day but also night, I have to wake her up 3 times within 3 hours to put her in a ball because she won’t exercise. She poops and pees just fine, she’s warm, her eyes are fine. It almost looks like she is dragging her back legs but I can’t really tell. Sometimes she’ll exercise alittle. The first day she used her wheel all night. She doesn’t look sick but I can’t tell. Russian dwarf hamster unknown exact age, from petsmart.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on October 26th, 2018

If she will allow, check her teeth for overgrowth or misalignment. Make sure her cage is warm enough and away from high traffic areas, strong drafts/vibrations and loud noises. Monitor for loose droppings, lethargy and a decreased appetite. Although most hamsters are more active at night, this may simply be her personality. An exam with your veterinarian is always recommended to make sure she isn't sick or injured.

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