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Home > Hamsters > Do Hamsters Like Music? Risk Factors & Safety Tips

Do Hamsters Like Music? Risk Factors & Safety Tips

little dwarf hamster on womans hands

Have you ever wondered if hamsters like music? After all, they seem to be keen listeners, often cocking their heads in curiosity at new sounds. Well, research suggests that hamsters do enjoy music—in the right context! Certain types of beats and rhythms can actually help hamsters relax and feel more at ease. So go ahead and break out the tunes for your furry friend and see how they react. Who knows? They might even appreciate some of your favorite songs as much as you do!

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What Kind of Music Do Hamsters Like?

It’s thought that hamsters find slow, soothing melodies and beats most calming. This includes classical music, jazz, or soft rock. Try playing a few different genres to see which one your hamster enjoys the most. There are even playlists on Spotify with music designed for hamsters and other small rodents to enjoy. Additionally, it’s important to keep the volume level low since loud noises may startle your small pet.

European Common Hamster (Cricetus Cricetus) on the Vienna Central Cemetery
Image Credit: Lisa Stelzel, Shutterstock

How Will I Know If My Hamster Likes Music?

If your hamster enjoys music, they’ll likely start becoming calmer and more relaxed. They may even start moving around as if they’re dancing! Hamsters are also known to respond positively when music is playing by grooming themselves, exploring their environment more freely, or snuggling up in a comfortable spot. When it comes to music and hamsters, the proof is in the pudding so pay close attention to how your pet reacts when you put on some tunes!

Can Hamsters Hear More Sounds Than Humans?

Hamsters have a heightened sense of hearing, making them able to pick up frequencies that humans can’t even detect. This means that hamsters may be able to hear music and other audio more clearly than humans can. Additionally, hamsters have a special membrane in their ears which helps them detect even the faintest sounds. As such, it’s important to keep the volume of any music you play for your hamster at an appropriate level or risk startling them!

white hamster being held by owner
Image Credit: Victor FlowerFly, Shutterstock

What Is the Safe Sound Level for Hamster Ears?

Hamsters have very sensitive ears and can hear sounds several times more than humans. The safe sound level for hamster ears is 85 dB sound pressure level (SPL) or lower. Any sound above this level could cause hearing damage to your pet hamster. It is best to keep the volume of music or sound systems low and avoid exposing them to loud noises such as barking dogs, squealing, etc. Hamsters rely largely on their hearing to navigate their habitat and avoid predators, so it is important to ensure they are not exposed to any loud noises that could harm them.

How Can I Tell If My Hamster Is Uncomfortable with Music?

There are several ways to tell if your hamster is uncomfortable. One of the most obvious signs is if they freeze or hide in their shelter when exposed to loud noises. Other signs that indicate your hamster may be overwhelmed by sound include flattening of the ears, trembling, and excessive scratching of the ears.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to remove any source of loud noise as quickly as possible and make sure your hamster has a safe space they can retreat to if they feel scared or overwhelmed. It is also important to make sure your hamster has plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied and happily distracted from any uncomfortable sounds.

close up image of a wet hamster
Image Credit: dba87, Shutterstock

Can Hamsters Die from Loud Noises?

No, hamsters do not die from loud noises. However, they can die from stress. They are very sensitive to loud sounds and can become scared if they hear a sudden noise. Prolonged exposure to sounds above a tolerable decibel level could cause health problems such as wet tail, which is a gastrointestinal illness. Over time, these stress-related problems can become fatal illnesses.

The 10 Tips for Keeping Your Hamster Safe When You Play Music

  • Keep the volume of any music you play for your hamster low and at a safe decibel level.
  • Try playing different genres of music to see which one your pet enjoys the most.
  • Be mindful of sudden loud noises that could startle or frighten your pet.
  • Let your hamster retreat to their safe space if they become overwhelmed.
  • Make sure your hamster has plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied and happy.
  • Avoid playing music that is too repetitive or noisy as this could cause boredom or stress.
  • Place the speaker on a low surface instead of having it near your hamster’s head.
  • Consider buying a pet-friendly speaker made specifically for animals.
  • Speak to your veterinarian if you have any concerns about the volume of the music or its effects on your pet’s health.
  • Above all, enjoy the time with your furry friend and make sure they have plenty of fun!

Other Things That Can Stress Your Hamster

In addition to loud noises, there are other factors that can cause undue stress in hamsters. These include sudden changes in temperature, unfamiliar surroundings, and lack of exercise. It is important for pet owners to be aware of these elements as they could all have an impact on the wellbeing of their small companion.

Image Credit: v-svirido, Shutterstock

Is There a Pet-Friendly Speaker I Can Buy for My Hamster?

Yes, there are pet-friendly speakers made specifically for animals that you can purchase. These are designed to produce sounds at a comfortable level and won’t frighten your pet. It’s also important to place the speaker on a low surface instead of having it near your hamster’s head.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, hamsters can like and appreciate music but it should be played at a low volume. Too much noise can cause hearing damage and even death in hamsters. It is essential to keep the volume of music or sound systems low when your hamster is in the same space to avoid exposing them to loud noises that could trigger stress and anxiety. By monitoring your pet’s sound environment, you will ensure its comfort and safety for a long and happy life.


Featured Image Credit: Hintau Aliaksei, Shutterstock

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