* Nesting: Hamsters are natural hoarders and love to build nests for warmth, security, and to hide their treasures. Ripped up paper is a perfect nesting material. They'll often make "chewing" noises as they shred the paper and "sorting" noises as they arrange their nest.
* Burrowing: Hamsters also have a strong instinct to burrow. If they don't have enough bedding, they'll use paper to create burrows and tunnels within their cage. This behavior is often accompanied by "scratching" and "digging" noises.
* Playing: Hamsters are playful creatures. They may be using the paper as a toy, playing with it, and exploring its texture. This might lead to them making "squeaking" or "chirping" sounds.
However, if your hamster's behavior changes drastically or seems distressed, it's best to consult a veterinarian. Here are some signs of distress:
* Excessive chewing: If your hamster is chewing on everything in its cage, it could be a sign of boredom or stress.
* Excessive vocalization: If your hamster is making loud, high-pitched noises, or if the noises seem distressed, it could be a sign of illness or pain.
* Change in eating habits: If your hamster suddenly stops eating or starts eating significantly more, it could be a sign of illness.
* Change in sleeping habits: If your hamster is sleeping more or less than usual, it could be a sign of illness.
Overall, hamsters stuffing themselves in ripped up paper is mostly normal behavior. But always monitor your hamster's behavior and if you notice any changes, consult a veterinarian.