Adaptive regulation of energy metabolism is a key strategy of small mammals to cope with environmental changes. To investigate the impact of altered heat dissipation capacity on energy metabolism and fat accumulation in animals, this study manipulated the heat dissipation capacity in adult male striped hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis) by exposing them to high temperatures (32.5℃) or shaving for 8 weeks. Body mass, energy intake, body temperature, metabolic rate, fur thermal conductance, fat mass and visceral organ weight were measured. Additionally, the gene expression of neuropeptides associated with food intake regulation in the hypothalamus was determined. The results showed that dorsally shaved hamsters increased heat dissipation capacity, energy intake, and metabolic rate but decreased body temperature, without significantly altering body fat accumulation. In contrast, the exposure to high ambient temperature decreased heat dissipation capacity, energy intake, and metabolic rate, increased body temperature, but considerably increased fat accumulation. The results show that the heat dissipation capacity of small mammals changes metabolic thermogenesis and consequently regulates body fat content, which is of physiological and ecological significance for small mammals to cope with the seasonal changes of natural environment.