Hamster Illnesses You Should
Know About
When
caring for your pet hamster, it’s important to be
aware of their overall health. This includes being knowledgeable about
their general health conditions, and being able to recognize signs of
problems.
A somewhat common dental problem for hamsters is and overgrowth of incisors which can injure the roof of the mouth. This condition can occur from malnutrition or injury and must be treated by a vet. Weight loss, drooling, bad breath and loss of appetite are the main symptoms to watch for.
Although not technically an illness, hamsters are so small that their bones are quite fragile. As a result they can be easily injured is they fall, jump from heights or are dropped. Unfortunately, it is all too common for them to fall off of a table or a high surface while inside of an exercise ball and suffer broken legs or backs. There is no cure for this, and they should be taken to a vet for proper evaluation.
Hamsters can suffer from heat stroke when they get too hot. Symptoms to watch for are lethargy, limpness, sweat and matted fur. The proper response must be applied within 20 minutes, or the hamster could die. Put the hamster immediately in a cool location with plenty of cold water available, along with cold fruits with high water content, like apples.
If a hamster gets too cold, it could go into hibernation, become nonresponsive and possibly die within 20 minutes. The correct treatment is to place the hamster in a warm location, taking care not to let it overheat, and keep it warm for about 10 hours.
Bladder stones are somewhat common in hamsters, but they can only be treated by a vet. If you pet loses its appetite, drinks more water than usual and urinates frequently take it to a vet as soon a possible for treatment.
Tumors occur often in older female hamsters, and can sometimes be removed if they are external. But if they are internal, it’s probable that they cannot be treated due to the hamster’s small size. Watch for odd behavior and hair loss, and take your pet to a vet for diagnosis.
Wet tail is a serious type of diarrhea that can occur as a result of stress. Bloody or watery stools are the most obvious signs. There is danger of dehydration, and the condition should be treated by a vet.
Salmonellosis can be contracted from eating contaminated fruits and vegetables, and may be passed along to humans. It can be avoided by washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before feedings.
Demodectic mange is a parasite that lives in the skin and hair. Although it can be treated by a vet, it may be a result of a weakened immune system due to other more serious problems.
Intestinal parasites, like tapeworms or pinworms, must be treated by a vet. Take precautions when handling pet hamsters if you suspect these parasites, since they can be easily transmitted to humans.
