How to tell if your hamster is sick?
Pet parents know their babies better than anyone. And when your usually happy-go-lucky little guy is acting or looking different, it’s worrisome and scary. But before going into full-blown panic mode, it’s essential to understand if you’ve got a sick hamster or if they’re having an off day.
Hamsters will typically show one (or more) of the following signs if they’re under the weather. Of course, other symptoms may present, too, but these are the most common.
- Loss of appetite
- Wetness around the tail
- Diarrhea
- Hair Loss
- Inactivity
- Sneezing, wheezing, discharge from nose or eyes
It is best to quarantine away from other pets, family members, and bright light if your hamster experience any of these symptoms. Additionally, solitude in a peaceful setting can occasionally hasten the healing process.
How to help your hamster feel better?
Hamsters can get sick from a variety of causes. But let’s concentrate on what to do if you’re wondering, “Do I have a sick hamster?,” and you have reason to believe that you do.
Feeding
Loss of appetite is among the most prevalent signs of a sick hamster. And since these guys are so small, going without food could be fatal. So what do you do? Additionally, provide them with extra bedding so they can make nests and curl up; this can help them combat the unpleasant coldness of their illness.
Provide simple-to-eat foods with more calories. For instance, baby food (fruits or vegetables) and minimal amounts of hard-boiled or scrambled eggs are both good choices. A medicine dropper or eyedropper can be used to feed the baby food can. Be cautious though. Allowing your hamster to eat continuously can exacerbate their condition.
Water
Drinking plenty of water is crucial. Move the water bottle close to your hamster’s sleeping area, just like you would with food, to make access easier. If they still won’t drink, try using an eyedropper to administer water. You can also use a weak, flavorless electrolyte solution that is mixed with water.
Maintain comfort
Hamsters with illnesses frequently become chilled, so you should keep them warm (but not hot, which can lead to death by heatstroke). Ensure that they are comfortable in your house. In order for them to reach their food, try first moving the dish closer to where they sleep. It’s fairly straightforward, but it might be helpful.
Limit activity
Despite the fact that they might enjoy it, consider taking away their exercise wheel until they feel better. We don’t want hamsters to exercise while they are ill because this could result in harm or dehydration.
Not improving?
After a few days, if you’re not seeing your sick hamster improve or their condition is getting worse, head to your trusted exotic veterinarian. They will diagnose and treat the exact cause. And probably give you a lot of peace of mind.
What are the best daily practices to maintain your hamster’s health?
There are several basic rules of thumb for optimal hamster care:
- Always feed your hamster from a dish. This minimizes accidental consumption of bedding, which can be hazardous.
- Change their food daily. Only about 20 percent of their daily food intake should be small pieces of fresh fruits and vegetables; any more than that could cause digestive issues.
- Offer chewing toys or blocks. These are effective and inexpensive, and hamsters love ’em.
- Keep their cage clean. Changing hamster bedding can be a monthly practice, although you should clean the cage weekly. Their bedding should be composed of natural materials.
- Make sure they get exercise. Keep in mind that hamsters need daily exercise.
If you want more helpful advice on looking after your hamster, including tips on food, toys, accessories and accommodation, add a comment below to let us know!
Waiting for our next post here.
