Why do hamsters get sick all the time?

Hamsters are playful, lively animals that make great pets. In general, they are hardy and healthy. When hamsters do get sick, respiratory illnesses are a common cause. Unfortunately, respiratory illnesses can quickly go from bad to worse in hamsters.

When to take a sick hamster to the vet?

Influenza: the flu. The signs of a hamster with a respiratory infection include symptoms similar to what you would see in humans. These signs include: To prevent pneumonia or any other serious complications, you should take your sick hamsters to the vet to receive antibiotics.

Can a hamster get infected with a parasite?

Unfortunately, hamsters can get infected with a number of parasites that can cause your pets a lot of discomfort. When you’re checking your pet’s health, it’s a good idea to know some of the symptoms of parasitic infection so that you can identify these problems if your pet develops them.

What are the signs of an abscess on a hamster?

Abscesses require veterinary attention for draining, flushing, and treatment with antibiotics. Hamsters can get respiratory infections that can lead to pneumonia. Signs of a respiratory infection include sneezing, discharge from the eyes or nose, wheezing, and labored breathing.

Influenza: the flu. The signs of a hamster with a respiratory infection include symptoms similar to what you would see in humans. These signs include: To prevent pneumonia or any other serious complications, you should take your sick hamsters to the vet to receive antibiotics.

How can you tell if a hamster has an infection?

The swelling will be full of pus that the hamster’s immune system has produced to fight the infection. If the hamster cage has bars, the hamster will gnaw at them, sometime for half the night.

What happens when you open a sick hamster cage?

When you open the cage door, are your hamsters responsive? A normal reaction would be for it to perk its ears up and look towards your direction. A sick hamster might be completely out of it and not have any reaction when you open the cage. It might also cower or get nippy as it might feel vulnerable when it is sick or injured.

Why does my hamster have a hard time seeing?

This commonly causes decreased vision and may cause your hamster to tear up. Luckily, your vet may be able to help your hamster by giving them eyedrops or ointments, although sometimes surgery is required. Sticky eyes are more common with older hamsters as stickiness is similar to what we call “sleep” or “eye poop”.