Hamsters are most commonly kept as pets because of their small size, cute appearance, and low cost. When the cuddly little furry creatures look like they’re not feeling well, it can be both worrying and frustrating for owners. However, knowing a few common hamster health issues can help take some of the mystery out of what might be going on with your pet.
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Allergies and skin diseases
Allergies and skin diseases can be a problem for hamsters. A hamster can also have food allergies which can lead to irritable bowel syndrome.
One issue with diseased rodents is that they are too sick to groom themselves properly, so instead of being clean and smooth, their fur becomes matted and dirty.
Some of the most common infections in hamsters are respiratory allergy, dermatitis, and bacterial or fungal infection.
Digestive Problems
Few people know that hamsters can have digestive problems. One of the most common is diarrhea, which usually results from a change in diet or stress.
Another common problem is impacted food. This is when the hamster swallows too much food and it gets stuck in the stomach before being digested.
The result is chronic indigestion or gas, both of which can lead to constipation.
Hair Loss
Hamsters are not humans, but it is possible for them to experience hair loss.
The coat of a hamster is made up of four different types of hair: guard hairs, undercoat hairs, down hairs, and whiskers.
When all four types are healthy, you can tell that the hamster has a good coat.
However, if their coat starts to thin, it may be due to vitamin deficiency, stress, or other health issues.
Dental Problems
Dental problems can arise for hamsters if they don’t get something to chew on. They need things to chew on so that their teeth don’t grow too long.
Hamsters are fond of chewing just about anything that they can get their paws on, so it’s important to make sure that they’re fed chewy items like fruits and veggies, but also rawhide and other treats made especially for small animals.
Respiratory Illness
Several respiratory illnesses affect hamsters. The most common is the flu, which typically presents as a runny nose and eyes.
Diabetes can also lead to respiratory issues because blood sugar levels are high, which can cause the hamster’s body to overproduce mucus.
Other things that can result in respiratory illness include lung infections or inflammation, allergies, and asthma.
Conclusion: 5 Common Hamster Health Issue
In conclusion, hamsters are prone to several health issues, some of which can be fatal if left untreated.
It is important to be aware of these issues and to take steps to prevent them from occurring. By being aware of the common health issues that hamsters face, owners can help keep their furry friends happy and healthy.
Owners should be vigilant in monitoring their hamsters’ health and seeking veterinary care when necessary.
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