The rapid mortality rate of hamsters stems from a combination of factors, including improper care practices, poor environmental management, and physiological traits. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Improper Care Practices
Dietary mistakes: Feeding human food (such as seasoned snacks), excessive fruits/vegetables, or moldy feed can easily cause diarrhea (e.g., wet tail) or poisoning, which may be fatal within 48 hours. Tap water, which may contain parasites or heavy metals, can lead to gastroenteritis if consumed directly.
Incorrect grooming: Bathing hamsters with water risks choking or fatal colds—they should instead use sand baths for cleaning.
Lack of exercise: Without a running wheel, hamsters may develop "cage paralysis" (degeneration of the motor system) and depression.
2. Poor Environmental Management
Temperature extremes: Hamsters thrive in temperatures between 20–28°C. Temperatures above 30°C in summer can cause sudden heatstroke death, while temperatures below 15°C in winter may lead to freezing or pseudohibernation (a near-death state from which recovery is difficult).
Hygiene issues: Infrequent replacement of bedding or litter allows bacteria to thrive, triggering respiratory infections or skin diseases.
Inadequate space: Tiny cages (e.g., palm-sized enclosures) induce stress and weaken the immune system.
3. Health and Genetic Problems
Neglected illnesses: Conditions like wet tail or parasitic infections can be fatal within 48 hours if left untreated (e.g., using montmorillonite powder to stop diarrhea).
The "weekend hamster" phenomenon: Hamsters bought from flower-and-bird markets or unregulated sources may carry congenital diseases (such as heart conditions), resulting in a high risk of death within one week.
4. Behavioral and Psychological Factors
Stress reactions: Frequent handling, bright lights, or loud noises can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Group housing: Hamsters are solitary animals; aggression between cage mates may lead to fatal injuries.
Key Prevention Measures
Diet: Focus on specialized hamster food, with limited fruits/vegetables (no more than the size of a fingernail daily).
Environment: Use corn cob bedding for heat dissipation in summer and paper-based bedding for warmth in winter.
Health monitoring: Isolate and seek veterinary care immediately if signs of illness appear, such as messy fur or rapid breathing.