When hamsters are sick, they often show symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, and reduced activity. These symptoms can specifically affect their fur, eyes, nose, ears, teeth, and behavior. Below are some common signs of illness in hamsters:
I. Fur Problems
Hair Loss: Sick hamsters may experience hair loss, which is more noticeable if they are infested with parasites like fleas or mites. The skin surface may also show damage in such cases.
Rough, Dull Fur: A sick hamster’s fur may become unusually rough and lose its natural luster.
II. Eye Problems
Dull Eyes: A sick hamster’s eyes may look dull and lose the brightness they usually have.
Swollen Red Eyes & Increased Eye Discharge: This could be a sign of eye inflammation or viral infection.
III. Nose Problems
Runny Nose: Frequent nasal discharge in hamsters may indicate a cold or other respiratory illnesses.
Thick Nasal Mucus: A sick hamster’s nasal discharge may become thicker, and the area around the nose may look dirty.
IV. Ear Problems
Excessive Earwax: A large amount of earwax in a hamster’s ears may be caused by ear inflammation or an improper diet.
Foul Smell from Ears: This is also likely a sign of ear inflammation.
V. Teeth Problems
Overgrown Teeth Causing Drooling: If a hamster’s teeth grow too long, it may drool constantly, which affects its ability to eat.
Abnormal Tooth Growth Causing Chewing Difficulty: Irregular tooth growth can make it hard for the hamster to chew, further reducing its appetite.
VI. Behavioral Problems
Loss of Appetite: Most sick hamsters lose their appetite. When suffering from diarrhea, they may even lie motionless in a corner and show no interest in their favorite foods.
Lethargy & Reduced Activity: A sick hamster may huddle in a corner all day without moving, and even refuse its favorite snacks.
Weight Loss: Sustained loss of appetite leads to weight loss, which is a clear sign of illness.
Hard Lumps on the Body: If you feel hard bumps when touching the hamster’s body, it may have a tumor. Prompt veterinary checkups are necessary.
VII. Other Symptoms
Wet Tail: A constantly wet, dirty tail may be a symptom of wet tail disease (a serious intestinal infection).
Protruding Eyes: This may result from an unhealthy diet. It is important to switch to a nutritionally balanced hamster food.
Cheek Pouch Inflammation: Symptoms include bad breath and swollen cheek pouches. You can clean the pouches with a cotton swab dipped in normal saline.