Dwarf Hamster Illnesses (Part Two)

A common and more serious hamster illness is the Wet Tail. This disease is a bacterial disease which will make your dwarf hamster very sick. Although it is more common in Syrian hamsters but it can affect the dwarf hamster also. This sickness is highly infectious and may cause death within a few days. Wet tail is usually caused by weaning, stress, dirty cages, overcrowding, environmental changes, and malnutrition.

A wet tail is exactly what the name implies. The hamster actually has a wet tail from excessive diarrhea, (a sticky jelly-like fluid). Other symptoms are loss of appetite, ears laying down, dirty appearance, bad temper and may become lethargic. In severe cases the rectal becomes prolapsed. You must see your veterinarian, for any hope of survival for your dwarf hamster or death will follow within a few days.

After taking your sick hamster to the vet you must do the following when your vet confirms the diagnosis keep your dwarf hamster away from the rest of any other hamsters you have. In fact separate each individual hamster from each other in different cages and keeping them far apart. Then disinfect everything in your hamster's cage including the water bottle, food bowls, toys, wheel and any other items that the hamster has been in contact with. Make sure you use an anti-bacterial soap on your hands too. Put clean bedding down every day until your dwarf hamster is well. In the event that the sick hamster does not make it then get rid of anything that cannot be disinfected.

Just like humans the dwarf hamster can get a cold. You can spread a cold or the flu to your hamster, so if you are ill do not play with or pick up the hamster. Another reason your fury friend may get a cold is from a drafty room, so make sure you place the cage in the correct environment for your pet. The symptoms of a cold or flu are: a runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and a fever. During this period keep the little one warm and follow up with a vet visit so that the illness can be treated properly before a more serious problem arises or even death.

Diarrhea and constipation are some other dwarf hamster illnesses. These illnesses need to be seen by a veterinarian also, if you can not get them under control within a few days. These too can be deadly. Diarrhea is commonly from eating too many fruits and vegetables, a dietary change or stress. Remove all fruits and vegetables and give dry grains. Constipation you will see very few droppings from lack of water or poor diet. Add some fresh fruits and vegetables to the hamster's diet. As with any other illnesses see your veterinarian if the problem worsens or does not improve. Always with dwarf hamster illnesses consult a veterinarian, he or she will help you in getting your sick hamster well again.