Injuries and Ailments of Hamsters :: Hamsters Animals Veternarians Essays

Injuries and Ailments of HamstersIn general, hamsters (especially those in the wild) are productive little animals and arent affected by many natural diseases. But, they are actually susceptible to the infectious diseases of other animals, including humans. Many of the problems and ailments now associated with hamsters are a direct result of captivity. Because they are small, a minor illness puke rapidly become major if immediate treatment isnt pursued. Since they are nocturnal many of the early signs of illness are not noticed. To insure unspoilt health, hamsters should be checked regularly to include eating habits, exercise habits, teeth, limbs, dust check for lumps, cuts and abrasions, etc. etc. A sick hamster generally becomes petulant and bitey. They frequently become lethargic or walk almost stiff-legged if laboured to move or may sit in a hunch over position. The eyes are usually dull, sunken and sometimes watery. And, they dont eat much, which results in weight loss. SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSE Blood in water supply Bladder & Kidney transmission Bloody Diarrhea Intussusception Breathing solemn Shock - Colds & Influenza Broken Limb Broken Limb change shape Anus Constipation - Intussusception - Rectal Prolapse Closed Eye(s) Impacted theca - Irritated Eyes Constipation Endoparasites Crusty Lesions in ears, face, feet Ear Mites Cuts & Bites Abscesses - Cuts & Bites pull posterior Quarters Broken Limb - Cage Paralysis - Hind Limb Paralysis Dry Scaly Skin Demodicosis - Mange - Mites - Ringworm - Sarcoptic Mange eat Babies Cannibalism Eggs in Feces Endoparasites Excessive Drinking Bladder & Kidney Infection - Diabetes Extreme Diarrhea Tyzzers Disease - Wet Tail Eye fault Eye Prolapse