Veterinarian at homeVeterinary clinic for hamsters in Moscow

Djungarian hamsters are domestic miniature, decorative rodents. Djungaric hamsters live from 1 to 4 years. Four years of age is considered a rarity among hamsters; such rodents are considered long-lived. Djungarians do not like being in sunlight for a long time; they are negatively affected by loud sound and bright fast clips on television. Diseases of Djungarian hamsters depend on the conditions of detention. Hamsters require a spacious cage, since the animals themselves are active animals, and they also do not tolerate the accumulation of garbage and excrement in their habitat.

In addition to the allotted life time by nature, proper nutrition has a great influence on hamsters. In this way, you can achieve a healthy life expectancy for the animal. Long-term research has revealed that their diet must include vegetables and fruits, namely carrots and zucchini. It is these two food products that contain the very elements that have a positive effect on the digestive system of Djungarian hamsters.

Habitats and how to arrange a cage. Diseases of Djungarian hamsters

Since some people keep Djungarian hamsters as a pet, their habitat is a cage or a specially equipped terrarium with oxygen supply. Thus, a person can easily track the life cycle of animals. There should be no high structures in cages and terrariums. These animals are so agile that they are sometimes clumsy, and this can cause further injury, for example, if they fall from a height. If a hamster falls, it can get bruises or scratches, which in turn can worsen, leading to more serious consequences. Close observation with due attention to the hamsters will give you the opportunity to promptly notice any deviations from the usual norm.

Let's together highlight some important aspects when arranging the future home of a dwarf hamster. The cage should contain a sippy cup, feeders, a house and wheels for games, since these animals, as mentioned earlier, are very mobile. The presence of stairs, tunnels and other household items at your request. Some people arrange the presence of two furious elevations in the cage.

These animals are not very endowed with the instinct of self-preservation by nature; only the close attention of their owners, as well as care for such a cute creature, will help prolong the life of the animal. If you once came up with the idea of ​​getting a Djungarian hamster and you think that you will have no problems coping with such a small creature, then you are mistaken. Before getting an animal, it is worth talking with knowledgeable people who have experience in handling such animals. If you decide to give a gift to a child, then you should give a gentle lecture on handling and care. Any animal in the house is a great responsibility for their owners. The lecture will help you prevent your child from further disappointment.

Histology and cytology

If there is a suspicion of a tumor of a malignant or benign nature, these studies are prescribed.

With their help, it is possible not only to understand the structure of the tumor, but also to make a prognosis of its development, and for those who have undergone treatment, to assess the likelihood of relapse.

A scheme of further actions is also being developed.

During a histological examination, the structure and characteristics of the tissue are studied. The material is taken during surgery to remove the tumor.

Cytological examination is more in-depth, as it is aimed at a detailed study of the properties of the tumor.

It is taken using a thin needle during a procedure called a biopsy.

Diseases of Djungarian hamsters and symptoms

In a sick hamster, symptoms usually appear immediately, since their metabolism is very fast, the presence of a wet tail, accompanied by diarrhea, blood discharge is also possible, which can subsequently bring such an unpleasant symptom to the animal as dehydration, which causes the body temperature to rise, and behavior changes to the point of complete lethargy. Next comes death. All diseases with complications can worsen and move into other phases of the disease, building a whole chain of unpleasant painful events.

Diseases of Djungarian hamsters are varied, let's look at some of them.

1 Mechanical injuries or bruises, fractures, scratches and even fainting occur as a result of a fall from a height or during the manifestation of your boundless love for a rodent. Such falls are fraught with bruises to internal organs. Symptoms include a painful appearance of your animal, namely problematic movement and twisted limbs.

2 Colds - here, in general, the disease and accompanying symptoms are characteristic, as with any living creature. The activity of the animal is reduced, pain is accompanied by sneezing, snoring, and lack of appetite. It is easy to notice the presence of the disease by the low activity of the hamster.

3 Eye diseases - conjunctivitis, purulent discharge, sticking of the eyelids. A visual examination of the animal will give a complete picture of the presence of the disease. But there is also an incurable disease called cataracts in the eyes of a hamster. In this case, the animal requires much more care and attention.

4 Another common problem is the problem with the teeth of a rodent; excessive growth in the length of the teeth interferes with the life of hamsters; also, due to mechanical injuries, any parts of the teeth can be damaged. To identify this disease, it is enough to conduct a visual examination.

5 Skin and coat diseases - dermatophytosis and eczema are accompanied by skin exfoliation and hair loss. This disease is very easy to identify by performing a visual examination.

6 Intestinal diseases - an upset stomach of the baby is accompanied by loose stools and an unpleasant odor.

7 And finally, the most common problem is the formation of lumps; many owners have the opinion that a newly formed lump is a cancerous disease. Don’t worry, it’s important to contact a qualified specialist who will accurately determine your pet’s disease. Perhaps it was an unfortunate injury from a fall.

8 Constipation - improper feeding, lack of moisture and dry food contribute to poor digestion. The disease can be identified by highlighting the symptoms - small droppings in the cage, other forms of bending during bowel movements, the animal makes a squeak. Also loss of appetite.

9 Allergies - such a small creature is also susceptible to allergic reactions. The symptoms are similar to those in humans - sneezing, itchy nose, liquid discharge from the mucous membranes of the eyes and nose.

10 Shedding - in general, this cannot be called a disease if we assume that shedding is inherent in nature, but there are also pathological complications when the fur comes off due to a lack of vitamins in the animal’s body.

11 Obesity is not so much a disease as it is an oversight of the owners. By pampering his animal with goodies, the owner of the hamster, without knowing it, dooms him to gain excess weight, which in turn causes shortness of breath and great stress on the heart. Fat hamsters don't live long.

At home, the diseases that will now be described are quite rare, but it is still better to be prepared for any ailment of the domestic dwarf. And let's look at it like this:

• Rabies - the hamster begins to behave aggressively, squeaking and biting for no reason.
• Tuberculosis - makes hoarse moans, breathes heavily. Weight loss and decreased activity.
• Parasites Ticks - itching, wounds, hair loss, rodent squeaking, abscess.
• Listeriosis - fainting, loss of coordination.
• Tizzer's disease - severe diarrhea, apathy, the hamster is shaking.

How to get rid of parasites

Many owners are puzzled by the question of how to get rid of lice in dogs. After all, trichodectosis is a very dangerous disease. To prevent the development of infection, it is necessary to immediately treat lice in dogs.

Only an effective remedy can properly remove lice eaters from a dog. The same medications are used to get rid of fleas in dogs. Today, manufacturers offer a lot of anti-parasitic products, which come in the form of sprays, drops, shampoos and even collars. All these drugs for lice eaters make it possible to carry out treatment at home on your own. They can be purchased at any veterinary clinic or specialized store in Moscow.

Pediculicidal shampoos are something that can be used to treat hairworms even in puppies. Such detergents also provide effective removal of lice, ticks and fleas. They have a moisturizing effect, which reduces itching in your pet. The dog's coat takes on a healthy appearance, combs well, becomes smoother and silkier. Most of these detergents have a pleasant aroma and do not cause allergic reactions. Shampoos are recommended for use of various breeds and ages:

1. The shampoo is applied to the dog's wet coat. Contaminated and matted areas need to be treated especially carefully, using more product.
2. It is unacceptable for the cleaning solution to come into contact with the animal’s eyes.
3. The solution is rubbed in with massage movements and, to achieve the effect, left on the dog’s body for the time specified in the description (usually it is at least 5 minutes).
4. After which the pet’s fur is thoroughly washed with water, dried with a hairdryer, and dead insects are combed out.

The following pet shampoos are in great demand among consumers: Lugovoy, Fitoelita, Demos-Lux.

Shampoo Lugovoi

Shampoos do not have a long period of protection, so when using them, re-processing is not necessary.

Drops from lice in their composition contain insecticidal components, thanks to which they have a detrimental effect on parasites. This method of fighting is one of the most effective. In addition, the drops have a long period of protection: the product can not only remove lice-eaters already present in the dog’s fur, but also prevents the possibility of re-infection for a long time (up to 6-8 months). The medicine should be dripped into places that are inaccessible for licking (on the withers or spine). Many owners prefer drops of the following brands: Dana, Bars, Irbis, Advantage.

Remedies for lice in the form of sprays have a composition similar to drops. Their distinctive feature is the concentration of the insecticide and the method of application. To rid your pet of parasites, almost all of his hair is sprayed with an aerosol.

Particular attention is paid to the back, hips, abdomen, neck and head. The most popular sprays are Frontline, Defendog or Decor 1

Spray Frontline

You can also be treated for lice with the help of injections; you just need to bring the dog to the veterinary clinic. A collar will help save your pet from the invasion of parasites. However, this method of control has many contraindications, so consultation with a veterinarian is necessary. There are also insecticidal suspensions that need to be diluted to treat the dog.

Whatever means of control you prefer, its use must be carried out in accordance with the instructions, the weight and age of the dog.

Folk remedies

Treatment of dogs with folk remedies can give positive results in the fight against lice eaters. Man has long discovered the healing properties of string, wormwood and chamomile. It is especially useful to use decoctions of these herbs for small puppies. However, their use is effective only at the initial stage of parasite infection of a pet.

Treatment of disease in Djungarian hamsters

By contacting the Ya-Vet veterinary center, we will provide you with full qualified assistance, help you console yourself and cure your rodent, and you can also use the service of calling a doctor at home. The experience and professionalism of our specialists will satisfy all your requirements, and the price will pleasantly surprise you.

After a complete examination, the veterinarian may prescribe home treatment for the animal. Let's look together at what a hamster owner can handle on his own.

• If you have a cold, it is enough to give your hamster more fruits that contain vitamins; they, in turn, will stimulate the functioning of the animal’s immune system. Thus, with a minor cold, your hamster will return to normal in a couple of days.
• In case of eye disease, it is enough for the rodent owner to rinse the eyes with lightly salted water several times a day.
• In case of mechanical damage to the teeth or their shortening, you should contact veterinary centers for qualified help; in many cases, the diagnosis and its solution can only be made by a highly specialized specialist.
• Diseases of the skin and coat are varied; hair loss can be triggered by a state of shock, fear of the baby, or prolonged stress, pay attention to this. There may also be parasites on the skin of the animal - ticks and lice; special sprays and ointments will help us deal with this problem.
• For disorders of the gastrointestinal tract of the Djungarian hamster. It is enough to change his diet, pay attention to the foods he eats.
• If tumors and lumps are detected, immediately contact a veterinary center, only there they will give you an accurate diagnosis and offer the right path to solving the problem.
• Constipation is treated by adding a drop of vegetable oil to the food; it softens the solid mixture and forms a soft effect on the walls of the stomach. Also, the addition of fiber (fruits, vegetables) will accompany you on the way to a good passage of the intestinal tract.
• Allergies in a hamster can be caused by unsuitable food, sawdust in the cage, or bedding materials.
• Molting is treated by normalizing nutrition, including vitamin-rich foods in the diet and adding yeast to the water.
• If you have an obese hamster, then treatment is completely in your hands; the right diet and exercise will get your pet in shape.

Worms and parasites in hamsters

You brought home a tiny hamster, take care of it, feed it the right food, give it vitamins, but one day you notice that something is wrong with your pet? The hamster has become lethargic, he has a poor appetite - perhaps your rodent has... worms. Unfortunately, these parasites are quite common in the body of hamsters and must be dealt with. How? We will talk about this in our publication...

Animal tests at home

It is difficult to take tests from hamsters, especially blood. It will be very difficult for owners who do not have the appropriate education and experience to do this, so it is better to entrust the procedure to a veterinarian.

Our doctors are ready to go to your home in Moscow and the region, take biomaterial, and then take it for examination.

Aggressive or fearful hamsters can be calmed with mild sedatives, and topical painkillers are also used.

The delivery service is included in the price - a clinic employee will take them to our veterinary hospital and transfer them to the laboratory.

Calling a veterinarian at home is convenient because:

• you and your pet remain in a familiar home environment;
• save time and energy for more enjoyable things;
• get favorable prices for services;
• You can get other veterinary services for your pets.

Departures are carried out without days off or breaks in Moscow and the region. Various payment methods are provided, and the price list is the same as for visitors to the veterinary hospital.

How many tests are carried out?

You receive test results within 1-2 days. An express diagnostic service is also provided, in which information will be available in a few hours.

Rapid tests are required in emergency cases, when urgent surgery is needed or treatment cannot be delayed.

General services

Laboratory diagnostics

Do hamsters have worms?

We all know that worms can parasitize the body of animals, birds, and people. And, alas, our pet hamsters are not immune from such internal tenants. Their presence in the rodent’s body is harmful to the health of your little pet, since worms absorb all the nutrients that the hamster receives along with food, they multiply in his body, and as a result of their vital activity, they release toxic substances and toxins that can lead to intoxication of the body, leading to exhaustion of the hamster and, ultimately, to its death. A rodent, weakened by the existence of such parasites inside it, has a harder time resisting viruses and infections, and the slightest cold can end sadly for it. Read more about hamster diseases.

Appearance of rat fleas

There is the southern rat flea and the European flea, there are only 2 species. The first parasitizes mainly on gray rodents, which mainly live in cellars and sewers. They pose the greatest danger, as they spread various infections. Initially they lived in the subtropics and tropical regions, from there they spread throughout the world. If we talk about appearance, they are no different from other types of fleas. Body length up to 4 mm. The cover is chitinous, shiny, chestnut color. Both species have 3 pairs of legs: the front and middle ones are short, the hind ones are slightly longer. They can jump to a height of up to 1.5 meters. On the head: round eyes and antennae.

How to determine if a hamster has worms

A stool test will help determine the presence of worms.

Almost all hamsters have worms. To be sure, you can take your pet's stool to a veterinary laboratory for testing. Both flat and round tapeworms can be found in it.

If you can’t see a veterinarian, and you doubt whether your pet has worms, take a closer look at him. If your little hamster has become inactive, it often shows signs of anxiety, its fur looks unkempt, it has problems with bowel movements, hair loss or the formation of ulcers on the skin is possible, trembling periodically runs through the hamster’s body, previously tame, it suddenly began to show aggression, it has deteriorated appetite, and he looks sick and exhausted - most likely we are talking about a helminthic infestation. Although, perhaps the above symptoms also indicate the presence of other diseases in the rodent. Only a veterinarian can answer this question accurately, after examining the rodent’s stool for the presence of parasites.

Are hamster worms dangerous for humans?

Since you often pick up a hamster in your arms, clean its cage, and do not always remember the rules of personal hygiene after contact with the pet and its things, it is likely that you can become infected with worms from the hamster. Much has been said about the consequences of helminthic infestation for the human body, and we will not repeat ourselves. Let's just say that worms do not add health to either you or your pet. Therefore, in order to get rid of them and prevent their appearance, you definitely need to take certain measures.

Clinical urine analysis with sediment microscopy

The kidneys and the genitourinary system as a whole are often affected by infections or colds.

Diseases cause pain to your pet and make it difficult to urinate, so treatment cannot be delayed.

The first thing the doctor does is order a urine test. Urine is carefully examined, identifying crystals, bacteria, blood and other foreign inclusions.

An assessment is made based on the degree of transparency, color, acidity and other criteria.

Urine should be collected in the morning and sent for testing no later than 2 hours after collection.

Treatment of worms in hamsters

How to rid a hamster of worms

Following the dosage prescribed in the instructions, using a special syringe without a needle (it comes with the medicine), carefully inject the specified amount of anthelmintic suspension into the rodent’s mouth, making sure that the pet does not choke. That's all. Following the recommendations from the instructions, do not forget about the prevention of worms in your hamster.

Video about hamsters

Today we talked about worms in hamsters, the prevention and treatment of these parasites. We hope that our publication will keep your pet healthy. Do you deworm your hamsters? Share your experience with us.

We are waiting for your feedback and comments, join our VKontakte group!

Can a hamster get external parasites - fleas, lice, lice and scabies mites? Hamster owners don’t ask this question very often, and only when faced with the problem directly do they learn a lot of new and sometimes unpleasant things.

Treatment of decorative rats for parasites

Hello, Alina!

The best thing to do would be to go to the vet immediately. But, unfortunately for rat lovers, veterinarians who specialize in rodents are not so easy to find. Therefore, we will try to do it on our own.

Parasites in decorative rats

An ordinary veterinarian, not a veterinarian, will most likely diagnose your rat with a food allergy and recommend eliminating protein foods from the animal's diet. But judging by your description, the animal suffers from parasites. These can be lice eaters, as well as ticks. The first type of parasites is easy to see if you part the animal’s fur - they are small, reddish in color, swarming in the fur. The nits of these insects are white particles; they hang, firmly glued to the hairs of the rat's fur coat. Especially many lice eaters can be seen on the withers of a rodent.

As for mites, due to their small size, they can only be seen with a microscope. The doctor at the veterinary hospital takes a scraping for this purpose. However, mites may not be included in this analysis, and then the result will not be indicative. Indirect signs are scratching, scabs, scabs, especially in the neck and muzzle.

Fleas are also ectoparasites, so you can get rid of them from a rat using the same drugs that are intended for the above-mentioned parasites.

Treatment of rats for lice, ticks, fleas

Please use any of the suggested medications to cure your pet.

Unoiled. This drug is inexpensive and can be found in almost all pharmacies. It is very effective in getting rid of any ectoparasites. But you have to tinker a little:

• You need to dilute a 2 ml ampoule of the drug with warm water (400 ml).
• Place the rat on the edge of the bathtub or sink, holding it with one hand.
• Gently soak a cotton pad in the solution and, without squeezing, wipe the animal over the fur. First, the back, then the tummy and chin, we wipe the shoulders very carefully and scratches and wounds are treated without fail.
• Be confident and calm.
• Avoid contact of the solution with the animal's eyes, nose and mouth.
• Soak the rodent generously in the solution, wring out the fur a little and wrap it in a warm cloth (towel).
• There is no need to wash off the drug!
• You need to wait for the skin to dry completely. Make sure that the animal does not lick the fur while it is wet!
• Keep your rat in your arms and warm. After the wool dries, the drug ceases to be toxic.
• After 10 days, repeat the treatment.
• The rodent's house, cage, dishes - everything also needs to be carefully processed.

You can use an aerosol for cats called “Bars”. A good remedy for lice

Be careful - only aerosol, not drops! Attention! The active ingredient must be fipronil! Read the composition! The drug may contain permethrin - this aerosol cannot be used to treat rats! To use, just point the bottle at the rodent’s withers and press once. Check the drying of the drug

Until the medicine has dried, you should not allow the rat to lick or wash itself! Where there is the most scratching on the skin, you can wipe it with a cotton pad soaked in the medicine. After 10 days, repeat the treatment.

Prazicide complex - use drops on the withers

Attention! Do not use the anti-worm suspension, the name is the same, but for oral administration. A good remedy for any subcutaneous mites

You need to part the fur at the withers and drop 1 drop of medicine onto the skin. In the same way as in the case of previous drugs, we hold the rat in our hands until the medication dries completely.

How to avoid re-infection of rats with parasites

Prevention of ticks, ticks and fleas in rats:

• Wash your hands before handling your rat. Otherwise, you can easily bring her parasites - from the street or from the dog you just petted.
• Do not buy random bedding on the market (sawdust, hay), because... she may be infected. Only in briquettes and a high-quality analogue from a pet store.
• Create optimal living conditions for your rat. Parasites most often affect weakened animals kept in an inappropriate environment.
• Nutrition should be complete and varied.
• Clean your pet's cage frequently.

Finally, I will say that rat lovers are convinced that specific rat parasites are not dangerous to humans.

Fleas, lice and lice in hamsters

Fortunately, these parasites are rarely found in rodents. Hamsters can become infected with them if they come into contact with other animals affected by parasites, for example, a cat or dog. You can determine the presence of parasites in the fur of a small pet visually by parting a section of fur, as well as by the constant itching that the hamster experiences. But in general, the rodent’s behavior does not change, nor does its appetite.

You can rid your hamster of parasites using modern antiparasitic agents sold in pet stores or veterinary pharmacies.

Important: a week after the first treatment, the procedure must be repeated in order to destroy the hatched larvae (unless otherwise provided in the instructions for the drug). It is also necessary to treat the hamster cage and all the accessories in it. For treatment, you can use a bromocyclene solution.

How to get rid of fleas on a hamster's fur

At the moment, not every owner of a small rodent knows what to do if the hamster has various types of fleas. In this case, the pet owner does not need to panic, but should immediately contact the veterinarian who treats the animals.

It is the doctor who prescribes specific anti-flea medications. Then the pet owner buys ready-made insecticidal preparations.

Modern manufacturers produce a variety of insecticidal products. This allows the buyer to choose those drugs that are most convenient to use.

Treating all pets and your home for fleas

When fleas appear in an apartment, the tenant treats both all pets and the apartment itself.

When sanitizing a room in which fleas live on hamsters, the tenant performs the following actions:

• thoroughly vacuums his home, and then shakes out the vacuum cleaner (or throws out the disposable dust bag). A household member carries out such cleaning every day or at least 2 times in 7 days;
• vacuums a sofa or other furniture on which a cat or dog is sleeping, as well as carpets and dusty corners;
• After using the vacuum cleaner, he does a wet, thorough cleaning of his home.

When sanitizing his private household or apartment, a household member uses various insecticidal powders for indoor carpets or sprays (Raid, Combat, Raptor).

Then the pet owner dilutes 1 ampoule of this product (5 ml) with 3 liters of water and treats their home using a spray bottle.

When carrying out hamster sanitation, you need to keep in mind the following nuances:

• anti-flea sprays are effective for 2 weeks - 5 months;
• insecticidal drops are valid for a maximum of 1 month. They are designed for the specific weight of the pet. The household member squeezes the contents of the tube onto the skin of the cat or dog’s withers;
• Special flea shampoos have a short shelf life. Therefore, they are used only if fleas have already appeared on a cat or dog.

After the first treatment with insecticidal shampoo, the pet owner puts an anti-flea collar on the pet.

Hamster handling

Even if there are no cats or dogs in the house, hamsters still have fleas. In the event of a flea infestation, the rodent cannot avoid undergoing unpleasant disinsection. However, today there are practically no highly effective anti-flea products for such animals on sale.

Sellers of veterinary pharmacies often offer their clients those drugs that are made for dogs and cats, but their size is much larger than such rodents. After all, a hamster weighs approximately 50 grams.

This doctor prescribes the following highly effective anti-flea drugs for the hamster:

• aerosols;
• drops;
• powders.

Aerosol

When treating a hamster infected with fleas, its owner uses the following aerosols:

• "Bars" - fipronil 0.3%. To get rid of hamster fleas forever, the resident sprays 0.25 ml of this product on the rodent (presses the dispenser once);
• "BioVax";
• “Le Artist” is made from various plant components.

In such a situation, the resident sprays this product evenly over the hamster. Also, the owner of the animal sprinkles it on a cotton pad, and then wipes it over his pet, lifting its fur.

Drops

The drops are also a highly effective flea treatment for hamsters. When using this drug, the owner of the hamster drips 2-5 drops onto his withers and along the hamster's spine.

When treating a hamster for fleas, its owner uses the following drops:

• Celandine;
• Stronghold;
• Frontline;
• Petvital Canina Verminex.

Such insecticides not only instantly kill fleas, but also prevent re-infection of the hamster.

Powder

Not every rodent owner knows how to properly remove fleas from a hamster. This can be done using an insecticidal special powder such as anti-flea powder.

When this product is used correctly, the household powders and cleans the hamster’s fur, and then the small pests quickly die. Moreover, this powder is made of soft small particles that do not damage the hamster’s skin.

When treating a sick hamster, a household member uses the following powders:

• Savic Blue Cloud Dust (Savik);
• Insectal.

The powder is distributed in a thin layer over the entire body of the hamster (pollination occurs). The main thing is not to get into the hamster's mouth and nose.

Cage disinfestation

In addition to carrying out anti-flea treatment on the hamster itself at home, you also need to change its bedding - from old to new. Moreover, you can, for example, use a bedding made of cedar shavings, which repel fleas.

The cage and hamster accessories are thoroughly washed with hot running water and soap once every 7 days.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO BATH HAMSTERS? DO HAMSTERS HAVE FLEAS?

Scabies in hamsters

Scabies is a fairly common disease. It is caused by small parasites – scabies mites. They are so small that it is simply impossible to see them with the naked eye.

There are several types of scabies mites:

1) parasitic on the upper layer of the skin (also called itching);

2) cuticles, piercing the surface of the skin and getting to the blood and lymph, which is sucked;

3) skin beetles, which feed on dead areas in the form of dandruff that form on the skin.

These parasites pose a threat not only to the health of the hamster, but also to the person who has come into contact with the infected animal or objects from its cage. An animal can become infected only from a sick animal or through objects from an infected cage.

• severe itching;
• scratching areas of skin until they bleed;
• hair loss;
• local baldness;
• in the area of ​​the cheeks, ears and anus a crust appears in the form of a coating of powder, similar to scales;
• loss of appetite;
• apathetic, depressed state;
• aggressive behavior.

Untimely treatment of a hamster affected by scabies mites leads to infection of the wounds scratched until they bleed, and the animal may die in a couple of months, and in especially severe cases, the count goes on for weeks.

In this case, independent treatment is unacceptable; a consultation with a veterinarian is required with laboratory tests and a course of treatment, including thorough treatment of the cage and all items from it. The owner of a hamster should be aware that treatment is carried out with antiparasitic drugs, which should be calculated by the veterinarian, taking into account the weight of the pet, but still very often during the treatment there is a high risk of intoxication.

Veterinary laboratory

Many veterinary centers offer testing services, but some do not have their own laboratory and send biomaterial to other clinics.

This significantly lengthens the time it takes for the results to be ready, and due to long transportation, it can affect the accuracy of the information received.

The Blagovet veterinary clinic has its own laboratory, therefore it guarantees quick results and the absence of errors. Experienced employees constantly undergo retraining, attend forums and seminars, and introduce new technologies at the veterinary hospital.

Can a hamster have worms?

Internal parasites - worms - very often parasitize animals, and hamsters, alas, are no exception. You need to be wary if your pet shows anxiety for no apparent reason, has become not as active as before, problems with stool are common, tremors periodically pass through its body, previously tame, the hamster suddenly begins to show aggression.

The presence of parasites can be determined in a veterinary laboratory using stool analysis. If the fears are confirmed, the pet should be treated immediately, since worms can cause severe intoxication of the animal’s body. It is best to contact a veterinarian for help, since, given the small size of the rodent, only a specialist can correctly calculate the dosage of the anthelmintic drug.

This is the name given to parasites (more than 10 different species) that live in the tissues and organs of an animal. They belong to the classes of trematodes, cestodes, and nematodes.

Intestinal diseases can provoke cestodes; trematodes affect the liver, gall bladder, and bile ducts. Nematodes parasitize various internal organs and cause severe illness.

There are 2 types of worms: tapeworms and roundworms. Round ones are usually similar in shape to white or pink threads. They parasitize in the lungs, liver, and intestines.

Upon careful examination of the feces of a sick animal, you can notice the testicles of worms. Infection occurs when hamsters are fed stale food, through contact with a sick animal, or through dirty water. It is necessary to conduct tests to find out what type of parasites are in the pet’s body and begin appropriate treatment. To do this, you need to contact a veterinarian.

Tapeworms consist of individual small segments and have the appearance of a thin ribbon. Those segments that are located further from the head of the parasite are better developed; larvae develop in them over time. These segments then break off and come out along with the feces.

When the membranes of the testicles, which have entered the digestive tract of the animal, break through, the embryos of the parasites can damage the intestinal walls, enter the bloodstream and disperse throughout the body. This sometimes causes the appearance of entire cavities in the internal organs of the animal, which are filled with embryos of worms, which pose a danger not only to animals, but also to humans.

Some types of helminths come out with feces and enter the animal’s body again, only as adults, along with food and water.

Hamsters are most often affected by tapeworms Hymenolepis nana and Hymenolepis diminuta, roundworms Heterakis spumosa, pinworms, and worms of some other species.

Tapeworms undergo a developmental cycle with an intermediate host, such as an insect. They cause severe invasive diseases in domestic animals. As a result of severe damage, exhaustion of the body develops.

Roundworms are localized in the cecum.

When infected with pinworms, intestinal disorders are sometimes observed, but most often there are no special symptoms.

Like all living creatures, hamsters are susceptible to disease. Their life is short, and the disease in hamsters always progresses very quickly. Therefore, it is important to notice in time that something is wrong with your pet and quickly provide help. Find out in advance where the veterinarian who treats ornamental rodents sees you. It would be a good idea to study the symptoms of diseases to which hamsters are susceptible. This will not only increase the chances of saving the baby, but will also help avoid infection yourself. After all, a person can become infected with many diseases from animals. People can get the same disease that hamsters get. This article tells you what diseases afflict Syrian, Djungarian, Campbell and other breeds of hamsters.

Ticks

There are two types of mites on guinea pigs - subcutaneous and scabies. Each has characteristic features both in manifestation and in treatment.

Scabies type of mite

The difference between this type of mites lies in the fact that they can cause severe itching of the animal’s skin. The danger for the animal lies in the fact that not only the blood will be infected, but the animal may also die due to stress. The main symptoms of subcutaneous mite infestation include the following:

• skin itching;
• severe hair loss;
• redness and dryness of the skin;
• high temperature, chills;
• refusal to eat completely or partially.

Primary lesions in guinea pigs include the head, back, sides and shoulders. But if you do not pay attention to the problem in time, they can spread throughout the animal’s body, causing even more discomfort. It’s even worse if a pregnant female is infected with parasites. In this case, there is a risk of miscarriages and complications during pregnancy. Ticks can spread to mumps both from humans and from contact with other animals. You can only determine whether there are mites on your pet's skin using a scraping procedure. It is worth noting that treatment should apply not only to the infected animal, but also to its entire environment.

Along with the injections, it is necessary to thoroughly rinse the cage with a solution containing lime sulphide or chlorine.

Fur type mite

The difference from the previous species is that it settles, as a rule, on the surface of the skin. Symptoms of infection with the disease in an animal are similar to previous species. Only peeling of the skin is also observed. Refusal of water and restlessness of the animal are typical symptoms of a tick. If the infection is severe, painful ulcers may appear on the skin, and fur will begin to fall out at an increased rate. It is worth noting that the fur type of tick is transmitted only through direct contact between a healthy and sick animal. The treatment method is similar to the previous analogue. The room where the sick animal is located should be treated with a special anti-tick compound.

Classification of diseases

According to the type, hamster diseases, like those in humans, are divided into contagious and non-contagious. The following diseases are contagious.

1. Bacterial infections. Cause gastrointestinal, skin and other inflammatory processes.
2. Viral infections. They affect the eyes and mucous membranes and cause tumors.
3. Fungal. Mainly they cause skin diseases.
4. Infection with parasites (fleas, ticks, worms).

Some of these diseases can be transmitted to people. You need to be extremely careful when contacting a sick animal and take it to a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Only a doctor, after performing tests, will make a final diagnosis and give a prognosis for the possibility of recovery. Unfortunately, many diseases are fatal to a hamster. But in any case, a loving owner will do everything in his power to ensure that the hamster recovers.

Non-communicable diseases include non-communicable diseases.

1. Injuries and bruises caused by falling from a height or fighting with other cage occupants.
2. Metabolic disease. For example, diabetes mellitus, which most often affects Djungarian hamsters.
3. Diseases caused by stressful situations. These include heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

Diseases in Syrian hamsters are most often associated with gastrointestinal infections.

Types of tumors

Depending on their location, bumps can be external (on the skin and subcutaneous tissue, limbs) and internal (uterine, intestinal tumors).

Based on how neoplasms develop, they are conventionally divided into 3 types:

1. Benign. Caused by unlimited cell division, which can be triggered by injury, a virus, or a malfunction of the genetic program. Such neoplasms are usually stable and look like small subcutaneous balls. If you lightly press on the lump, it moves to the side. The density of a benign tumor in hamsters can be anything: hard, soft, or cartilage-like. Such lumps must be removed before they develop into mixed and then malignant neoplasms.
2. Malignant. They can develop immediately or gradually change from benign. Malignant cells divide extremely quickly and in all directions; they are not localized, so they metastasize to various organs of the animal. Due to metastases, it is almost impossible to defeat the disease. The occurrence of malignant lumps may be due to viruses, poor nutrition (the carcinogenic effect of fats) or violations of the genetic program.
3. Inflamed tissue. The swelling is not caused by cell division and tissue proliferation, but by other factors. This may be an accumulation of pus (abscess) or lymph in certain areas of the body.

In hamsters, inflammatory processes and benign neoplasms are treatable. A malignant tumor manifests itself already in the later stages of the disease, when the “frenzied” cells have already spread throughout the body. Therefore, cancer for a hamster is a death sentence.

This is what a cancerous tumor on a hamster's stomach looks like.

When to sound the alarm

How to understand that a hamster is sick. If the animal is healthy, it is active, it has smooth shiny fur, clear, clean eyes and a good appetite. But if you notice that your pet is behaving unusually, take immediate action. Your hamster is sick if some of the following symptoms are noticeable:

• eats poorly or refuses food altogether;
• eyes become watery or festering;
• frequent loose stools;
• constipation, dry stool or no stool at all;
• blood dripping from the anus;
• difficulty or hoarse breathing, cough;
• nasal discharge or excessive drooling;
• wet or dull, matted fur;
• ulcers, wounds, peeling skin, bald spots on the skin;
• tumors, bloating;
• lethargy, low mobility;
• the hamster is trembling, although the room is warm.

An animal's underweight may also be a sign of illness. To find out if your pet is sick, weigh your pet periodically. The weight of an adult Syrian is about 90 g, the weight of a Djungarian is at least 30 g.

Contagious diseases in hamsters

An animal can become infected with a bacterial or viral infection in several ways.

1. From other sick animals through direct contact or through its waste products.
2. Through contaminated food or water.
3. Insect bites.
4. Through litter and uncollected excrement.

Respiratory infections are activated by hypothermia, stress and lack of vitamins in the body. You can tell that a hamster is sick by its behavior. He will become lethargic and apathetic. You may notice discharge from the nose. The young, strong hamster will recover in a few days. In weak individuals with reduced immunity, the disease can develop into pneumonia. The animal will cough and breathe heavily. In a few days he will die.

Tuberculosis develops in a weakened body when the tuberculosis bacillus enters the body. There are two forms of this disease, depending on the method of infection: pulmonary and intestinal. With the pulmonary form of tuberculosis, the hamster experiences a cough, shortness of breath, and decreased appetite. The intestinal form is characterized by severe diarrhea. This disease of hamsters, unfortunately, is incurable.

To prevent tuberculosis, the animal must receive adequate nutrition with the required amount of vitamins, the cage must be kept clean at all times, and the room must be periodically ventilated. It is necessary to avoid contact with sick animals and people. Not only can humans become infected with certain illnesses from a hamster, but rodents can also suffer from contact with a sick person.

Colibacillosis is a highly contagious disease. If the sick animal has been in contact with other pets, they will also have to be treated. The sooner you see a doctor, the more successful the treatment will be. Prevention of the disease - maintaining cleanliness in the cage. As well as keeping each animal in a separate cage.

Cystitis. A wet tail can be an indicator not only of colibacillosis, but also of cystitis - inflammation of the genitourinary tract. The animal experiences pain when urinating and is constantly thirsty. The disease occurs from hypothermia. Maintain the optimal temperature in the room where the baby lives, do not place the hamster’s cage in a draft. Cystitis can also be treated with antibiotics.

Diplococcosis is an infectious disease of the respiratory tract caused by diplococcal bacteria. Symptoms: weakness, lethargy, refusal to eat. The hamster is shaking and trembling, and his nose is running. Death occurs within 2–3 days if a special antibacterial serum is not administered in time.

Salmonellosis is an acute intestinal disease caused by Salmonella Escherichia coli. It also leads to death if treatment is not started in time.

Pneumonia is a common complication after respiratory infections if the patient does not receive proper treatment and proper nutrition. Or if the animal has a lack of vitamins in the body and lowered immunity. The disease can occur after severe hypothermia.

Conjunctivitis is an inflammatory process of the eyes and eyelids. Eye diseases in Djungarians occur from hypothermia or are of a bacterial nature.

Demodicosis is a disease caused by a microscopic subcutaneous mite. The animal itches and the hair falls out. The disease is treated with an injection of ivermectin.

Ringworm is a fungal disease. Scaly spots appear on the body and limbs of the rodent, and the fur falls out. The disease is contagious and can be transmitted to humans. The doctor will make a scraping and prescribe treatment with ointments and special creams.

Basic information

As a rule, ectoparasites do especially well in situations where animals are kept in close and crowded conditions. In addition (and unfortunately), lice and fleas often appear on animals that often participate in exhibitions. The reason for this is unsatisfactory veterinary control and the lack of disinsection of exhibition premises after receiving the next batch of animals. From pet to pet (most often) parasites are transmitted through direct contact, but for the same fleas, infection occurs when a cat/dog ends up in a room where there are parasite larvae.

The life cycle of bloodsuckers of different species can differ significantly from each other. So, unlike fleas, lice survive their entire life cycle on an animal. Adult female insects lay eggs, sticking them tightly to the hair shafts. In the literature they are often called “nits”. Since they have a “camouflage” color, only an owner with certain experience can see signs of infection at first glance. Nymphs emerge from the eggs, an intermediate stage. They look like adult lice, reduced in size several times. They molt several times and become adults. The entire development process from egg to adult takes 2-4 weeks. The life cycle of lice eaters is approximately the same.

What about fleas? Given their prevalence in the external environment, it is not surprising that these parasites are most often the source of problems for animals. Adult females lay eggs, which, unlike lice, are not firmly attached to the fur. They fall, rolling into a variety of cracks and potholes in the floor. When the air temperature is positive and the humidity is at least 65%, the eggs ripen and the larvae emerge from them.

The latter begin to feed intensively, and almost any organic matter is suitable for them to eat: rotten leaves of indoor plants, feces, dried skin, etc. After going through several molting cycles, the larva pupates, and then an adult flea emerges from the cocoon. The full development cycle, from the moment of oviposition to hatching (in the best case) takes at least 15 days. The larval stage and, subsequently, the cocoon, can last for weeks or even months, which ensures the continuity of the infection process. This is how entomosis in cats and dogs became the most common parasitic diseases...

The biggest problem caused by lice, fleas and lice eaters is severe itching, blood loss and loss of rest, appetite and sleep. Anemia can be very serious in young puppies and kittens. Parasites can infect your pets with helminths, which are also very dangerous for their body. They are also mechanical carriers of many infectious diseases.

Non-communicable diseases

Non-contagious diseases of Djungarian and other breeds of hamsters primarily include injuries. They are injured mainly due to the fault of their owners. Rodents should not be allowed to walk on a table or other surface from which the homa could fall. When purchasing and installing a running wheel, it is necessary to exclude narrow (less than 0.5 cm) gaps so that the baby does not stick his paw in there and injure himself. If you have several dwarfs, place them in different cages. Otherwise, they will fight and may also injure each other.

Poor nutrition may be the cause

• dental diseases;
• inflammation of the cheek pouches;
• food poisoning;
• hemorrhoids (if blood drips from the anus, your pet may have a fissure there).

Non-communicable diseases also include complications of pregnancy and pathological childbirth in females. Sometimes blood under the female's tail appears as a result of a miscarriage.

Metabolic disorders

Metabolism is the proper functioning of all body systems. Food processing, energy production, removal of unnecessary and harmful products. The central nervous system is responsible for all this, but the glands that secrete hormones have a huge influence on metabolic processes. These include the thyroid and pancreas, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, and gonads. Poor nutrition, poor environment, and hereditary factors affect the functioning of these organs. Violation of their normal functioning leads to a malfunction of the body as a whole. Diseases of Djungarian hamsters are often associated with metabolic disorders.

Diabetes mellitus can develop due to excessive consumption of carbohydrates. Hereditary predisposition to the disease also plays a role. You can find out that a hamster has contracted this disease by the characteristic smell of acetone, which comes from the rodent's saliva and urine. But only a doctor can make a final diagnosis by doing a blood test. Prevention of disease in Djungarian hamsters is a balanced diet, eliminating sugar from the diet, good care and an active lifestyle.

Stroke can also be classified as a disease that occurs due to metabolic disorders. With age and as a result of poor nutrition, cholesterol plaques are deposited on the walls of blood vessels, which prevent the normal passage of blood. At some point, the plaques completely block the vessel, it bursts, and hemorrhage occurs.

If your hamster is shaking or having convulsions, the end is probably near.

Sometimes attentive owners are concerned that the rodent has a yellow sore on its stomach. In fact, this is a scent gland, with the help of which the male marks his territory.

Medicines for weak hamsters

Sometimes situations happen that the hamster still gets sick. This may be the cause of his birth defects, not necessarily due to poor care or oversight.

A veterinarian should prescribe medications; it is unsafe to treat a hamster with medications yourself.

The animal's body is much smaller than that of a human. Only a specialist can make an accurate calculation of the portion of a medicinal product or medicinal supplement (vitamins) for an animal based on age, weight, and state of weakness (immunity).

Don't take risks with your pets. Seek advice from specialized institutions.

Diseases caused by stress

Stress factors for a small rodent can include loud screams, the operation of various electrical appliances, other pets and much more. Diseases that develop as a result of stress in Syrian and other breeds of hamsters:

• eczema (ulcers and peeling of the skin, hair loss);
• heart attack, cardiac arrest;
• complete or partial paralysis (can occur if the animal is very frightened).

To avoid such troubles, never yell at your baby or punish him for any pranks. Do not place the cage near a TV or speakers. Isolate the rodent from cats and dogs if they live in your home. If you just acquired a furry puppy, give him a few days to get used to his new place of residence, do not immediately start playing with him or raising him.