Hamsters are one of the most popular pet choices for children among animals that live in cages or enclosures, and they are commonly found in households around the world. If you own a hamster, however, you may not be aware of the health care needs and requirements of hamsters. You may also not know how important it is to find a hamster vet in Miami, FL.
Below, we’ll explain the importance of finding a vet for your hamster. We’ll also show you several reasons why you might someday need to take your hamster to the vet so you can understand what to expect if this ever occurs.
Most Common Hamster Pets
Hamsters come in several different varieties, but there are a few that comprise almost all of the hamsters kept as pets. Although these are different species of hamster, they all share enough in common that their veterinary needs do not differ that much from type to type.
The most common type of hamster kept as a pet is the Syrian hamster, and it is probably what most people think of when they imagine a hamster. Other common types include Dwarf Winter White Russian and Dwarf Campbell Russian hamsters as well as Chinese Striped hamsters and Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters. Of these, Chinese hamsters tend to be the most difficult to care for.
Types of Hamster Vet Care
Hamsters require regular vet care just like any other pet. Below are some of the most common types of care that we offer for hamsters in Miami, FL.
Acute Illness and Injury
Hamsters may contract sudden, unexpected illnesses or become injured, even within the relatively safe confines of their cages and enclosures. If anything like this happens to your hamster, it’s important to call us and bring them in as soon as possible for treatment.
Ear and Eye Health
An early sign of many illnesses in hamsters is oozing from the eyes and ears. If your vet notices either of these issues, then your hamster will need to be checked for other symptoms. We may also perform other tests including blood work to determine what’s causing your hamster to be sick.
Lumps and Bumps
Your hamster vet will check your pet carefully for lumps and bumps on her skin or growths within their body. Hamsters may develop tumors, and if this occurs, your hamster will need to be treated and may require a biopsy as well. We will let you know whether or not a lump requires removal or treatment.
Behavioral Assistance
Hamsters are generally very docile creatures, especially with humans. If your hamster suddenly shows signs of behavioral problems such as aggression toward humans, this may be a sign that they’re sick. Your vet will check her thoroughly to determine the underlying cause of this behavioral health concern.
Dental Checks
Hamsters don’t usually need significant dental health care like some other rodent pets, but they do still need to have their teeth checked regularly by an expert. Depending on what you feed your hamster as well as their own eating and chewing habits, your vet may need to trim her teeth periodically to keep them healthy and ensure they continue eating the way they’re supposed to.
Reasons to See a Hamster Vet
There can be many reasons to bring your hamster to the vet, and below are some of the most common that we see. Don’t hesitate to call us or schedule an appointment if you’re unsure about the health of your hamster.
Urine and feces changes: Hamster urine and feces will change color, shape, texture, and smell if the hamster is sick. If you notice any changes like this that last longer than one day—and that you know are not related to the food she has been eating—your hamster may need to take a trip to the vet.
Scruffy fur: If your hamster is hunching often in the corner and has scruffy fur, this is a sign that they may be sick. Hamsters’ coats become scruffy and unkempt when they aren’t feeling well. Take your hamster to the vet if you notice this occurring for more than a day or two, or along with other symptoms.
Excessive thirst: If your hamster is drinking a lot of water and urinating often, they may have diabetes. Diabetes is very common in hamsters and is much more likely in obese hamsters. Your vet will give you instructions on how to best feed your pet to prevent this condition or to maintain her health if they have already developed it.
Weight loss: Hamsters that suddenly lose a lot of weight are likely sick. Sudden, unexpected weight loss in hamsters may be a sign of digestive illness, respiratory disease, or dental health problems, among other conditions.
Elderly pet: If your hamster is getting old, they’re going to need more vet care and assistance than when they were younger. Hamsters over a year old may develop ulcers, blood clots, and tumors, which your vet can help you manage.
As you can see, having a hamster involves more vet care than many pet owners may realize. There are several issues that may cause problems for hamsters, and a hamster vet can help with all of them.
When you choose us as your hamster vet in Miami, FL, you’ll be able to provide your pet with the highest quality vet care available and ensure they live a happy, healthy life.