My female hamster is bleeding but acting normal. Should I see a vet?

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear that Lily is not doing well. Bleeding from the rectal area can be caused by several issues. If you're sure the blood is coming from her rectum and not from her urethra or vagina, she may have an intestinal problem, like constipation or a parasite. It's also possible that she has a common hamster condition called wet tail, if she also has loose stools. Wet tail is severe diarrhea that is sometimes accompanied by bloody stools in certain severe cases, and is caused by a bacterial infection. It can be deadly, so acquiring treatment by a veterinarian is important to ensure survival. If the blood could be coming from the vaginal or urethral area, she could have a uterine or urinary tract infection that is causing the bleeding. These openings are very close to each other in female hamsters, so it can be easy to mistake one for the other. All of these conditions require the assistance of a veterinarian to get Lily better. If the bleeding is prolific of if Lily is also lethargic, she may need to be seen right away. There is an exotic veterinarian near you that can help: Animal and Exotic Medical Center 18962 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Lutz, FL 33548 (813) 269-5200 In the meantime, keep Lily warm and calm. There is not likely much that you can do for her at home safely aside from keeping her rectal area clean. Good luck, and I hope Lily gets well soon!

With the history of acting normal, I would be an infection in her bladder is likely although a bleeding disorder is possible but rare. Antibiotic will generally clear up the infection quickly. Bladder infections are uncomfortable so I would recommend to get Olive seen by a vet quickly. The doctor will also check for any signs of bruising and rule out a bleeding issue. I hope Olive gets back to normal quickly!

I can see that Kiwi has what appears to be a dilated anus. This can be associated with a rectal prolapse, when a portion of the rectum everts to the outside. Parasites, high fiber diets, and increased abdominal pressure can cause this. I recommend having Kiwi seen by a vet as soon as possible, as this condition is likely uncomfortable for Kiwi. In the meantime, I recommend making sure she has plenty of soft, moistened food and monitoring her for signs such as hunched posture and weight loss. I hope this helps and that all is well!

Thanks for reaching out about Peko. Hamsters (and all other rodents) do not menstrate. Check the toes nails for bleeding. If you find a toe nail that is bleeding, and has not stopped on its own, a coagulant used for dog nails works well (such as Quik Stop). This should only be used for nail, not for any other lesions. If bleeding from some other place, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

I'm sorry to hear that Tracy isn't feeling well. Certainly the jump in temperature may have effected her, but good that you are working to fix that. Blood from the genital area is quite worrying. It may be that she is a little dehydrated with the heat and her stools are firmer causing a little bleeding. However, it could also indicate an issue in the intestinal tract such as infection. Likewise the blood could be coming from the vulva and be related to a urinary or even reproductive tract issue. Unless she is much improved today I would take her to the vet as she will likely require treatment that is not available at home.

I can see that your hamster is hunched and her fur is raised. Her labored breathing is cause for concern. It can be caused by infections or masses, and requires veterinary attention right away. The blood you identified can be caused by bloody stool, or even a rectal prolapse, both of which are serious medical conditions. She should be seen by a vet as soon as possible, as she may require supportive care to be stabilized. I hope all is well!

No, hamsters do not get periods. If your hamster has a bloody discharge from her vulva, she may have a UTI or a uterine infection. She should then be seen by a veterinarian that is experienced in treating hamsters.