Why is my hamster breathing hard, stomach moving, and acting sick?

Thanks for reaching out about Dexter. Early respiratory infections usually start with nasal discharge or sneezing, advancing to open mouth or difficulty breathing. Hopefully your veterinary visit went well. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Dexter. No, on the inhaler as she probably doesn't have asthma and overdosing can be serious. Animals usually suffer from dehydration prior to starvation. Offer water via a syringe, then can moisten pellets and offer also. Taking out the wheel is a good idea. If not improved after 48 hours for medication, a re-visit to the veterinarian is recommended. Good luck.

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!

It sounds as if your hamster is very sick. Usually when hamsters become so ill in such a short period of time there is not a good outcome. There could be several different things going on that have caused Comet to become ill so quickly. My best recommendation is to have Comet examined by a veterinarian to give him the best chance of recovery. I hope this helps. Best of luck. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I am sorry to hear about Chippy. These are concerning signs and I would recommend getting Chippy into the vet as soon as possible. We would be concerned depending on his age about a respiratory infection or a heart issue. He may be able to be treated with antibiotics or other medication if an infection is the cause. Ensure he is in a draft free room with no air pollutants such as smoke, candles, air fresheners and has very clean cage with minimal dust (carefresh style paper shavings are the best) which can irritate the respiratory tract and get him to the vet right away.

Hello, I'm so sorry to hear your hamster is not feeling well. The photo looks like she may have some diarrhea, which may help to explain why she has been lifting her bum up (tender) and has been lethargic. Her increased breathing rate may be a sign of pain. Unfortunately, two years old is considered elderly for a hamster so we also need to think about cancer as a possible cause as well. I would take her to a hamster-friendly vet as soon as possible. They may be able pinpoint a cause, and at least to provide medication to help with the diarrhea and pain, and fluids to help rehydrate her. I hope this helps.

Thanks for reaching out about Hazel and including photos. I assume she has had access to a male in the last 2 weeks. If labored breathing and pregnant, than probably close to delivery. All other hamsters should be removed to allow her to have quiet. If not pregnant, a respiratory disease, abdominal mass or infection need be considered and a veterinary visit is highly recommended, ASAP. Good luck.