Why is my hamster drinking more water than usual but acting normal?

This usually isn't normal. He could have a urinary tract infection, diabetes or other type of problem. I would have your vet take a look at him. Since he is so small I want to make sure he isn't going to become dehydrated. If something is causing him to drink a lot then chances are his body isn't able to keep up with his hydration. Your vet will be able to do an exam, assess hduration, and do blood work if needed. I hope this helps!

Short answer yes. Hamsters may suffer from a condition called “wet tail” which usually manifest itself with watery stools. Because their body doesn't absorb water properly they tend to drink a lot. This condition is usually fatal if not treated ASAP. Of course there could be many more reasons for a hamster to suddenly drink more (like change of food or kidney problems) but “wet tail” is the most common condition to cause this symptom. I would advice to take him to the vet, the sooner the better. Food luck!

Thanks for reaching out about Hazel and am sorry for your loss. Increased water consumption could have been due to kidney, liver, uterine or endocrine problems. There is also psychogenic polydipsia (behavioral increased water consumption). Without an autopsy, an answer can't been given. Sorry again for your loss.

Thanks for reaching out about Hoover. Increased water consumption could be caused by renal disease, but also adrenal disease, bladder infection/stone, or other problems. A veterinary visit is needed to arrive at a diagnosis and proceed with a treatment plan. If kidney disease, try offering water with a syringe, but if a bladder stone, this could make things worse. See a veterinarian. Good luck.

Hello, I'm sorry to hear that KitKat hasn't been acting like himself recently. Anytime an animal has a change in appetite or thirst and is acting lethargic, I recommend a physical exam from a veterinarian. Increased thirst may be a sign of an endocrine disorder, kidney disease, or a reproductive tract disease. Lethargy and inactivity is often a sign of pain and feeling ill. I hope this is helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi, you didn't mention how old Rice is, but adult Robo hamsters are prone to endocrine illnesses that can be caused by internal tumors. These may cause them to have behavioral changes, and drink more/ urinate more and sometimes lose weight or develop patchy hair loss. Sadly for these little critters there is not a great deal of medical options and testing for illness is very challenging. There are some specialist "exotics" vets who have facilities to test for certain illnesses but they are few and far between, it may be worth doing an internet search for one in your area. You may wish to adapt her cage to prevent her jumping or falling from a height.

Hi there! I'm so sorry to hear about Cupcake's troubles. Syrian hamsters are considered geriatric at 2 years of age. They can develop kidney issues or other illnesses that may make them sick. He may be displaying the odd behavior because he isn't feeling well. I would take him in to see a veterinarian who handles and treats hamsters to see if he needs medical attention. You can also try the water bottle again and maybe get a smaller on that he can't use to climb out of his cage. Or reinforce the cage in that area to make it harder for him to escape. Best of luck!