Why is my 2-year-old hamster drinking his pee and peeing in water?

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!

Thanks for reaching out about Cloud. Increased water consumption can be an indication of early kidney disease, but other conditions such as a urinary tract infection, diabetes, liver disease, uterine disease and behavioral changes can also be relevant. If the problem persists, seek a visit with a veterinarian. Good luck.

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.

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 Molly. Aging hamsters can often suffer from adrenal diseases which can lead to polydypsia/polyuria (drinking and urinating often), dermal conditions and decreased immune system. That could have manifested in a proliferation of previously existing mites. Often mite treatment need to be repeated to end in remission. Testing for adrenal disease if difficult, probably best investigated with an ultrasound. Treatment is even more problematic. Trying to treat the resulting symptoms (scratching) might be more effective. Good luck.

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.