Is my hamster's heavy breathing from crooked teeth or bar chewing?

If she will allow, gently look in her mouth to see if her teeth are overgrown or maloccluded. If so, she will need to see your veterinarian. You can also get her to empty her cheek pouches with gentle pressure on the sides of her face. Sometimes, a hamster will keep food in there too long and it will begin to rot. This rotting food will smell and could lead to infection. If she is lethargic or not eating, have her seen by your vet to diagnose and treat infection or injury.

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!

Thanks for reaching out about Chewy. A lower respiratory problem is more likely, such as pneumonia. But heart, liver, renal and other illnesses can lead to respiratory congestion. If doing this poorly, a veterinary visit is recommended ASAP. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Vasia and including photos. It is impossible for us to determine how long he will remain with you but if having breathing difficulties, a veterinary visit could prolong his quality of life. Respiratory infections or heart disease are possible manageable conditions. Good luck.

If you notice any increase in respiratory rate, nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing, then this is probably a respiratory infection. Respiratory infections are fairly common in hamsters. If Chestnut is not exhibiting any of these symptoms and is otherwise doing ok, I would just monitor him for now. If you do suspect a respiratory infection Chestnut will need to be examined by your vet and placed on antibiotics. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

I would say Luna sounds stressed for some reason. Teeth chattering is how many hamsters communicate that they do not want to be bothered or touched. I suggest you refer to the links below for some ideas of what to do for her. You could also try some Rescue Remedy. ( http://www.hamster-club.com/behaviour.asp ) ( https://www.hssv.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Hamster-Care.pdf ) ( https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bach-Pet-Rescue-Remedy-10/dp/B0030NWZUC )

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.