Why does my hamster have a red flab under its chin or neck?

That area could be inflamed because of diarrhoea for example or because of a skin infection (commonly bacterial infection or due to mites infestation). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately.

It could possibly be mange (mites in the hair follicles), ringworm (a fungal infection), or a bacterial skin infection. As ringworm is contagious to people and can spread rapidly, I recommend bringing your hamster to a vet for an examination and diagnostics based on the appearance of the lesions. In the meantime I would recommend handling your hamster with gloves and bathing with an antibacterial/antifungal shampoo such as Malaseb shampoo if you have access to this without a prescription where you live.

This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

It could be some minor irritation or infection Keep the area clean and dry. Keep the bedding clean and dry. Monitor the spot for rapid change or growth. If necessary, see your veterinarian for an exam and treatment.

That looks like a wound of some type. Maybe from another hamster or a toy or bar in the cage? There could also be a small mass or cyst that's open. Keep that area clean and have a vet check that out in case he needs antibiotics.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! From your description, it sounds like Beta may have some masses, which are increasing in size and possibly spreading. These can be cancerous, skin infections, or insect bites. I recommend taking your hamster to the vet, who can take small samples of these areas and determine exactly what is going on. You may elect to have these masses removed completely, as well.

This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths.