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My hamster has respiratory illness. Can it spread to others nearby?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Hamster | Male | 1 year and 8 months old

Someone said my hamster Oscar probably has Respiratory illness and i was just wondering if it’s possible for him to give it to my other hamsters? they are in separate cages but sorta close by.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Andrea

Veterinarian

Published on January 2nd, 2019

If your hamster is older and has never been ill, he is less likely to have a contagious respiratory illness. If the hamsters have all been near each other for a long time, this also decreases the chance they could spread illness. If you have recently gotten new hamsters, they are more likely to transfer something...it could be spread through the air or from you touching one cage then another. Wash your hands between handling and handle the sick hamster last. He should go to the vet to get checked out and see what might be going on with him.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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