My hamster is very sick and acting strange. What should I do?

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.

I would be concerned that Snow has a wound on the nose, and that she sounds like she is having difficulty breathing. If you have noticed this with a change of bedding, I would recommend removing the bedding and replacing it, or you can utilize towels or fleece for a period of time. It would be ideal to have Snow evaluated by a veterinarian - they may recommend treatment with topical or oral antibiotics, depending on the severity of the wound. If you are unable to take her to a veterinarian initially, I would recommend keeping a close eye on her breathing abilities. Additionally, if any discharge, crusting, inflammation/reddening, or swelling occurs, I would strongly advise her to be taken to a veterinarian. Please do not give Snow any human medications, as many of them can be harmful to our furry friends. I hope that gives you a place to start, and I hope Snow feels better soon.

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!

It sounds like Kiwi is very sick, and I think she needs to see a vet now. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like she is having a lot of issues right now that need veterinary evaluation and treatment. I recommend that you have her evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to take a look at all these abnormalities you described so that therapy can be recommended accordingly. Good luck!

This sounds like Trico is pretty ill and should be seen by your vet or at an ER clinic ASAP. Moving her to a travel carrier or shoebox with ventilation that is warm, dark and quiet can help keep her calm and get her transported to the vet immediately for care.

Hello, I'm so sorry to hear your hamster is not feeling well. The photo looks like she may have some diarrhea, which may help to explain why she has been lifting her bum up (tender) and has been lethargic. Her increased breathing rate may be a sign of pain. Unfortunately, two years old is considered elderly for a hamster so we also need to think about cancer as a possible cause as well. I would take her to a hamster-friendly vet as soon as possible. They may be able pinpoint a cause, and at least to provide medication to help with the diarrhea and pain, and fluids to help rehydrate her. I hope this helps.