My hamster gained weight, has a round belly, and bloody urine. Why?

Thanks for reaching out about Margo and including pictures. The distention of the abdominal cavity is not a normal process. Abdominal size increases can be caused by fluid build up called ascites (liver, renal, heart diseases) or an organ enlargement. Kidney enlargement due to polycystic renal disease or cancer is not unusual in hamsters. A veterinary visit is recommended for diagnosis and treatment, quality of life can be improved. Good luck.

It sounds like either a bloat or an internal tumor, in both cases it's very bad news for her as 'hamsters usually do not recover from these conditions. you need to take her to the vet in order to have it checked ASAP.

Swollen abdomen in a hamster is a sign for concern it could be variety of causes, in older hamster such as Belle the more common causes include: tumor in abdomen, blockage of the intestines, kidney failure, and congestive heart failure. I suggest to take Belle to a vet for examination to try and give you the underlying cause and also due to the possibility of her quality of life issue (eating , drinking, in pain etc). The vet may consider to put a small needle into the abdomen and see if they can drain any fluid off. Whether there is fluid from a tumor or from heart failure.

Thanks for reaching out about Tosha. There is the possibility that this is not a gastrointestinal issue, or an infection. Female hamsters can also have reproductive problems (uterine neoplasia, pyometras and more. Urinary problems can also cause similar clinical signs. Your local veterinarian should be contacted again, as diagnostic tests might need to be performed to achieve a diagnosis. Try not to give mineral oil or yogurt again, as this can cause serious gastrointestinal upset. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Hattie. The suggestion would be to have some diagnostic test performed, such as radiographs and blood work. Spondylosis or back problems are common in aging hamster, and could be managed by anti-inflammatory medications. Kidney problems, intestinal infections or parasites can also be investigated. Dental disease can reduce appetite. Uterine neoplasia is not uncommon in female hamsters. So a diagnosis is needed prior to recommending a treatment plan. Good luck.

He should be examined by your veterinarian. If he has "wet tail" (proliferative ileitis), he will need treatment and supportive care. Keep his cage clean. Change bedding daily if necessary. Keep him warm and as stress free as possible. Discontinue feeding any treats, fruits or vegetables until he recovers.

If you feel his weight has changed quickly then I would be concerned that he could have something concerning going on such as fluid in the belly, or even a tumor. Of course there is always the chance that he is just overweight. I would encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian. They can let you know if they have any concerns on what they find on physical exam. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.