My old hamster has an everted cheek pouch. Is vet treatment safe?

Hello. It is possible to try & reposition the cheek pouch under anesthesia, but unless the conditions that caused it are addressed, it may happen again. Normally, we just recommend amputating the pouch & sewing the edges closed. Cost, unfortunately, is based on who is willing to do the surgery, & general costs in your area. Just start calling around the vets in your area to find who is best to help little Buttercup. But I would not leave it alone as it will become traumatized, eventually necrotic, & this is a sad way to die. Hope you can help her soon. Take care.

I can't really see properly as the pictures are very blurry but it is likely to be his cheek pouch that is protruding outside, you will have to take him to the vet ASAP, the pouch will need to either been sutured back inside or removed surgically.

Thanks for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. The hole might have been caused by a perforation or an abscess that opened up. The best recommendation would be to see a veterinarian. If not, try and keep the wound clean with a warm washcloth. Do not apply anything topical such as Neosporin and this will upset the normal bacterial flora of the intestinal tract, if he grooms and ingests some. Monitor to make sure he is eating well and not loosing weight. If kept clean, it could heal up on its own. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Cooper and including a photo. Impacted or infected cheek pouches are not uncommon. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Try massaging the cheek pouch in an attempt to empty it. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Mango and including a photo. With the picture, eyes appear closed, likely due to illness. A swollen cheek can be due to food but also a possible infection. A veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Your vet should be able to trim Cookie's teeth. Some hamsters need this done routinely (every 2-3 months) but you may be able to prevent it from happening again by giving him plenty of things to chew on. Hamsters incisors grow continuously which is why they need to be worn down or trimmed regularly. Your vet may also recommend starting so antibiotics since there is an open wound. Best of 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.