Is it safe to use baby oil on my hamster's fur or skin for dryness?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! A small amount of this product is unlikely to cause harm to Speedy, even if he grooms it off. A larger amount ingested could result in diarrhea and long term intestinal issues. I recommend making sure he has clean bedding which will absorb some of the oil from his fur and keeping an eye on him for any signs of lethargy or diarrhea. I hope all is well!

Yes you should as this could be due to a skin infection, possibly caused by a mite infestation. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. 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. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

This presentation could be caused by a mite infestation or possibly a skin allergy. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. 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.

for right now, keeping Eliot fed & providing adequate moisture is the key. Soaking his pellets, offering fruit & vegetable baby foods, even using Oxbows Critical Care for bunnies is appropriate. If he is still symptomatic on Monday, have your veterinarian evaluate him in case he needs deworming or an antibiotic. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, & sorry for the disconnect. The dog hit return on my keyboard.

I apologize, I am not sure if I understand your question. I am not sure if you mean that there is something on Koda's coat, or if you are concerned about drying his coat and skin out by using this product. I will speak to a normal hamster, and if this is not correct, please re-post your question. Normal hamsters typically are very fastidious, which means they are very concerned about their appearance. :) They are very good at grooming and keeping clean, and often do not require bathing at all. This can change as hamsters get older, or if they get sick. The reason for this is that when these changes occur, hamsters may not feel well and then they don't put as much effort into their grooming. Excessive bathing can result in drying of the skin and coat, which can be irritating and may cause Koda to begin scratching or bothering his skin. I would recommend using caution with bathing if Koda is a normal, healthy hamster. I hope that helps to answer your question!

I am sorry that sesame isn't himself right now. My biggest concern is that something is causing the crust in the hair on his rear end. He potentially could have a wound, skin infection, parasites or even diarrhea. The hair is likely falling out secondary to this dried debris and him potentially chewing. I would strongly recommend you contact your veterinarian for an exam so they can figure out what is causing the fur to stick together in the first place and possible medications if needed. I hope this sweet boy starts to feel better really soon!

Thanks for reaching out about Hammy. You can wipe him with a warm, moistened clean towel. If recurs, a veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Intestinal parasites or infections, metabolic disorders (liver, kidney), ingested foreign bodies, exposure to toxins and other conditions can cause a soft stool. Good luck.