Do hamsters need shots?

Neutering can be discussed with the veterinarian. Hamsters do not require vaccinations. However, hamsters require, at minimum, annual physical examinations, and fecal tests to check for parasites. Older hamsters should be examined twice annually.

Do hamsters need to go to the vet?

Bringing a tiny hamster into your life is a big commitment -- the same as adopting a dog or cat. Along with the wonderful privilege of owning an animal comes the responsibility of taking care of his health. Because of this, hamsters require regular veterinarian checkups -- no exceptions.

Can you vaccinate hamsters?

Hamsters can be vaccinated, but it is not common practice for veterinarians to vaccinate hamsters against diseases.

How much do hamster shots cost?

Checkups may cost you $70 or more. Some injections can be expensive, closer to $100. If you need to get your hamster emergency care, you could pay $117 for the appointment.

Do hamsters carry diseases?

Hamsters have been known to carry a virus called Lymphocytic choriomeningitis. In healthy adults, this virus causes flu-like symptoms or no symptoms at all. However, it can be transmitted from a pregnant mother to their unborn child and can produce severe illness in people with compromised immune systems.

Hamster Dos

Is it OK to kiss your hamster?

The common cold or an upper respiratory infection can be passed to hamsters from humans. Because these infections are usually spread through respiratory droplets, kissing your hamster is a big no-no.

Do hamsters have periods?

Hamsters have a short and consistent estrous cycle (4 days), a predictable time of ovulation, and a short gestation period (16 days).

Do hamsters need flea treatment?

Hamsters are relatively low-maintenance when compared to other pets, but that doesn't mean they don't need special treatment from time to time. Just like your cats and dogs, hamsters can become infested with fleas.

Do hamsters need baths?

Hamsters are fastidious groomers and do a good job keeping themselves clean, baths, as we tend to think of them, are not necessary. However, it is possible to spot-clean them, if they truly need it. It is especially important to check their bottom as sometimes bedding can stick after going to the bathroom.

Do hamsters need light at night?

Hamsters typically eat their meals at night, and they also typically get their exercise at night. Darkness makes them feel energetic and ready to conquer their "days." Because of that, hamsters need to have the lights off at night.

How much does it cost to take a hamster to a vet?

It does depend on where you live but on average I would say an exam is about $30-70, but could be higher for an exotic specialist.

What to do when you first get a hamster?

Do hamsters need sand baths?

Because hamsters naturally clean themselves, they shouldn't need sand baths. However giving your hamster a sand bath can actually help it clean itself. Additionally, whilst sand baths are allowed for hamsters, dust baths are not recommended, as they could give your pet respiratory problems.

What is wet tail for hamsters?

Wet tail is a very serious disease in hamsters that unfortunately has a high mortality rate even when caught early and treated. “Wet Tail”, named from the obvious sign of wetness around the rear end and tail of the hamster from diarrhea, comes from a bacterial infection that is generally brought on by stress.

Do hamsters eyes fall out?

Proptosis. This emergency situation occurs when the eye comes out of the eye socket. It usually happens when a hamster is squeezed too hard. This might be through rough handling, accidental stepping on, or even through a dog or cat attack.

Can I give my hamster cheese?

Many hamsters love the taste of cheese, but its high fat and sodium content is not especially healthy for hamsters. If your hamster enjoys cheese and seems to tolerate it well, you can offer it occasionally in small amounts. Hamsters should get no more than a pea-sized amount of cheese just once or twice a week.

How often should I feed my hamster?

Feeding Your Hamster. Feed your hamster once per day in either the morning or evening. Specialists differ as to whether it is better to feed your hamster in the morning or evening. It is important, however, that hamsters eat regularly.

Why does my hamster smell like pee?

Why does my hamster's cage always smell like urine? It might not be the litter that's causing your hamster cage to stink of pee. It might be the cage itself. Most hamster and rodent cages are made of metal or plastic – two materials that tend to absorb odors.

How often do hamsters need sand baths?

A typical sand bath lasts about 15-20 minutes, but it may take longer if your hamster is really enjoying it. Remove the sand afterwards, so it doesn't become a respiratory or eye irritant. Depending on your hamster's interest and need, a sand bath can be introduced as often as a few times a week.

Can hamster fleas bite humans?

Although fleas are tiny insects, up to around 0.13 inches, their bites can leave a substantial mark on your skin. Once bitten, small, itchy, red lumps, below half an inch wide, will erupt on the skin and in some cases can develop into blisters.

Why is my hamster pee red?

Just like with humans, your hamster's kidneys are responsible for flushing toxins from its body, and sometimes, just like human kidneys, they malfunction, resulting in a dangerous build-up of toxins in the body. This condition is usually diagnosed with blood and urine samples.

Is it OK if my hamster eats toilet paper?

Yes, toilet paper is safe for hamsters. Even if your hammy ends up ingesting the TP, it is safe. Modern toilet paper is meant to dissolve in water after a short while. This also means that it will break apart when it reaches your hammy's stomach, so he will have no trouble passing it out.

Do hamsters have balls?

The male hamster's testicles are not readily visible in all types of hamsters. Some breeds don't have very large, obvious testicles. The long, hairy coats of some hamsters may make their testicles harder to find, though they should show up in a careful inspection of the hamster's underside.