How common is wet tail?

It is likely that your furry friend has Proliferative Ileitis, commonly known as wet tail. It is most common in hamsters that are three to six weeks old, but every hamster can be susceptible. Although it can strike any hamster, the long-haired Teddy Bear hamsters do seem to be plagued by the illness the most.
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How common is wet tail in Syrian hamsters?

Wet tail is an extremely serious health condition that is especially common in Syrian hamsters under 12 weeks old. A hamster of any species and age can get wet tail which causes foul-smelling watery diarrhea, severe dehydration, discomfort and death.
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How do hamsters get wet tail disease?

Young hamsters get moved from a breeder or vendor to a pet store, to a new home, and sometimes get returned to the store after that, all within a period of a few weeks. This would stress anyone out—especially a tiny baby hamster. This stress causes the bacteria to overpopulate in the gut, which in turn causes diarrhea.
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Is wet tail rare in hamsters?

Syrian hamsters, of all the hamsters, have the highest chance of developing wet tail. Seeing as they're the most common type of hamster pet, this doesn't sound great. Dwarf types can still get wet tail, but in a much smaller degree and it's kind of rare for them.
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Is wet tail serious?

True Wet Tail is a serious gastrointestinal infection which can be life-threatening. However, the term 'wet tail' is sometimes used more generally to describe any condition resulting in diarrhoea or wetness around the back end.
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Wet Tail In Hamsters (Proliferative ileitis)



Is wet tail caused by stress?

Wet-tail or proliferative ileitis, is a disease of hamsters. It is precipitated by stress. Even with treatment, the animal can die within 48–72 hours.
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How do you know if your hamster has wet tail disease?

This condition causes severe watery diarrhea which leads to matted, unkempt fur around the tail, loss of appetite, and dehydration. Affected hamsters may also sit in a hunched posture and have blood around their rectums. Hamsters can die from this illness. Death may occur in as little as a few days to a week.
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How much does it cost to take a hamster to 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.
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Can wet tail be cured?

Unfortunately, wet tail can be difficult to treat. Hamsters suffering from the condition often die, even when the problem is spotted early and properly treated. For the best chance of recovery, it is important to identify wet tail and begin treatment within 24 hours of symptoms appearing.
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How do I know if my hamster is dying?

When a hamster is dying, its breathing will be more agitated, choppy and its pulse will begin to diminish progressively until exhausted. It is also possible that your hamster may suffer from tremors or a stiff jaw. Signs of a dead hamster include: No apparent breathing or movement.
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Why is my hamster wobbling and falling over?

If hamster is having problems with balance and keeps stumbling and falling over, it is suffering from a problem with its vestibular system. The vestibular system is the mechanism within the inner ear and brain that helps mammals - including us - keep balance.
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Do wet tail drops work?

5.0 out of 5 stars These drops really do work! My little one became extremely ill with wet tail. He looked awful and I honestly thought she would die. Reading in websites everyone said 48 to 72 hours of extreme pain.
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How long does it take to cure wet tail?

How Long Does It Take for a Hamster To Recover From Wet Tail? Hamsters with wet tail are commonly given a course of antibiotics lasting at least 7 days. They'll need the full course to make a recovery, after which you should see an improvement in their condition.
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What to do if a hamster gets wet?

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR HAMSTER ACCIDENTALLY GET WET?
  1. Fish them out of the water right away and go into a warm room.
  2. Wrap them in a dry and clean cloth/blanket and pat them dry.
  3. Use a low setting on your hairdryer (not too hot, if no other option, choose the cold air).
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How do you fix wet tail?

If you suspect your hamster has wet tail, having them seen by your veterinarian as soon as possible is a critical first step. Your vet will likely start your pet on an antibiotic and may also recommend administering subcutaneous fluids to aid in hydration as well as syringe feeding if your hamster is not eating.
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Why does my hamsters back look wet?

What Does It Mean When Your Hamster's Fur Looks Wet? Your hamster's fur can appear wet for many reasons, some more serious than others. We talked about wet tail being a serious condition. If your hamster has a wet tail, or the areas around the tail are wet, they may be having diarrhea.
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Why is my hamsters back end swollen?

These are normal and nothing to worry about. Also, the testicles of male hamsters enlarge in the spring, so two large swellings at the bottom end of your hamster are usually nothing to worry about. But, if you are at all concerned about your hamster's health, do consult your vet.
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Can a vet save a hamster?

Not all vets have the expertise to cure hamster illnesses and injuries. Therefore, it's important you look around to find one that can. It might sound crazy to need a veterinarian for a pet hamster but it's the right thing to do if you have a sick or injured one on your hands.
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How much does it cost to have a hamster put down?

Euthanasia, which is putting your hamster to sleep, costs about $75 to $150, depending on facility pricing. Many times, hamsters don't show signs of sickness until it's very advanced.
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Can a vet put down a hamster?

Allow your veterinarian to euthanize your hamster.

Your veterinarian will most likely administer a lethal injection into your hamster's belly and your hamster will pass away as a result. Your veterinarian will check your hamster for a pulse to ensure that he has passed away.
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What does hamster pee look like?

Hamster urine is milky white and it is normal to find a white stain on the cage bottom that is very difficult to remove. Washing the area lightly with soap and water is sufficient to eliminate odour. It is not necessary to scrub off the white stain. The normal lifespan for a hamster is 18-24 months.
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How often should you clean hamster cage?

Besides scooping out dirty bedding every day, plan to change out all of the bedding in your hamster's habitat once a week. This includes removing any food your hamster may have stored throughout the week, as well. Wash the entire habitat once a month.
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How do you stop a hamster from having diarrhea?

Hamster Diarrhoea Treatment

Withhold fresh fruit and veg and just feed dry food, provide plenty of fresh water, keep the environment warm, ensuring a draft free location and monitor this whilst your hamster is unwell. If this is the cause, the diarrhoea should clear up quickly within a few days.
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