What causes wet tail?

Wet-tail is a disease in the animal's intestines caused by the bacteria, Lawsonia intracellularis. Wet-tail is a stress related illness—such stress can be caused by a variety of factors, including: Too much handling. Change in environment.

How does wet tail occur?

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.

What causes hamsters to have wet tail?

Stress is usually the main culprit of wet tail. 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.

How do you cure wet tail?

The only cure for wet tail is antibiotic treatment available from your vet. Even if you notice the smallest sign of wet tail, ring your vets and make an appointment immediately. Wet tail can cause hamsters to die within 48 hours of the first symptoms showing.

Can hamster survive wet tail?

Could he survive? With proper treatment, some hamsters do survive "wet tail." However, "wet tail", or Proliferative Ileitis, is one of the most serious intestinal diseases that affect hamsters. Even with treatment, many hamster die, often within 48 hours of showing symptoms.

Water Doesn't Cause Wet Tail! | Myths

How long do hamsters live with wet tail?

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. Baby hamsters are much more likely to get the disease than older hamsters.

How long does it take for a hamster to get wet tail?

Wet tail most often affects very young hamsters 3-6 weeks old, but hamsters of any age are susceptible. Many hamsters are affected while still at the pet store.

How do you prevent wet tail in hamsters?

Clean all objects that the infected hamster has touched, including its cage, wheel and any other items in the cage. Wet tail is very contagious! Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and regularly to avoid passing the disease from one cage to another. Only feed dry foods.

How often do hamsters get wet tail?

Female hamsters produce a thick, creamy vaginal discharge during their normal reproductive cycle just after ovulation. This occurs once every four days and may be alarming. The discharge can be mistaken for pus or infection; however, this is completely normal and does not require any treatment.

What does wet tail smell like?

Strong smell – wet tail smells, and it's hard to miss. Your hammy is usually very clean and only smells like fur if you smell him. But with wet tail, he might have a strong poo smell. Hunched back, brought on by intestinal discomfort.

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.

Is wet tail contagious to other animals?

Fast Facts to Know

Wet tail can only be treated with antibiotics from your vet. It is highly contagious, especially to other hamsters.

What antibiotics treat wet tail?

Some commonly used antibiotics include tetracycline, trimethoprim sulfa and enrofloxacin. The patient is typically hospitalized in an incubator to keep warm and clean. Despite aggressive treatment, many hamsters succumb to the disease and perish within 48 hours.

Why is my hamster always wet?

Conspicuous patches of wetness on your hamster signify hamster sickness, either diarrhea or tooth-related issues. A wet stomach generally stems from diarrhea, and a wet mouth can be the result of either diarrhea or teeth overgrowth.

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.

How do you clean a hamsters bottom?

You can clean him up gently with a plain, unscented baby wipe or pet wipe. Make sure he is dry, warm and stress free afterwards. Monitor for the above symptoms as wet tail can be serious if not addressed promptly by your veterinarian.

Should I hold my dying hamster?

Should I Hold My Dying Hamster? You'll need to exercise caution if you wish to hold your hamster while it's dying. For hamsters dying of a painful illness or disease, being handled will cause too much pain and stress. Instead, you'll need to interact with your hamster without touching it.

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.

How do you test for wet tail?

Can I put baking soda in hamster cage?

Sprinkling baking soda on the bottom of the cage can help absorb odors. Just add the baking soda before you put in the hamster's bedding. Baking soda is a good way to keep your cage smelling great, as it is readily available and very cheap.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for hamsters?

You'll also need a disinfectant. You can find cleaning solutions in pet stores. Or, you can use dish soap or a mild hand soap. Don't use harsh chemicals for daily or weekly cleanings, as these can be dangerous for pets.

Can I use Clorox wipes on my hamster cage?

What is this? But even though Clorox wipes are great for cleaning up around the house, Clorox wipes are not safe around pets, especially small pets like guinea pigs.