Hamsters are adorable little creatures with fairly short life spans, which is exactly why owners should know about the potential health issues their furry friends may face. Their small size makes them especially vulnerable to illnesses and infections. So can hamsters get colds?
Unfortunately, your hamster can get a cold In the form of an upper respiratory infection (URI). The infection affects the respiratory tract and is caused by viruses. The most common and contagious one is Mycoplasma, which can be spread through contact with other infected pets or their environment.
Although URIs can be caused by cold temperatures, other factors could lead to them. In this article, I’ll discuss what causes a hamster to get sick, the signs of illness in hamsters, and how to prevent cold-related illness in your pet.
What Is URI in Hamsters?
URI in hamsters, also known as Upper Respiratory Infection, is a contagious upper respiratory infection that can affect all small pets, including hamsters. URI can be caused by different types of bacteria or viruses and is a common illness in hamsters. It is commonly known as cold in humans but can affect hamsters more severely than a human cold.
Causes of Colds in Hamsters
The most common cause of hamsters’ colds is contact with other infected animals.
Here are other causes:
- If your hamster comes into contact with a sick animal, the chances of them catching a cold increase significantly.
- Poor food or water quality can also lead to URIs in hamsters.
- Exposure to extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold, can make your hamster more susceptible to contracting a URI.
- Staying in a drafty room or living in an area with poor ventilation can also increase the risk of illness.
- The same applies if you live in an area with high levels of air pollution.
- An unfamiliar environment can also cause stress, weakening your hamster’s immune system and making them more vulnerable to infection.
Signs of Colds in Hamsters
Hamsters are susceptible to colds, just like humans. But they can’t tell you how they feel. It’s up to you as an owner to recognize the signs and symptoms of a cold in your hamster. The signs of a cold in hamsters vary depending on the severity of the infection.
Here are some of the signs:
- Sneezing: Like humans, a hamster will sneeze when it has a cold.
- Runny Nose: Notice if your hamster has a discharge from its eyes and/or nose.
- Loss of Appetite: If your hamster is not eating, it could be due to a cold.
- Increased Sleepy Time: Colds can make your hamster more tired than usual and lead to excessive sleepiness.
- Swollen Eyes: Cold symptoms can cause your hamster’s eyes to swell.
- Little Activity: A decrease in activity level indicates that your hamster may feel unwell.
- Piling Up in the Cage: If your hamster is piling up bedding materials in its cage, it might be an attempt to keep warm and a sign of a cold.
- Lethargy: A cold can cause your hamster to become lethargic and unresponsive.
- Shivering: Your hamster will most likely shiver when struggling with a cold.
- Wheezing: Notice if your hamster is wheezing due to congestion.
In more severe cases, hamsters may begin to cough or wheeze, and the discharge from their eyes and nose may be thicker. If you notice these signs, take your hamster to the vet as soon as possible to get the appropriate treatment.
Preventing Colds in Hamsters
No one wants their beloved hamster to get sick. Colds are common in hamsters, but you can take steps to reduce the risk of your hamster contracting a cold.
1. Keep Your Hamster’s Cage Clean
Maintaining a clean, hygienic living environment is essential for your hamster’s health. Change the bedding in their cage regularly, and clean any dishes or toys they may have. You should be careful not to introduce any new objects or food into their environment, as this could increase the risk of infection.
2. Avoid Stressful Situations
Hamsters can become quite stressed if handled too much or put in unfamiliar environments. Keeping their living situation as consistent and low-key as possible will help maintain your pet’s health. Ensure that your hamster has plenty of places to hide and escape potential stressors.
3. Provide Proper Ventilation
Hamsters can easily overheat if they don’t have adequate ventilation. Provide your pet with a cage that has plenty of air circulation to help keep them cool and comfortable. Their cage should also be placed in an area that is not too warm and away from direct heat sources, as they don’t do too well with temperature extremes.
4. Watch for Signs of Illness
If your hamster is sneezing or has watery eyes, these can be signs of catching a cold. Take them to the vet immediately if you notice any changes in their behavior or physical appearance. You should also ensure that your hamster has plenty of places to hide and escape potential stressors.
5. Vaccinate When Possible
Many hamsters are prone to upper respiratory infections, so you may consider vaccinating them. The best way to know if your hamster is a candidate for vaccination is by consulting with a veterinarian. Vaccinations can help reduce the chances of your hamster getting a cold.
Dangers of Colds in Hamsters
Colds in hamsters are typically URI (Upper Respiratory Infections) and can be very dangerous to your pet’s health. They occur due to an infection by a virus, bacteria, or fungi. If not treated early enough, colds can lead to severe problems like pneumonia and hibernation, increasing the chances of hypothermic shock or even death.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a severe and sometimes deadly infection in hamsters. It can cause severe respiratory distress and an accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Symptoms of pneumonia often include difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy.
Your hamster may also experience a fever or start to sneeze. If left untreated, pneumonia can lead to death in hamsters, so it’s best to keep an eye on the symptoms and seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Hibernation
Hibernation is a dormancy triggered by cold temperatures and a lack of food or water. It is dangerous for hamsters, as it can lead to hypothermic shock and even death if not treated immediately.
Symptoms of hibernation in hamsters can include drowsiness, lethargy, unresponsiveness, and a slow heartbeat. If you notice these symptoms in your hamster, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Treatment for Colds in Hamsters
Most hamster colds can be treated with antibiotics. It’s important to note that antibiotics should only be given if your hamster has been diagnosed with a bacterial or fungal infection, as antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections.
Your veterinarian may also prescribe anti-inflammatories or vitamin supplements to help strengthen your pet’s immune system. Keep your hamster warm, dry, and in a low-stress environment to help them recover more quickly.
Final Thoughts
URI can be a severe threat to your hamster’s health, so take preventive measures to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus or bacteria that cause it.
Regular checkups with your veterinarian and providing a clean and stress-free environment for your hamster are the best ways to prevent URI. If you believe your hamster has contracted a cold, seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure a speedy recovery.