You can tell your hamster isn’t drinking enough by its full water container and scant urination. Moreover, your hamster isn’t eating or playing and sleeps most of the time. Deeply worried, you’re desperate to know how to save your dehydrated hamster.
A dehydrated hamster needs urgent veterinary care. The vet will give precise amounts of specialized fluids, either orally or by injection. If an illness causes fluid loss, the vet will treat it. Then, you’ll receive home care advice for your hamster’s diet, hydration, and possibly medication.
In this post, you’ll learn why hamsters get dehydrated, along with the telltale signs. Then, you can take quick corrective measures, restoring your hamster’s happy, playful nature.
Signs Your Hamster Is Dehydrated
Here’s how to determine if your hamster is dehydrated.
- Sharp-smelling urine. Since a dehydrated hamster voids less, its urine becomes very concentrated. One sign is dark yellow bedding in your hamster’s bathroom area, typically a corner of its pen. Moreover, concentrated urine has a foul smell.
- Abnormal eyes and tongue. A healthy hamster has bright, clear, glistening eyes, endearing to us pet owners. Those beady eyes are part of what makes a hamster so cute! However, fluid loss renders dry, droopy eyes. Meanwhile, if your hamster is severely parched, its tongue will swell.
- Poor appetite. Along with not drinking, your hamster may show no interest in food. Or, it may eat much less than usual. In turn, your hamster will lose weight, appearing thinner. Shedding may occur as well.
- Taut, dry skin. A well-hydrated hamster has elastic skin, regaining a smooth texture when stretched. To assess your hamster, hold it firmly with one hand, gently pinching its skin with the other. If the skin delays in flattening, your hamster needs fluids. Also, note whether the skin is dry, dull, or flaky.
- Ruffled fur. When a hamster is dehydrated, it will neglect self-grooming, lacking the motivation. Thus, your pet’s fur will look messy rather than sleek. Since hamsters like to clean themselves fastidiously, unkempt fur clearly signifies feeling unwell.
- Lethargy. As you know, a vibrant hamster loves to dig, run around, and play. However, fluid loss will sap a hamster’s strength, causing it to be sluggish and sleepy. Despite your best efforts to engage your pet, it’s unresponsive.
How To Treat Dehydration in Your Hamster
Below are ways to restore your hamster’s fluid levels. They can help sustain your hamster if your vet isn’t nearby or you can’t get a same-day appointment.
Also, you can try these hydration methods at the first inkling your pet isn’t drinking enough. This way, you can prevent further fluid loss, averting a full-blown episode.
- Give fluid with an eyedropper. Ideally, give Pedialyte. It supplies electrolytes, essential minerals lost in watery stools. If you don’t have Pedialyte, mix a pinch of sugar and salt with water. If your pet has diabetes, omit the sugar, adding just a smidgen of salt. Continue giving one drop of fluid every 30 minutes. Avoid force-feeding, and only gently apply water to your hamster’s lips.
- Offer watery vegetables. Give your hamster a small piece of lettuce, cucumber, or apple (peels removed). If your pet eats that serving, try one more. However, avoid further portions, as they can rouse diarrhea.
- Add electrolytes to a water bowl. If your hamster has severe fluid loss, it may be too weak to hold up its head. In that case, it can’t be drinking from a water bottle. So, pour some Pedialyte into a shallow bowl. Then, place it near your hamster’s nest.
Causes of Dehydration in Hamsters
Severe dehydration in a hamster can lead to organ failure. The triggers can be dietary, medical, or environmental. A clogged water bottle or faulty ball bearing could be responsible. Or, maybe your hamster isn’t getting enough fresh water daily.
By knowing the causes of fluid loss, you can take preventive steps. Below are common reasons for hamster dehydration.
- Stagnant water. It’s vital to clean and refill your pet’s water container daily. Otherwise, algae and bacteria can get a foothold, contaminating it. Your pet may also refuse to drink stagnant water. Also, monitor your pet’s consumption and refill your hamster’s water container whenever its volume drops by a third.
- Clogged water bottle. While cleaning a water bottle, give special attention to the spout. Also, check the ball bearing within the spout, ensuring it works properly.
- Dietary imbalance. A balanced diet for a hamster consists of 75 percent pellets, 20 percent fresh food, and 5 percent treats. According to PetMD, most hamsters need ⅛ to ⅓ cup (24-66 g) of pellets daily. The right amount for your hamster depends on its breed, size, and activity level. Ask your vet for guidance.
- Illness. Health problems like infections, diabetes, digestive problems, and kidney disease can cause dehydration in your hamster.
- High heat and humidity. The optimal temperature range for hamsters is between 65° to 75°F (18° to 24°C). Install a thermometer in your pet’s enclosure to track the temperature. Additionally, situate your hamster’s pen away from windows and sunlight.
Final Thoughts
A dehydrated hamster needs prompt medical care. A vet will administer specialized fluids while treating any medical causes of fluid loss. Once your hamster recovers, prevent future dehydration by ensuring your hamster has fresh water daily, a balanced diet, and a suitable environment. May your hamster stay healthy!