Animalscaretips
Wet tail is a term used to describe watery diarrhea in hamsters which may have a variety of causes. The exact cause of proliferative ileitis is not known, but it is thought to be caused by a variety of intestinal bacteria such as Campylobacter, and Lawsonia intracellularis.
- What causes wet tail?
- How is wet tail treated?
- Can humans catch wet tail from hamsters?
- Do female hamsters smell more than males?
- How can I help my hamster with wet tail?
- Why do hamsters stink?
- How much does it cost to treat wet tail?
- How often should you clean hamster cage?
- What can a vet do for a hamster?
- Why is my hamsters back hunched?
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 is wet tail treated?
If you are unable to take your hamster to an exotics vet, you can try giving him wet tail drops at home. These drops are orange flavored and have an antibiotic in them. They can be purchased without seeing a veterinarian and can be put in a water bottle or directly in the hamster's mouth.
Can humans catch wet tail from hamsters?
You should also be aware that wet tail is contagious to other hamsters. In some rarer cases, it can cause stomach upsets in humans as well, so it is very important to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling a sick pet and to quarantine them from other animals until all symptoms have disappeared.
Do female hamsters smell more than males?
Overall, Female Syrians tend to smell worse than the Males. With Dwarfs, the Males smell worse than the Females. Although neither have a noticeable scent, if you take a whiff purposely one is stronger.
How can I help my hamster with 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.
Why do hamsters stink?
If you are noticing an unpleasant odor coming from your hamster or its living enclosure, the likelihood is high that you are not cleaning the pet's cage often enough or you are not getting it clean enough when you do. ... Scrub the cage with soap and water once a week, completely replacing all the bedding.
How much does it cost to treat wet tail?
For something like wet tail, which is very serious by the way, the costs depend on the vet. I think the average price is somewhere around $20 for the medication. Baytril, which is a commonly used antibiotic, costs somewhere around $10-$15.
How often should you clean hamster cage?
Your hamster's habitat should be deep and thoroughly cleaned at least once every month. Place your hamster in a safe, temporary habitat, such as a critter carrier while you perform your deep clean.
What can a vet do for a hamster?
Your veterinarian will examine your hamster, record its weight, and discuss housing, proper diet, and appropriate toys. A fecal sample also should be examined for parasites. Neutering can be discussed with the veterinarian. Hamsters do not require vaccinations.
Why is my hamsters back hunched?
Hunched backs are a sign of the deadly illness, Wet Tail. It is highly contagious and needs vet treatment. According to the Law we can only help so much in place of vets.
