Golden hamsters - health

General health 

How do I know if my hamster is ill? 

You should check your hamster each day for any signs of illness. These might include the following: 

• Diarrhoea 
• Significant weight change (in either direction) over a short period 
• Loss of appetite 
• Drinking much more or less than normal 
• Lack of energy/sleeping more than usual 
• Unusual swellings 
• Skin conditions 
• Limping 
• Unusual bleeding 
• Signs of pain, such as sensitivity to touch 
• Runny eyes or nose

If you see any of these signs, visit your vet straight away. There could be other signs of illness, not on this list, and any change in behaviour should alert you to the possibility of illness. 

What should I do if I think my hamster is ill? 

If you are worried about the health of your hamster, it is always best to contact your local veterinary practice. 

Grooming 

Do I need to groom my golden hamster? 

Long-haired hamsters need to be gently groomed with a soft brush (suitable brushes are available from pet shops). They are most likely to accept this if you get them used to it from a young age. 

How often should I groom my hamster? 

Long-haired hamsters should be gently groomed every other day.