Russian Dwarf Hamster Skin Diseases

Russian dwarf hamsters are a favorite pet because of their small size, cute appearance and low maintenance. All they require is food, water and a clean cage. Though they are a low maintenance pet, Russian dwarf hamsters are susceptible to skin problems, including irritation and disease. These diseases and infections are easily spread to other hamsters, causing an epidemic if not treated properly.

  1. Mites

    • Russian dwarf hamsters are not good pets for small children.

      Mites are a major instigator of skin disease in Russian dwarf hamsters. The mites are microscopic and can live over or just under the skin. A vet can identify and prescribe treatment for the mites by taking a skin scraping from the hamster. Signs that there might be a problem include skin scratching, itchy skin or flaking skin. A heavy infestation of mites leads to mange.

    Mange

    • Mange is another sign of mites.

      Mange shows up as loose skin, inflamed skin or hair loss. It can be caused by mites, aided by stress or unclean living conditions. Russian dwarf hamsters experience stress by moving to a new place, gaining a roommate or other similar scenarios. Hamsters are clean animals, so they will take care of their own hygiene as long as the owner cleans the cage regularly. Treat mange as soon as it is spotted; as with any illness, it can turn life threatening if ignored.

    Skin irritation

    • Though Russian dwarf hamsters are cute, there are lots of other types of hamsters.

      Russian dwarf hamsters are prone to other types of skin problems. Bellybuttons on male hamsters can become easily infected. Cedar bedding is a bad option for Russian dwarf hamsters, as it causes problems such as skin irritation. Some hamsters are allergic to cedar bedding and develop lung problems when it is in their habitat. Cedar causes problems because it emits chemicals that cause changes in the liver and affects the respiratory system. Pneumonia develops out of a respiratory infection, showing itself with signs of discharge, wheezing, sneezing or even labored breathing. If the hamster loses its appetite, then something is wrong and it is time for a visit to the vet.

    Ringworm

    • Russian dwarf hamsters are also known as "Campbell's dwarf hamster."

      Russian dwarf hamsters suffer from ringworm infections caught from other hamsters or unclean cages. Ringworm is a fungal infection that needs to be treated by a vet. If not taken care of, ringworm will spread to the other hamsters in the cage. Signs of ringworm include irritation to the skin, scratching and redness around the area.