How to Treat Hamsters With Constipation

Although constipation is a mere nuisance in humans, it can be deadly in tiny creatures like hamsters. Because hamsters are so small, it does not take a long time for toxins to build up in the body. Hamsterific.com defines constipation as an emergency for any hamster. A hamster with constipation has a large, round, tight abdomen and an anus which is larger than normal because of straining. The hamster will not want to be touched because of the pain, so it may bite.

Things You'll Need

  • Veterinarian
  • Separate cage and water bottle for ill hamster (optional)
  • Work gloves
  • Pipette or eye-dropper
  • Vegetable or olive oil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Separate the sick hamster from any other hamster. Some species, like the Roborovski dwarf hamster, like to live in pairs or small colonies, but the sick hamster may be harassed by the healthy hamsters. Be sure to include a full drip water bottle because more water consumption may help to move the feces along. Place the hospital cage in a quiet, warm place away from drafts. A clean cage also makes it easier to check for feces.

    • 2

      Take a pipette or eyedropper and place in bottle of vegetable or olive oil. Squeeze the top so that the eyedropper fills.

    • 3

      Don work gloves if the hamster is biting. Wait until the hamster is awake before giving the oil. This will cut down on the chances of the hamster biting. Gently restrain the hamster and present the end of the eyedropper. If the hamster starts to nibble or lick, gently squeeze to give the hamster a drop. If the hamster is uncooperative, then pick up the hamster and insert the eyedropper end into the hamster's mouth and squeeze out one drop.

    • 4

      Wait 24 hours. If the hamster has not defecated, take it to the veterinarian.

    • 5

      An X-ray of the hamster will help reveal what is blocking the intestines and determine the best course of treatment. VetBase.co.uk notes that overweight hamsters or hamsters fed only dry foods may only need an enema to expel the impacted feces. But emergency surgery may be necessary for other types of digestive tract blockages such as tapeworms or plastic.