How to care for a hamster with wet tail

Wet tail is a bacterial disease that causes extreme diarrhea and dehydration in hamsters. Unfortunately, this disease is often fatal when not treated in time; therefore, recognizing the symptoms of watery diarrhea, an uncharacteristically dull and dirty appearance, as well as signs of abdominal pain as soon as they occur is vital to treatment. Proper care and cleanliness will go a long way in preventing the disease, but it is not a guarantee. Stress can make a hamster more vulnerable to the condition, and it is, unfortunately, very easy to bring an infected hamster home from the pet store.

Things You'll Need

  • Soap
  • Water
  • Sanitizing agent
  • Clean bedding
  • Regular diet
  • Fresh water
  • Bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Isolate the affected hamster from any other hamsters. Since this is a bacterial disease, it can easily be transferred between hamsters. Any seemingly healthy hamsters should be removed from the cage and the vicinity of any potentially infected materials. Keep a close eye on these hamsters, as it can take up to a week for symptoms to show.

    • 2

      Take the sick hamster to the veterinarian as soon as it shows the first signs of disease. Often diarrhea is one of the first symptoms to show, and this can also be accompanied by signs of straining and discomfort. The first two days of illness are crucial, so make the appointment as soon as possible.

    • 3

      Follow the veterinarian's advice. Often, this includes the administration of fluids beneath the skin, given at the office. Antidiarrhea medications need to be given to combat the most severe of symptoms, but the underlying cause need to be treated as well. This often includes a course of antibiotics.

    • 4

      Keep the sick hamster in isolation. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the cage as well as any previously used bowls, tunnels or toys before introducing them again, and throw away anything that cannot be completely cleaned. Make sure the cage is in a warm place, out of any drafts or breeze.

    • 5

      Clean out the hamster's bedding several times a day, to make sure it is not re-exposed to any bacteria. Do not use any strong disinfectants that will further harm the hamster or make it difficult for him to breathe.

    • 6

      Encourage the hamster to eat and drink as normal to help maintain strength. The veterinarian may recommended vitamins or antibiotics be added to the water, and a hamster that hesitates to eat can often be bribed with their favorite foods or by adding honey to its seed.

    • 7

      Wash your hands after handling the hamster, the cage or any potentially infected materials. The bacteria that causes wet tail in hamsters can cause diarrhea and cramps in humans as well.