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It is crucial for every hamster owner to understand that hamsters are highly susceptible of illness. If your toothy critter gets ill, unfortunately, they do not have a lot of wiggle room to find the most appropriate response. Any case of grave illness could mean you’ll have a dead hamster within hours, sometimes even minutes. For this reason, it is very important that hamster owners know the potential risks of illness and their symptoms. As well as learn how to rise to the occasion when faced with the terrible faith of an ill hamster.
What is Pyometra in Hamsters?
Pyometra is an illness that female hamsters can go through. It is characterized as an acute infection of the womb that causes puss and foul smelling discharge to come out of the vulva. The lining of the uterus is heavily compromised as well as some of their digestive health in consequence of Pyometra. There are two variants of this illness, one that is “open” and one that is “closed”.
Open Pyometra and Closed Pyometra
Open Pyometra is exactly what it sounds like. Discharge leaks out of your hamster’s behind uncontrollably. This paves the way for more bacteria to contaminate the insides of your hamster as well as soiling the entire cage without any control at all. Closed Pyometra is considerably more dangerous, since the infection and discharge is sealed into your hamster, creating a prolific environment for complete sepsis. Closed Pyometra is difficult to catch, since it can be mistaken as a pregnancy or regular bloating. If you see your hamster is a bit too bloated and their belly feels too firm, attend to your vet as soon as possible to rule out this dangerous illness.
What is the cure for Pyometra in Hamsters
Unfortunately, Pyometra only has one true cure: completely removing the uterus of your hamster. Some vets may advice medication, depending on your hamster’s species and condition, but in most cases, it isn’t very effective. It can also lengthen the dire conditions of illness that your hamster is already going through. Most vets do the operation needed to remove the condition completely. We advice you to listen to your trustworthy vet when it comes to the health of your pet.
Female hamsters have fishy smelling discharge in times of heat. It is very important for their owners to keep a watchful eye so that they rule out conditions and symptoms of any illness. Some signs to detect Pyometra are constant, foul smelling discharge or blood and puss (either or both), unlimited, unquenchable thirst, swelling and bloating, firm abdomen, unstoppable digestive issues and low energy.
We cannot stress enough how important it is for owners to be in touch with their hamster’s patterns and behaviours. If you know your hamster’s routine and personality, any signs of illness will become extremely evident. If you tend to them quickly, your hamster has a higher chance to overcome any condition that it may fall into for one reason or another. If you found this article insightful, you may want to read our piece about:
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