Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 7/10/2008

Question
My 2 1/2 yr old hamster had some blood on her bottom. Her appetite was normal and she had no diarrhea, she was still very active, but kept falling over. This all started on a sat. I was going to take her to the vet on mon. but she passed away at 4:30 mon. morn. Do her symptoms sound like wet taii? I feel horrible about the whole thing and i just want to know what my baby passed away from. Veronica

Answer
Veronica -

What you describe sounds like wet tail, but you hamster could have died from a variety of maladies.  Where you feeding her a healthy hamster diet?  Were you diligent with keeping her cage clean?  Reevaluate her environment before you consider getting another hamster.  It may also be wise to find a veterinarian that specializes in treating exotics and pocket pets.


Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM