Hamster wet tail disease symptoms and treatment methods, a must-read for novices

Wet tail disease is one of the most common and dangerous diseases in hamsters. It has a rapid onset and high mortality rate. Many novices miss the best time for treatment because they do not recognize the symptoms. Today I will talk in detail about the symptoms, causes and treatments of wet tail disease in hamsters. Novices must read it carefully as it can save lives at critical moments.

What is hamster wet tail disease?

The scientific name for wet tail is proliferative ileitis and is caused by the bacteria Lawsonia intracellularis. The main symptom is severe diarrhea, which causes the hair around the tail to become wet and dirty, so it is commonly known as “wet tail”. Wet tail disease is highly contagious and has an acute onset. If not treated promptly, the hamster may die within 2-3 days.

Wet tail disease mostly affects young rats aged 3-10 weeks, but adult hamsters may also be infected. Stress is the biggest trigger, such as changing the environment, changing cages, fighting in cages, and changes in diet, etc., which will increase the risk of disease.

Symptoms of wet tail disease

Early symptoms

The hamster is lethargic, has a decreased appetite, is inactive, and is hunched up. The tail may not be wet at this time, but the hamster’s condition is obviously not right, and careful owners can spot abnormalities.

Mid-term symptoms

Diarrhea began to occur, the hair around the tail was wet and dirty, and there was an obvious odor. The hamster was emaciated, dehydrated, had sunken eye sockets, and its hair was messy and dull. At this time, treatment must be immediate.

Late symptoms

The hamster barely eats or drinks water. It is severely dehydrated, has a low body temperature and is unable to stand. At this stage, treatment is extremely difficult and the mortality rate is high.

How to treat wet tail disease?

Isolate immediately

If there are many hamsters at home, isolate the sick mice immediately. Wet tail disease is highly contagious. At the same time, thoroughly disinfect the cages and supplies used by the sick rats.

Seek medical attention in time

As soon as you notice the symptoms of wet tail, take it to the exotic pet hospital. The doctor will treat you with antibiotics according to the situation. Commonly used drugs include metronidazole, enrofloxacin, etc., but they must be used under the guidance of a veterinarian, and do not give drugs randomly by yourself.

Replenish water and electrolytes

The biggest threat of wet tail disease is dehydration. You can use a syringe (remove the needle) to feed some glucose water or electrolyte water, small amounts and multiple times. If your hamster won’t drink water at all, your doctor may need an IV.

Insulated and quiet

Put your hamster in a warm, quiet place at a temperature of 25-28 degrees. Reduce interruptions and let it rest and recover.

How to prevent wet tail disease?

Prevention is always more important than cure. First, don’t rush to get started and change food for a new hamster. Give it a week to adapt. Second, keep the cage clean and dry and replace the bedding regularly. Third, do not close cages. Hamsters are safest if they live alone. Fourth, keep your diet stable and do not change your food suddenly. Fifth, reduce stress and do not move the cage frequently or scare it loudly.

Observe the status of your hamster on a daily basis. A healthy hamster is in good spirits, has a strong appetite, has well-shaped poop, and has a clean butt. Once an abnormality is discovered, early detection and early treatment will greatly increase the cure rate.

Related reading

• Hamster hair loss
• Hamster eye disease
• Hamster hibernation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a hamster’s wet tail heal on its own?

Wet tail disease is difficult to cure on its own, has an acute onset, and has a high mortality rate. You must seek medical treatment and medication as soon as possible after symptoms are discovered, and you cannot delay waiting for self-recovery.

How long does it take for a wet tail hamster to die?

If left untreated, the hamster may die from dehydration and organ failure within 2-3 days. If treated promptly, the cure rate is relatively high.

Although wet tail disease is scary, as long as you take precautions and detect it in time, most hamsters can be safe and healthy. If you want to know more about hamster health care, welcome to follow Hamster Nest and become a prepared rat owner!