Mites and Hamsters
Friday, May 1st, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed
Normally hamsters do not have parasites but sometimes they can catch mites and become carriers.Mites are miniscule black parasites that cause hamsters a great deal of discomfort. They live in the hair follicles in your pet’s fur. If the mites are not treated, other hamsters will be infested and it can also lead to mange. (Mange is a skin condition that is characterized by redness, intense itching, skin irritation and hair loss).
Hamsters can get mites from several sources.The commonest reason is contact with another infested hamster.Bedding can also be a source of a mite infestation. Hay (which is used for food) can also be infested.Check any new bedding or food package for mites before using it.
Symptoms include scratching/itching, sore spots, loss of fur. Mites can be nearly impossible to see, but it is sometimes helpful to check for them by using a flashlight in a darkened room.Rubbing your hamster with a white towel may also produce results.Check for any black dots that move if you touch your hamster’s fur with your finger. (Fleas are another parasite that can have the same symptoms, but fleas are larger and much easier to spot than mites). If you simply cannot be certain, contact your veterinarian and have him examine your pet for confirmation.
Mites can be treated with a spray that is specifically designed for small animals.This product can be bought from most pet stores. Make sure that you cover and protect your hamster’s eyes while you are using the spray to treat him.Discard the bedding in your pet’s cage and give the cage a good cleaning. Spray the cage well with the anti-mite spray according to the directions on the packaging.
Quarantine your pet hamster if you see any signs of mites to stop them spreading.Quarantine your hamster in a different cage and put it in a separate room.It’s important that you are certain that your hamster no longer has mites before you reintroduce him back into the general population. (If the hamster is away from the other hamsters long enough, you may have to take care and slowly reintroduce him back into the general population).
It is important to find the source of the contamination.Make sure you check unused bedding for mites, if you have any doubts get rid of it and buy some new bedding.Examine the other hamsters and food.If your hamster is a recent purchase, make sure you let the shop you got him from know.Should you find that your bedding is infested with mites, let the retailer you got it from know. This will help them control the outbreak.
You don’t have to worry about getting mites from your pet.Mites don’t like humans - if they do attach themselves to you they will die in a couple of hours - but wash your hands nevertheless.
You can get more information and tips about looking after your pet hamster at http://www.hamstersaspets.co.uk
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