Distended Belly

Question
Our Panda hamster suddenly has a very distended belly and it's very hard.  She is in distress and is definitely not pregnant.  If she swallowed bedding, is there anything we can do to help her?

Answer
Hi Cherie

Thanks for your question  - I'm sorry to hear about your hamster. How old is your hamster?  When you say that this happened suddenly - what is time frame?

Reasons for a distended belly could be: tumor (but the hamster usually drinks a lot before you notice it and they tend to be quite old for these - around 2 years of age), ovarian cysts (this is more on the hips and is usually symmetrical), Kidney problems, or some form of blockage.

I doubt she has swallowed her bedding - they usually put it in their cheek pouch, but I doubt she would have eaten it.

Is she going  to the toilet normally? Can you see droppings?  Is there anything coming from her rear that shouldn't be there?  Is there any blood or pus? Does she have a different smell about her that could indicate an infection of some sort? Is she eating/drinking normally?

If she is dull, looking distressed as you say, then I would be tempted to get her examined by a vet.  If this is a tumor, then there is little that can be done, however.  If this is a blockage - such as constipation - this can be treated.  Also, if she has ovarian cysts or enlarged kidneys, again this is something that can be treated and your vet will be able to advise you of your options. If this is an infection that has caused her to be like this, then this is more than likely treatable with antibiotics.

Do you have a vet that you know?  If not, it is worth phoning a few to see if any have a small animal specialist there.  Also check their fees - most charge a reduced rate for hamsters, but it is worth establishing this before you go as you may be distressed/upset when you are there.

I hope you get on OK.

Regards
Sheila