syrian itch

Question
I would like to find out from you is it normal the hamster still itches on some areas after applying anti-parasite spot-on by beaphar. she scratches mainly around her neck, elbows & her tighs. I have checked many times for possible mites, but what i see its just pinker skin around those areas.I have treated her on mite spray & that product as stated above..it has improved but she still scratches slightly more than normal. I have removed all beddings & bath sands for weeks but still itch.. what could be the cause? should i still continue with the anti-parasite spot-on?
Thank you for your time!

Answer
Hi

sorry to hear that you are having problems with your hamster.  The anti parasite spot on should be repeated after a few weeks - the first dose is supposed to kill any mites, and then the second dose kills any newly hatched ones.  Most times after the second dose the mite situation is under control.  If you haven't tried this it would be worth doing it.

Is there anything in her cage that could be irritating her?  What type of woodchip/bedding are you using?  Some woodchips, such as pine, cypress or cedar can cause skin irritation as they contain a volatile oil called thujone and therefore should be avoided.  If you are not having any response to the treatment, it might be worth considering that there is something else that is causing the problem.  Perhaps for a week or two you could just put in paper bedding for her.  Of course this will mean cleaning her cage daily as the bedding will soil easily, but by eliminating any possible cause you might get to the bottom of this.

I hope this helps you.

Regards
Sheila