Syrian Hamsters health

Question
I've recently noticed that my pet hamster (ginger) has a swollen, red toe. I suspect that it might have been due to an injury from previous owners but am not sure. It is swollen and pinkish-red color but is not bleeding or getting worse nor is it going down. The hamster still is active, not showing signs of fatigue. What do you recommend I do?

Answer
Hi Lisha

Sorry to hear about Ginger's swollen toe.  I had a rescued hamster once who had a swollen toe.  He had been kept outside by his previous owner and as it was so cold this affected the hamster's feet and one toe went red and swollen.  He ended up having the toe amputated.  How the vet managed ths was a miracle as their toes are so tiny.

It is difficult to know why Ginger's toe is like this as he was owned by someone before you.  The important thing is to keep a close watch on it.  Can you photograph it?  Sometimes it is a good idea to do this so that you have a record of how it looked in case there are any changes.  If there is any sign that the foot is swelling or discolouring then Ginger really ought to see a vet as you will need to get antibiotics or anti-inflammatories, or worst case the vet might need to amputate.  If this is due to infection or injury I would have thought that the situation would get worse.  Otherwise I would suggest you monitor it to see if it clears on its own.  If it starts to get worse, spreads, or Ginger shows other symptoms that would indicate that there is infection or something else going on, I would strongly advise that you get a vet to check this out.

I hope you get on OK.

Regards
Sheila