wet hamster

Question
My Syrian hamster seems to have got wet probably from the bath water splashing her cage yesterday evening. I have put her in a warm area but her coat does not appear to be drying. Should I do anything else?

Answer
Hi Fiona

She will probably be fine, but I would be tempted to try and dry her off on a towel and if that still doesn't work you can use your hairdryer on her - but only on the very lowest/coldest setting.  When I have to use a hairdryer on a pet I never point the dryer direct at them as it can get very hot very quickly - either keep rubbing her fur so that your hand takes the bulk of the heat from the dryer or dry from a distance - but keep the dryer moving all the time so you don't burn her.  

Have you dried out her cage thoroughly?  It would be worth replacing all her bedding/wood chippings in case they are damp - and especially if she has been lying on them whilst she is wet.  Dampness can attract mould and this can cause respiratory problems for hamsters.

Hope you get on OK.

regards