Teddy Bear Hamster has doubled in size

Question
Hi. In changing my son's Teddy Bear Hamster's cage tonight I noticed that she has doubled in size. Mostly in the rear section. I did notice that it looked like she had some poop "stuck". I know nothing of how long they live. She is usually very quiet. Likes to sleep. Normal stuff. But lately I have noticed that she is sleeping more and not moving very much. I don't know what to do. My son will be heartbroken if something happens to her. Do I take her to a vet? Thanks!

Answer
Hi Heather

I'm afraid there are a couple of things that come to mind concerning your hamster that could account for her change in shape.  Unfortunately both would need to be checked by a vet.

You haven't said how old she is.  Hamsters only live to around 2 years of age - occasionally they will live to 3, but in my experience this is quite rare.

Female hamsters can develop ovarian cysts which are symmetrical rounds on their hips.  A vet can sometimes treat this with hormones but often surgery is the best option - surgery is really dependent on the age and condition of a hamster as elderly hamsters don't always survive the anaesthetic and few vets would recommend this.

Hamsters are incredibly prone to getting tumors and if they get an abdominal one they tend to go a bit pear shaped.  When the tumor starts to develop they tend to drink a lot more water than usual.  As the tumor gets bigger, not only does their shape change, but also it can start to put pressure on their organs and spine and can cause problems with walking.  Some tumors are very slow growing and it is possible for a hamster to live with one for several months before it is even detected, other times the tumors grow quickly and sadly there is little that can be done for this type of tumor other than euthanasia.  

The fact that she appears to have soiled herself makes me wonder if it is a tumor and it is difficult for her to leave her nest to go to the toilet.  Hamsters are generally very clean creatures and when this happens it often indicates a problem.  Also her increase in sleeping and reluctance to move makes me think she is pretty sick right now.

I would advise that you get her to a vet if you can and let them examine her to see if this is a treatable condition - but I think you should prepare yourself (and your son) if your vet advises euthanasia.  

I hope you get on OK.

Regards