My Hamster has a Swollen Belly

Question
Hi I'm vicki. My Syrian Hamster Biscuit has suddenly got a big fat swollen belly. It is hard and I don't know what is wrong with her. I don't think shes pregnant as she has never come across a male hamster. I don't think its a Tumor as she is only 3 months old (Approx.) Have you any idea what it could be? She is eating well, pooping, but area near tail a bit mucky. Thanks!

Answer
Hi Vicki

The area near her tail - is there a smelly discharge?  Syrians can get uterine infections.  These cause the stomach/abdomen to swell and pus is forced out through the uterus.  If it is this, then if left untreated the hamster becomes very ill and is in pain.  This needs to be treated with antibiotics.

I would suggest you keep a close eye on her. Female Syrians do sometimes get a discharge anyway - their cycle is 4 days, therefore during one of these days you sometimes notice a slight discharge - this is normal.  If there is a discharge that seems to be there daily, or if she starts to smell, then I would suggest you get her to a vet so they can get her on antibiotics.  Females can also get rather large - they tend to be bigger than males, so her weight gain may not be anything to worry about.

Regards