Rascal

Question
My hamster named Rascal is sneezing and has a wet tail but is peeing in his bed. I bought him on March 27 and it's April 1st. In the pet store he was fine and I'm leaving him for a week to get used to his new surroundings. Do I have to take him back or is he okay??? From Colleen

Answer
Hi,
I would suspect a cold, and although in humans this is not very serious, in hamsters, it is deadly. However, a decent vet will give you antibiotics for it. So, as soon as possible, take him to the vet.
Until then, keep him warm and keep his cage away from draughts or temperature extremes.
If his tail is soiled and he seems lethargic, it is probably the even more deadly wet-tail. Again, a good vet can sometimes treat it, but I will warn you, wet tail is usually fatal. I hope sincerely it is not that.

Best wishes,
Kathryn