hamster cant stop itching

Question
Hi

I have had my syrian hamster for three weeks. We have just cleaned her cage and since we have put her back in her cage she cant6 stop itching, even though we have cleaned it in the exact same way that we usually do?

Answer
Hi Nicola,

When a hamster is itching, there are a few possibilities as to why: an allergy or skin infection, mites, or mange.

Are you using Cedar or Pine shavings?  These are known causes of skin allergies and infections in small animals.  If you are using one of these beddings, clean the cage again and re-fill it with either Aspen or Carefresh bedding.  The hamster should stop scratching after you've cleaned the cage and replaced the bedding.

Or, your hamster may have mites.  If you pull the hamster's fur back and see small black things running through the fur, it is mites.  To cure mites, buy anti-mite spray made for small animals at a pet store.  Spray the hamster's body, making sure to shield the hamster's head.  The cage should then be cleaned and sprayed with the anti-mite spray.  If the mites are still there after a day or two, or if the hamster exhibits signs of mange (scabs, dry flaky skin), the hamster should be taken to a vet.  

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Kelly