brown bumps.

Question
Hello AGAIN Kelly,

This site is so nifty. :D

I was playing with my male Syrian Teddybear about a month ago and noticed he was scratching himself alot. I know he wasn't cleaning himself with his foot as I know hamsters do, he was just scratching himself all the time and rubbing himself against his cage walls. Well about 2 days ago I was holding him and saw two wet spots on his fur both on the same spot one each side of him. They are located on his sides in between his left and right foot. Not by his belly more up. I moved his fur around and saw a brown spot. It didn't look too much like a scab but it's half the size of an eraser on a pencil. I don't know who to ask and I'm leaving for vacation tomorrow, so it'll be a few days before I can take him to the vet. I also don't want to spend money on an office fee just to find out it's not anything.

I understand that you arn't a vet and would recommend taking him to one but would you atleast have an idea of what they could be?

You have been a great help to me these last few days. Thanks :D

Answer
Hi Andrea,

Judging by the fact that your hamster is scratching a lot, he may have a skin irritation.  (The brown spot I'm not too sure about, though - there is a chance it could be caused by the skin irritation.)  Various skin irritations include mites, mange, ringworm, or even a fungal infection.  

With mites, if you pull the fur back, you may see small black specks running on the skin.  You can purchase anti-mite spray made specially for small animals at pet stores.  When you spray the hamster, be sure to shield the hamster's head.  The cage should then be cleaned and sprayed with the anti-mite spray, and clean bedding should be provided. This treatment should be repeated as directed on the anti-mite spray.  If the mites don't clear up within 2 days, or if you notice signs of mange (scabs on the ears, nose, and genitals, and fur loss), then veterinary treatment should be sought.

With ringworm, which is caused by a fungal infection, thhe hamster has circular bald patches where the skin is dry and crusty.  The hamster will scratch excessively.

If the hamster doesn't improve, you should see a vet.  (I know people don't like hearing that, but sometimes it really is necessary, since hamsters, once ill, can deteriorate so quickly.)  I hope everything turns out okay.

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

Kelly