First Hamster too much poo?

Question
We just bought my daughter her first hamster.  It is a Black bear hamster.  When we brought it home it seemed to have normal feces.  It was hard and pellet shaped.  24 hours later it seems to have diarrhea.  The groin area is constantly wet.  We have it in a ten gallon aquarium, with Cedar shavings.  We are feeding it in a bowl that constantly has food in it.  It is Eco-Trition Essential blend.  

Answer
Hi Jeff,

Observe the hamster's behavior.  Is he acting lethargic?  Is he squealing?  Is he walking hunched over?  If your hamster exhibits these symptoms, he most likely has "wet tail," which is an often fatal affliction.  Hamsters can die 24 hours after the symptoms appear.  Therefore, it is vital that you seek veterinary treatment *immediately*.  Do not rely on over-the-counter products such as Dri Tail, which are ineffective and a waste of time.

If your hamster is only experiencing diarrhea, and he is not experiencing any of the above symptoms, he probably is just suffering from diarrhea, not wet tail.  A hamster suffering from diarrhea should only be fed their normal dry hamster mix and should not be fed any vegetables or moist food until recovered.  The only green food which may help a hamster with diarrhea is raspberry bush leaves, as these have astringent properties.  Arrowroot can also be given to the hamster to aid recovery from diarrhoea.

The hamster should be kept warm and you should ensure that the hamster is drinking and has plenty of water to avoid dehydration.  In most casing withholding vegetables will cure the diarrhea in 1 or 2 days. It is usually best to wait a week or two after the hamster has recovered before reintroducing vegetables back into their diet.

If however, after withholding vegetables and moist food, the hamster does not recover after 2 days, the diarrhea is accompanied by other symptoms or the hamster's condition deteriorates veterinary advice should be sought.

Also, please replace your hamster's bedding as soon as possible.  Cedar shavings, along with Pine, are very dangerous to hamsters (and small animals in general), as they often cause respiratory infections.  The only safe beddings to use are Aspen and Carefresh.  You can find these types of bedding in pet shops and even Walmart for around $3-4 for a large bag.

Good luck.

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

Kelly