2007-02-28 06:28:53 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
There are a few things that can cause hair/fur loss in hamsters. The one that first comes to my mind when you described the loss in patches is mange.
Mange is caused by mites (there are two kinds of mites responsible for mange). With sarcoptic mange, fur loss is seen all over the body but particularily on the face. It is itchy and infected areas are scruffy with small scabs. With acariasis, caused by demodex mites, fur loss is combined with dry, scaly skin and some spots. This form of mange is not itchy. Both forms of mange are treated with Ivermectin and you will need to visit a vet for a prescription.
Fur loss can be caused by ringworm. With ringworm, there will be hair loss with dry, flaky, often yellow-tinged skin. It may be itchy, but not always. There are several forms of ringworm and some are contagious to other animals, including humans. The only way to confirm ringworm is with hair samples. To treat ringworm in hamsters, you will need to get specific instructions from a vet.
Unfortunately, hair loss can also be a symptom of several diseases: Cushing's Disease, Hypothyroidism and Kidney Disease.
Diets with less than 16% protein or excess cereals can also cause hair loss.
Finally, old age can cause hair loss. Usually the fur will begin to thin but it can also begin to fall out beginning with two bald patches on either side of the backbone.
Without knowing the exact cause of the hair loss, there is no way to know what treatment needs to be given. You will probably need the help of a vet to determine the exact cause.
-Janice
http://www.holmdenhillhaven.com
2007-03-01 00:21:34 · answer #1 · answered by radiocricket 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take you hamster to the vet, it could be anything from mange to a diet deficiency. We had several who ended up having mange and even more with Cushing's Syndrome. With treatments, the hair has grown back. Signs of mange also include scabbing of the skin and constant scratching, not to be mistaken for washing.
2007-03-01 17:53:29 · answer #2 · answered by wolfinator25840 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That sounds like a possible nutritional deficiency. Maybe she needs vitamins?
2007-02-28 06:31:50 · answer #3 · answered by true blue 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
did you take her to the vet?
2007-02-28 06:36:20 · answer #4 · answered by blue_vue 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋