Minor injuries are typically treatable at home, but major injures require immediate veterinary care. [2] X Research source If your hamster has major injuries, he will have other symptoms, including labored and raspy breathing, excessive squeals, and aggression when handled. Be mindful that hamsters can be good at hiding just how much pain they’re in. [3] X Research source
By calling, your veterinarian can advise you on what first aid you can give your hamster before you get to the veterinarian’s office.
You can find treatment supplies at your local pharmacy. Your veterinarian can advise you on the specific type of antibiotic ointment you should use. Betadine is also known as povidone iodine. Hydrogen peroxide has commonly been used as a disinfectant, but it may not be as beneficial as previously thought. The bubbling seen with hydrogen peroxide can damage cells, so using it may do more harm than good. [6] X Research source
The wounds from minor cuts and scrapes can become infected if your hamster doesn’t tend to them and clean them. An infected wound can turn into an abscess,[8] X Research source which is a pocket of infection. Abscesses are serious and must be treated by a veterinarian. [9] X Research source They will also require at-home care, such as wound cleaning and antibiotics.
Wrap him up in such a way that you can still get to his wounds. Other than cuts and scrapes, your hamster may have skin sores as a result of injury. These are open wounds that look inflamed and might be bleeding. [12] X Research source If there is not a lot of blood, you can treat the sores at home. Your hamster may not be able to clean open sores on his own, so you should do this for him.
Cleaning it yourself can prevent abscess formation, since you will be able to clearly see how well you’ve cleaned it.
Disinfecting the wound will help kill microorganisms that could cause infection. Betadine can stain your skin, so you may want to wear gloves when you use it.
It is ideal that your hamster recover in a cage without bars,[16] X Research source such as an aquarium, to prevent further injury. If you do not already have an aquarium and buying one isn’t practical, keep a close eye on your hamster when he is moving around in his cage.
If your hamster has a cage mate with whom he doesn’t get along, they may have scratched or bitten each other. Your hamster’s nails might be too long, causing him to scratch himself. [18] X Research source Whatever the cause, do your best to manage or remove it so your hamster doesn’t get injured again. This may involve separating your hamsters.
With a small towel or piece of facial tissue, apply gentle pressure to the wound to try and stop the bleeding. [20] X Research source Blood loss in a hamster can be life threatening, since hamsters do not have a lot of blood to begin with. [21] X Research source Do not use up precious time waiting for the bleeding to stop!
With a small towel or piece of facial tissue, apply gentle pressure to the wound to try and stop the bleeding. [20] X Research source Blood loss in a hamster can be life threatening, since hamsters do not have a lot of blood to begin with. [21] X Research source Do not use up precious time waiting for the bleeding to stop!
Prepare yourself for the possibility that your hamster may not make it. Some injuries are so serious that, no matter what a veterinarian does, the hamster will not survive. If your hamster is severely injured, the best option may be to put him to sleep (‘euthanasia’).
A serious wound may require stitches. [24] X Research source If your hamster has a broken leg, you may be surprised that there’s not much your veterinarian can do to fix it. If he or she tries to put a splint or wrap on the limb, your hamster will likely chew it off. [25] X Research source Your veterinarian will recommend that you let the broken bone heal on its own. The leg may be a little crooked as a result, but your hamster will be fine. [26] X Research source To lessen the pain, your veterinarian may prescribe pain medication. [27] X Research source Your veterinarian will recommend treatment for a broken limb only if your hamster is dragging it around or the leg looks inflamed. [28] X Research source Be aware that if your hamster can no longer use his back legs, your veterinarian may recommend euthanasia. [29] X Research source
Keep him snuggly wrapped up during and after use of the compress to keep him warm. If your hamster has an infected wound, your veterinarian will send you home with antibiotics to give to your hamster. Your hamster may be in so much pain that he refuses to eat and drink. Hand-feed him by placing small bits of food in your hand and holding your hand close to his mouth. Handle him as little as possible when he is recovering.
Keep only the necessities in his cage, such as comfortable bedding and bowls for food and water.
