A few Frequently Asked Questions

Please note that this is not a subsitute for a proper veterinary consulation. If your hamster seems ill or injured, take them to a vet that specialises in hamsters as soon as possible. Hamsters can decline in health rapidly when sick or injured so it's important to get them seen to as quickly as possible.

"My hamster has a mole (or two) on its back!"
These are probably scent glands known as "Hip spots" in syrian hamsters. They can be more obvious in male syrian hamsters, especially short haired ones. They look like this



"My dwarf hamster has a crusty spot on his tummy. What is this?"
Dwarf hamsters do not have hipspots. Instead they have a scent gland on their tummy. It seems that Campbell's, especially males, are more prone to having scent gland problems. If the scent gland is only a little crusty and yellow, try soaking and dabbing off the crust with a damp (water only) cotton ball. This can help you get a better look at the area as well. If you see any sign of redness or swolleness in the area, you should take your hamster to a vet to get treatment for infection or blocked scent glands.

"My hamster has a huge swollen butt!! What's wrong with him??"
See the photos on the Hamster Gender page for examples and explainations.

"What kind of hamster should I get?"
Please see the page on hamster species for a list of character traits and suitablity.