Hamster diarrhea often develops from sudden diet changes, especially too many fresh vegetables or sugary treats. Bacterial infections like Lawsonia intracellularis cause Wet Tail, a severe and contagious form of diarrhea. Stress, poor hygiene, and overcrowded cages also increase risk. In some cases, parasites or fungal infections may play a role.
The clearest sign. Instead of small, dry pellets, stools become soft, watery and stick to bedding or cage surfaces.
Normal hamster droppings have little to no smell, but diarrhea creates a strong, unpleasant odor.
When diarrhea is linked to infection or stress, the hamster may refuse food, causing rapid weight loss.
Some hamsters hunch up, grind their teeth or squeak when picked up—signs of abdominal discomfort.
The fur around the tail and back legs becomes damp, sticky and often smells foul. This is a key sign of Wet Tail.
Sick hamsters spend most of their time curled up in one spot, stop using their wheel and may barely move.
Sunken eyes, dry gums, wrinkled skin and reduced urination are red flags of severe dehydration, which can happen fast.
The most common causes are sudden diet changes, eating too many watery foods, stress and bacterial infections like Wet Tail.
Wet Tail is a severe bacterial form of hamster diarrhea that causes watery stools, dehydration and lethargy. It’s highly contagious and often fatal without urgent care.
Mild diet-related diarrhea may improve if diet is corrected, but most cases need veterinary advice. Wet Tail never goes away without treatment.
See a vet quickly. Provide clean water, remove fresh foods and keep the cage clean and dry while waiting for treatment.
Yes, especially in young hamsters. Dehydration can happen within hours and Wet Tail can be fatal within 1–2 days.
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