Hamsters are delicate creatures, and it can be worrying to see your little friend limping. What causes hamsters to limp and what should you do about it?
If your hamster is limping, you should have it evaluated by a vet. Common causes for limping include a broken or sprained leg, old age, or long nails. Dehydration, lack of exercise, overexertion, a tumor, a stroke, or scurvy might also cause limping.
In this article, I’ll discuss the most common causes of limping in hamsters. I’ll also advise what to do if your hamster is limping.
What Causes Limping in Hamsters?
A limp in a hamster is defined as any condition causing the hamster to not put weight on one of its legs or drag it. Limping hamsters sometimes continue to use the affected leg but walk sideways or diagonally.
Here are some common causes for limping in hamsters:
- Broken leg
- Dehydration
- Stroke
- Excessively long nails
- Paralysis
- Sprain
- Lack of exercise
- Old age
- Overexertion
- Scurvy
- Tumor
Luckily, most of these can be easily treated after a visit to the vet and proper care at home. Let’s discuss each one in more detail.
Read Why Is My Hamster Hissing?
Broken Leg
A broken leg is one of the most common reasons for hamsters to limp. Other than limping, here are some of the signs that indicate your hamster has a broken leg:
- The leg is visibly harmed.
- There’s an open wound with swelling around the leg.
- Your hamster reacts with pain when you touch its leg.
- Tiny popping sounds emanate from the leg area. This indicates that the leg has come off the joint and is rubbing against it.
- Your hamster is lying on one side a lot.
Hamsters can break their legs in a variety of ways:
- After being roughly handled by another pet.
- Getting their leg stuck in the hamster wheel.
- After a fight with another hamster.
- After the owner accidentally drops the hamster.
If your hamster seems to have a broken leg, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will evaluate the leg, reduce the fracture, and secure it with a bandage. Your hamster may also be given antibiotics if there’s an infection or painkillers if he seems to be in pain.
Read How To Entertain a Hamster?
Dehydration
When hamsters are severely dehydrated, they can become lethargic and limp when they walk.
Common causes of dehydration in hamsters include no access to water, viruses, or diabetes.
Here are some things to look out for in a hamster with suspected dehydration:
- Lethargy
- Drastic weight loss
- Sunken eyes
- Foul-smelling or dark urine
- Swollen tongue
If you think your hamster is dehydrated, it’s important to take him to the vet promptly. Extreme dehydration can cause organ failure, which can be fatal.
To rehydrate your hamster, your vet may recommend feeding him small quantities of Pedialyte from a dropper, and feeding him small, water-rich snacks, such as watermelon.
Read How To Cremate a Hamster?
Stroke
Strokes are more common in