An estimated 1.5 million U.S. households choose a hamster as their family pet. Hamsters are pocket pets that are great for teaching kids about pet ownership. However, when your hamster starts behaving abnormally or cannot ambulate normally, you need to get them evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out life-threatening issues.
Your hamster wobbles or falls over due to an issue in its vestibular system. The vestibular system controls balance inside the ears. Ear infection, strokes, tumors, and injuries are common causes of wobbling and falling over in hamsters.
Regular wellness checks, an active lifestyle, and a hamster-specific diet will keep your pet happy and healthy for a long time. Make an appointment with your veterinarian if your hamster is not behaving normally. A quick diagnosis can help you treat your hamster early, prolong their lifespan, and save you money.
The Vestibular System
Every mammal has a way to keep its balance: the vestibular system located in the inner ear. This combination of tubes and hairs allows your hamster to keep their balance while walking, running (or scurrying), and cycling on its wheel.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, the U.S. Library of Medicine states that the vestibular system consists of two semicircular canals and two otoliths.
The semicircular structures contain a small amount of fluid and tiny hairs. Every time your hamster turns its head, the fluid shifts and bends the hair follicles, which send signals to the cerebellum through nerves.
The otolith organs have tiny crystals on the ends of the tiny hairs, which help your hamster process speed and elevation (like when you go in an elevator).
Whether genetic or caused by infection, a disruption of this system will cause your hamster to wobble, lean, or even fall to one side.
Read Why Is My Hamster Acting Weird?
Ear Infections in Hamsters
You may have experienced an ear infection at some point in your life. Ear infections can cause pain, itching, temporary deafness, and throw off your equilibrium. Hamsters experience similar symptoms.
A hamster with an ear infection may present leaning to one side in addition to the symptoms stated above. Bacterial or viral infection can affect the vestibular system and disrupt the hamster’s balance.
You can start with preventing infection by checking your hamster’s ears thoroughly and regularly. Ear mites are common causes of ear trouble and can lead to disease if left untreated. You can attempt to check for ear mites with a flashlight or wipe your pet’s ear with a white paper towel.