Syrian Hamster Health and Tyzzer's Disease

Tyzzer's disease affects many rodents including Syrian hamsters. Tyzzer's disease does not usually cross from one species to the next. Most strains of the disease are unique to one particular species of rodent. Gerbils, however, have been know to contract the disease from another rodent species, although this is not common.

The disease is highly contagious among hamsters. They can easily transfer disease from one hamster to the next. Unfortunately, the disease is usually fatal. In as short as 48 hours are symptoms appear, a hamster can die. Some of the usual symptoms are diarrhea, dehydration, and a general lack of activity. In some cases, the sudden death of the hamster is the only way you know that something is wrong because symptoms are not always apparent.

Separate your hamster from other hamsters right away if you think she might have Tyzzer's disease. Take her to the vet immediately in a covered cage. This will keep the disease from spreading. Antibiotics are usually prescribed if your vet feels that your hamster has Tyzzer's disease. Unfortunately, the only way to be absolutely sure that it is Tyzzer's disease is an examination of the hamster after it is dead.

There are no official records of humans having symptoms of Tyzzer's disease. However, some tests have shown that an infection is present although no symptoms have presented itself. To be safe, always wash your hands properly before and after handling your hamster, even if she is not ill.

You can do these 3 things to help prevent Tyzzer's disease:

Clean your hamster's cage on a regular basis. Replace all bedding material with fresh bedding at least once per week. Change the bedding before you notice any odor. If you are smelling an odor, that means that the bedding is already dirty. Monthly, wash the entire cage and then disinfect it. A good disinfectant to use is one tablespoon bleach added to one gallon of water.

You also want to prevent stress in your hamster as much as possible. If your hamster is sleeping, do not wake her up. Keep your hamster away from too much noise and other activities. Do not allow your children to abuse the hamster. If your hamster gives you any clues that she does not want to be handled, leave her alone.

Most importantly, keep any new hamsters you get separated from the others for at least 2 weeks before you place them with the others. Even if the new hamster appears to be healthy you should still quarantine it. You can never tell if they have some disease or condition that will present itself because of the stress of a new home. You might think it is just an additional expense to buy an extra house, but it will be worth it in the long run.

Now for the good news. Tyzzer's disease is rare in hamsters that are well taken care of and not stressed. So, you should not be worried about your hamster having the disease. Just keep an eye out to be safe.

Andrew Martin is a pet enthusiast and publisher. Find out more about Syrian hamster health be sure to visit http://www.hamstercareanswers.com.