Hamster Convulsions
Convulsions or seizures in hamsters are a medical emergency. Recognizing a seizure in a hamster can be very difficult because they are such small creatures. They are also prey animals, which mean that they will try to hide any signs of sickness because in the wild, sick animals often get killed and eaten by predators. Campbell's or Russian dwarf hamsters are prone to diabetes, which can cause convulsions.
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Identification
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Hamster convulsions are not as dramatic as an epileptic dog going through a grand mal seizure. The hamster may just stagger, shiver as if very cold, tilt the head to one side or stagger about while trying to walk. The seizure itself may happen too quickly for it to be seen, but the hamster may be found collapsed, as if in a coma. The hamster may actually be in a coma. Take the hamster to a vet immediately, according to veterinarian and microbiologist Elizabeth Newberry.
Causes
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There are many causes of convulsions in hamsters. They can be due to poisoning, stroke, diabetes or a broken limb. Hamsters with coordination problems or keep their heads tilted may have ear infections which throw off their sense of balance. Hamsters that constantly run about in small circles, flipping onto their backs, may have congenital brain defects. According to Newberry, dwarf hamsters are more prone to brain defects than Syrian hamsters, also known as golden hamsters.
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Misconception
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A hamster that flips onto its back and hisses is not having a convulsion. This is an angry hamster trying to defend itself. Hamsters of all species often show this alarming behavior when they are suddenly woken up from a sound sleep or when confronting another hamster. Leave the hamster alone or it will bite.
Diagnosis
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Take a convulsing hamster immediately to a veterinarian. If possible, call the veterinarian first to let her know that the hamster is coming. Place the hamster in a dry, small traveling cage. Even a shoebox with an old towel in it is good for an emergency. The veterinarian can check the ears for infection, the glucose levels and for signs of any internal injuries.
Treatment
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Treatment for the afflicted hamster differs on the cause of the convulsions. Ear infections are easiest to clear up with antibacterial ear drops and anti-parasitical drops if mites are found in the ears. Brain abnormalities are incurable. Hamsters that suffer strokes have been known to recover, according to Hamsteriffic.com. They need to be kept warm and quiet, so remove all climbing toys and the wheel. There is no cure for hamster diabetes, but diet changes can help keep the blood sugar stable. Other symptoms of hamster diabetes include obsessively drinking, increase in hunger and increase in urination.
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References
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- Photo Credit hamster image by cat from Fotolia.com
