Seizures in Teddy Bear Hamsters

A hamster that is experiencing seizures may tire easily and lose its balance.

Teddy bear hamsters can have seizures and strokes, although these conditions are rare. However, due to the hamster's nocturnal nature, seizures are not always easy to detect. Because of the small size and short life spans of teddy bear hamsters, these types of neurological disorders are not easily treated.

Identification

A hamster that has had a seizure or stroke may lose coordination, walk in circles, tilt its head to one side and fall down repeatedly, according to the Popular Pets website.

Causes

Teddy bear hamsters may begin to have seizures as a result of a brain injury, ingesting something poisonous, an inner ear infection, undetected diabetes or simply due to old age.

Considerations

Teddy bear hamsters are most active at night, which is when they are more likely to have a seizure or stroke. A hamster that tires easily or even collapses may be on the verge of convulsions.

Effects

According to the Hamster-Zone website, a hamster that has suffered a stroke is capable of recovering to a large degree, but may need help eating and drinking until it regains most of its mobility.

Expert Insight

If a teddy bear hamster is suspected of having a seizure, it should be housed in a glass aquarium without an exercise wheel to avoid further injury, according to the Hamsterific website.

References

• Popular Pets: Hamsters and Strokes
• Hamster-Zone: Hamster Illness
• Hamsterific: Quick Reference Illness Guide a

Resources

• Hamster-Club: Will Normal Household Foods Poison my Hamster?