The scientific name for hamster wet tail
is Proliferative ileitis. The bacteria which is responsible
for causing wet tail in hamsters also causes intestinal
diseases in dogs and ferrets among other animals. Hamsters
that are under 2 months old are most commonly affected by
this disease although it can happen to hamsters of any age.
Teddy-Bear hamsters (or any hamster with long hair) are
the most susceptible to wet tail.
Common signs include a lack of personal hygiene on the
hamsters part, glossy or sunken eyes, soiled anal area and
overall lethargy. Any combination of these signs usually
indicates wet tail.
Time is of the essence if you suspect your hamster has
wet tail. Death commonly occurs within the first 48 hours
after the hamster has contracted the disease. Treatment
options include anti-biotics and some sort of fluid replacement.
Luckily for hamster caregivers this disease cannot be transmitted
to humans.
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