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Over the past two days I have notices two patches on my hamster fur, where he seems to be licking more frequently (it appears wetish/clumped) just in front of his hind legs on his sides.. under these are two back spots almost like moles, and I am just wondering what these are? Is he ok? He seems in good health, is eating well and is happy to be handled.

I would really appreciate a reply
Thanks
Becky

Submitted: 151 days and 17 hours ago.
Category: Pet
Value: $9
Status: AWAITING CUSTOMER ACTION
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Posted by Anna 151 days and 17 hours ago.

Info Request

Hello Becky,

Is your hamster one of the Syrian varieties - teddy bear, golden, fancy?

How old is he?

Thank you for the additional information.

Anna

Answer

It appears that you went offline before seeing my request for information. I'm going to assume that your hamster is a Syrian, because I'm almost certain he is. If so, these are not sores; they are the hamster's scent glands. The little glands produce a secretion that male hamsters use to mark their territory. Hamsters may scratch, bite, and lick them, and then rub on things to spread the scent around. Sometimes a waxy or greasy secretion is visible. In some hamsters the scent glands are normally pink/red. In others they have a yellowish or blackish appearance. All of this is normal. If the scent glands become swollen, there may be a problem that requires a vet's attention. Scent glands can become infected or impacted. You can read more about the scent glands on this site:

http://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/vet-dept/avian-exotic-dept/hamster-scent-glands.aspx

If you have more questions about this, just let me know by clicking on REPLY.

Anna

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Expert: Anna
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 6/23/2009

Pet Expert/Biologist

40 yrs.: herps, pocket pets, rabbits, poultry, dogs, horses. Biology degree. Volunteer vet assistant

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