Accepted Answer

Hello,

I'm sorry to hear your hamsters are having this problem. Constipation is one possible cause of such swelling and soreness. There are a few things you can do to try to help them. Feed them a small amount of a moist food - a bit of apple or strawberry, a few clover leaves from an unsprayed yard, a small piece of romaine lettuce leaf. They should receive foods like these several times a week normally, but give them a bit every day until this problem is solved. You can also give them a few drops of olive oil. Either put it on a treat they'll eat quickly or see if they'll lick the oil off your finger. Here's a link where you can read a few more tips for dealing with constipation:

http://hamsterhideout.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=10605&st=0&p=92578&#entry92578

However, swelling can be the result of several different conditions. A rectal prolapse can also occur - part of the intestine comes out through the anus. That usually appears as a small red or black protrusion. If you go to the following site and scroll down to the section on prolapse, there’s a photo you can compare to:

http://www.hamster-club.com/health.asp

A partial intestinal blockage could also cause swelling. Infection, a tumor, or an internal abnormality, such as a twisted intestine, could also be responsible.

If the problem doesn't improve very quickly, you'll need to see a vet to get a diagnosis of exactly what is the problem. Treatment will depend on what is wrong. It can sometimes be difficult to find a vet who will see hamsters. Here is a link to a directory of rat vets, who would also be good with hamsters:

http://www.ratfanclub.org/vetref.html

If you have more questions, just let me know by clicking on REPLY. I hope your hamsters will be fine.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	7/7/2009

Pet Expert/Biologist

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