Table of Contents Show
Have you ever owned a hamster and noticed that before they pass away, they start to bleed? It is usually disturbing, and it is natural to wonder why this happens. Hamsters are small animals with unique physiology, and as it turns out, the way they die is quite different from humans and other larger animals.
It can come as a shock to pet owners that hamsters display this condition before their passing. But then, this phenomenon is not entirely uncommon in hamsters, and there may be a medical or unmedical reason behind it.
Understanding the potential causes may make it easier to prepare for and deal with this incident in the future. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why hamsters bleed before they die and also cover all the bases to help you understand the situation to prevent it from happening. Stick around.
Understanding The Mortality Of Hamsters: Why They Bleed Before Death
Hamsters, like every other living creature, have a limited lifespan. The average lifespan of a hamster is typically between 2 – 3 years, although some may live longer than that. As hamsters age, they become more susceptible to health issues, ultimately leading to their death.
One common issue among older hamsters is bleeding before they die. Various factors, such as tumors, infections, and organ failure, can cause this. In some cases, hamsters may also experience internal bleeding due to injury or illnesses.
If you notice your hamster bleeding, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. While some minor bleeding may be easily treatable, more severe cases may require more aggressive intervention or may be a sign the hamster is nearing the end of its life.
In general, it is important to provide your hamster with proper care throughout its life to help ensure a healthy and happy existence.
Is It Normal For Hamsters To Bleed Before Dying?
No, it is not normal for hamsters to bleed before dying. Bleeding from any part of the body, whether internal or external is a sign of a health problem and should be looked into immediately. In most cases, bleeding can be caused by factors like a tumor, cancer, trauma, infections, nutritional deficiencies, etc.
When your hamster starts to bleed without any obvious cuts, it can be indicative of an underlying health condition that mustn’t be ignored as this can sometimes result in the loss of life of the hamster. So when seeing any unexplainable bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.
Factors Causing Hamsters To Bleed Before They Die
Various factors can cause them to bleed before they die. some of the common reasons include;
1. Cancer Or Tumor
One potential reason why hamsters may bleed before passing away is due to cancer or tumors. Tumors or cancer can develop in different body parts, including the lungs, liver, or spleen, which can result in internal bleeding.
2. Trauma
Physical injuries caused by falls, probably from the cage or any high surface, rough handling, or fights with other animals can result in the puncture of wounds, broken bones, or internal bleeding.
3. Infections
Certain infections can cause damage to the blood vessels, leading to internal bleeding. For example, infection of the liver or spleen can be accompanied by blood vessels.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
A deficiency of vitamin K, which is crucial for the proper clotting of blood, can result in excessive bleeding. It is important to note that not all bleeding in hamsters indicates impending death. This is why it is very important to check in with the vet.
5. Stroke
Hemorrhagic stroke is a type of stroke that can cause bleeding in the brain or in any other parts of the body, which can be very very fatal for hamsters.
6. Parasites
Infection of mites, fleas, and ticks can cause amenia, manifesting as bleeding from various bodily cavities.
How To Prevent Hamsters From Bleeding Before Dying
Preventing your hamster from bleeding before dying requires you to take quite a number of precautions. First and foremost, it is essential to always wipe the cage clean to reduce the chances of infections. Use mild soap to wash the bedding from time to time.
Another way to prevent this distressing occurrence is to handle them gently and carefully. Rough plays can cause injuries that may lead to excessive bleeding. If you have kids who love playing with the hamster, supervise them when interacting with it.
Hamsters love chewing on things, which can also lead to injuries if they chew on sharp objects or anything that could harm them. So always ensure their toys are very safe for them to play with.
Feeding your hamster a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals will help boost its immune system and protect them from any medical conditions that can cause internal bleeding. Also, regular checkups at the vet will go a long way to help you detect an issue before it does any permanent damage to your hamster.
What Are The Symptoms Of Internal Bleeding Hamsters?
In some cases, knowing the signs of internal bleeding in hamsters can help save its life. The symptoms, however, depend on the location and severity of the bleeding. That said, here are the common signs to look out for;
- Pale gum or mucous membrane.
- Weakness and lethargy.
- Rapid breathing or difficulty in breathing.
- Reduced appetite and water intake.
- Abdominal swelling.
- Visible blood in urine, feces, and other bodily fluids.
Bottom Line
Hamsters bleeding before they die is not a regular occurrence but it is pretty standard, and medical or external factors usually cause this. Cancer, tumors, infections, parasitic infestations, nutritional deficiencies, or stroke can trigger internal bleeding.
While external factors can result from rough handling or injuries, it is important to pay good attention to your hamster regularly so that you can figure out if something is wrong with them in good time.
Consult with the vet immediately once you notice any abnormal bleeding.
Unlock the Ultimate Home Safety Guide for Your Pets!
From the living room to the great outdoors, learn the ins and outs of pet-proofing every corner of your home. Get the free Ebook.
