Your hamster is losing its fur and you don’t know what to do? Hamsters can lose fur naturally in small amounts, but this is not the case when they are sick or stressed. Therefore, if you notice that your hamster is losing a lot of fur, consult a veterinarian to ensure there is no underlying health problem.
Possible causes of fur loss
Fur loss in hamsters can have several causes. Among the most common are stress, poor diet, vitamin or mineral deficiency, illness, parasites, or being in heat.
Stress is one of the main causes of fur loss in hamsters. These small animals are very sensitive to noise and changes in their environment, which can easily disrupt them. It is your responsibility to provide them with a stable and quiet living environment and not to handle them too often. If you notice that your hamster is losing its fur, try to identify what might be stressing it and correct it.
A poor diet is also a common cause of fur loss in hamsters. These small animals need a balanced diet to stay healthy. If you do not provide them with enough vitamins, or if you give them poor-quality food, they will lose their fur.
Certain illnesses can also cause fur loss in hamsters. If your pet is sick, have it diagnosed by a veterinarian and provide the necessary care.
Parasites are another common cause of fur loss in hamsters. If your pet is infested with parasites, treat it promptly to prevent it from becoming a health threat.
How to prevent fur loss in hamsters
There are several ways to prevent fur loss in hamsters. The first is to brush them regularly with a soft-bristle brush. This will help to remove dead fur and stimulate blood circulation.
Additionally, you should feed them a nutrient-rich diet, particularly one high in biotin. This B vitamin is essential for the health of fur and nails. Finally, make sure your hamster has enough space to exercise and expend energy. Hamsters that are not active enough can also suffer from fur loss.
When should you be concerned?
If your pet is losing a few tufts of fur here and there, there is no need to worry; this is perfectly normal. However, if it is losing fur regularly and abundantly, it is time to be concerned.
The first step is to identify the cause: if you think it is due to stress or poor eating habits, you just need to remedy the situation by changing those living conditions.
Conversely, if you suspect a parasite or illness, we advise you to consult an animal health professional without delay, so they can provide a diagnosis and necessary medications, or in some extreme cases, proceed with a medical intervention.