Bald spot on hamster.

Dr. Marie replied:

I would love to see a picture! Can you email it to photos@askavetquestion.com?

Thanks!

Dr. Marie.


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Dr. Marie replied:

Thanks for the picture of your cutie!



There are only a few things that can cause bald spots in hamsters and also some itchiness. Unfortunately you are likely going to need a vet visit in order to get this cleared up.

It certainly is possible that this is due to mites. Sometimes mites can come in on new bedding. I've seen hamsters with mites even though they have no contact with other hamsters.

Another possibility is a parasite called demodex.

Both mites and demodex are treatable with medication from the vet - either ivermectin or possibly an adaptation of a dog/cat flea medicine.

Some hamsters can get ringworm which can cause these symptoms. Ringworm is a fungal infection. In my experience this is not as common as mites or demodex. Ringworm is treatable with antifungal medicine from the vet.

There are some unusual conditions that can cause hair loss such as lymphoma (a type of cancer) and cushing's disease, but these are unlikely.

If your hamster wasn't itchy I would wonder if she had simply caught herself on something and pulled some fur out, but she shouldn't be itchy.

If this seems to be getting worse rather than better then you'll need to seek out a vet for her. I wish I could give you an at home cure, but there isn't likely to be one.

Dr. Marie.