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Why is my hamster's eye swollen, closed, and has a lump under it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 4 months old | 0 lbs

Hello, I'm worried about my Russian Dwarf hamster. Just two or three days ago I noticed a small, light pink lump under the back of his left eye. Naturally, I was hoping that it would go away. But it looks slightly bigger and darker today. Whenever he wakes, his left eye is slightly closed with a bag underneath it (as if he had rubbed it but obviously can't) but the more he runs around and longer he is awake his eye returns to normal size, except the lump is still there. Starting to worry

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on May 18th, 2017

It could be a small cyst or local infection/inflammation. If it grows or if he begins pawing or rubbing at it then have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating pocket pets. Change the bedding and sanitize the cage. If you use wood shavings, consider switching to a recycled paper bedding material. This may cut down on dust and tiny splinters that could be irritating.

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