Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My hamster has one red eye and one black. Is she injured or sick?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | unspayed

My hamster has a red and a black eye, but without a light on the both look black, and i only noticed it today after having her for about a month, is she medically okay? I feel as though she could've fallen and injured her eye, and i need to know if i have to see a vet urgently

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 20th, 2017

What you are seeing when you see the red eye is called a tapetal reflection. This is the reflection of the tapetum which is a part of the retina in the back of an eye. It is completely normal and does not impact your hamster's vision at all. It is also normal for the tapetum to be different colors in different eyes so this is why her other eye doesn't look red when the light is shined in directly into it.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 10th, 2017

    It can be normal for a hamster’s eyes to appear red. It can be a result of the reflection of the tapetum (a part of the retina) that is located in the back of the eye. If this is a new finding in Hamilton then it could indicate that he has conjunctivitis (an inflammation of the soft tissues around the eye) or he could have a corneal ulcer (a scratch on the surface of the eye). If this is a recent change in Hamilton then he needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian. He may need special drops to put in the eye to help it heal. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored