Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My hamster's fur is strange after sticky trap removal. Is it wet tail?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | 9 months and 10 days old

My hamster got out of his cage yesterday morning and got stuck on a sticky trap. We got him off and used vegetable oil to get the sticky off of him. Then we used a washcloth barely wet to get the oil out. Then I called my vet and they said to use a drop of blue dawn to get the rest of the oil out. I did then dried him the best I could now is fur is weird. Also I'm worried he has wet tail although he has no symptoms. I'm so worried about him. Please help.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 28th, 2017

for right now, keeping Eliot fed & providing adequate moisture is the key. Soaking his pellets, offering fruit & vegetable baby foods, even using Oxbows Critical Care for bunnies is appropriate. If he is still symptomatic on Monday, have your veterinarian evaluate him in case he needs deworming or an antibiotic. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, & sorry for the disconnect. The dog hit return on my keyboard.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello. Wet tail is usually a bacterial infection of hamsters, but can also be thought of as a symptom rather than a diagnosis. The vegetable oil probably gave him the loose stool from grooming it out of his coat. He may also have ingested a bit of the soap, too. Antibiotics may be necessary, but

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is it normal for a pregnant guinea pig to zoom after cage cleaning?
Is your pregnant guinea pig running in circles after a cage cleaning? A trusted vet explains if this is normal and what to watch for during her 59-72 day gestation.
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 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 degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
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