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My hamster has a burst abscess. How do I treat it without a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My hamster has an abscess and it has burst and is open at the top and can't afford a vet

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on December 19th, 2017

Poor baby! He probably needs some oral antibiotics but since cost is a concern, you can try treating at home. I would gently try to express any pus out of the ruptured area. I would do this the next few days until you are no longer getting any pus out. I would try to clean it with some mild soap and water after you squeeze it. If it is near his ears or eyes, be care to not get it in his ears or eyes. You can try putting some neosporin on the area twice a day as well. If possible, do not let him lick it. You can use a small piece of plastic and make a small cone collar to prevent this if needed. With these guys being so tiny, you will likely have to make your own temporary collar. I have attached a video of how to make one for a sugar glider which are similar in size. I hope this helps and you are able to get it to heal on its own. Just know that if he stops eating or it isn’t improving within a couple of days then it likely won’t heal without some oral antibiotics. Also if the abscess is near the mouth, it could be a tooth root abscess which will also need to be treated by a vet. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=67Zn5rsPW5Y

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