Why are my hamster's eyes crusty and swollen? Is it pinkeye?

The eye does look a bit irritated. You can clean the spot with a washcloth to help keep the eye open and clear, and to allow you to inspect it for any wounds or additional irritation. If it doesn't clear up on its own after a day or so, seems to worsen, or the crusting continues or worsens, it would be best to have it examined by a vet in person to rule out any injuries or infections in the eye that could be causing it.

It is difficult to say exactly what is causing Gordon's eye to be protruding without seeing him in person or a photo. This can be caused either by the eyeball itself being enlarged or something pushing the eyeball outwards from behind. The first case can be due to a very deep ulcer or a condition known as glaucoma, where excess fluid builds up in the eyeball. Something can be pushing the eye outwards, such as a mass or abscess (walled off infection). Gordon does need veterinary care to determine what is going on and begin the appropriate treatment. I recommend calling vet clinics in your area to see if they see hamsters. Some Petco stores may have a clinic associated with them. The red/brown staining you saw is likely porphyrin, which is a normal secretion from the tear glands, that is usually groomed off. The fact that it is present is an indication that Gordon is not grooming that side of his face as he should be. I hope this helps and that all is well!

I am sorry that this is happening to Junie B. I would be concerned about the possibility of an eye injury, and infection, a tooth root abscess, or even a tumor could cause these symptoms. I would highly recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian soon. In the meantime I would recommend that you use a warm water compress to soak the eye once or twice a day. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

the swollen cheek is usually just food in his food pouch but the crusty eye and ear are both something to worry about, you will need to take him to the vet ASAP in order to get it checked and treated, if it's an infection he will need antibiotics.

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear about Maruko's eye. It certainly does look like it's a bit irritated. This could be a few different conditions - it could be an infection of the eyelids (called blepharitis), infection of the conjunctiva (pink eye), or an abrasion or scratch on the cornea. The treatment will depend on the condition, but only a vet will be able to prescribe medication that will help. In the meantime, keeping the eye clean with a soft cloth and some warm water will help prevent further irritation. Application of a protective eye ointment may also help with discomfort - artificial tears ointment is a good choice for this (you can find it at a drugstore or on Amazon). There are other, more serious conditions that Maruko could have (like glaucoma), but this is less likely considering her young age. I strongly suggest a vet visit if this condition doesn't clear up within the next day as continued eye irritation can cause permanent damage to her eye. Good luck, and I hope that M

Hi, and thanks for your question. That is likely to be due to a moderate to severe conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

I would continue to wipe the eye clear daily to make sure it stays open. If there is any discolored discharge from it, this could indicate an infection has formed or there is still an underlying issue. If the discharge is clear, making sure that Winston's environment is clean and dust free may help as well to reduce irritation. If the eye doesn't clear up on its own after a few days of cleaning, worsens, or other symptoms of illness appear, a recheck with your vet is best.

That is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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.

It sounds as if Teddy may have a pretty severe infection, illness or neurologic issue. Since he is having trouble balancing and his eyes are swollen shut it is best to seek veterinary care immediately for an exam and treatment as these are very concerning symptoms.