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My hamster's paw is swollen and red for months. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male | unneutered

My hamster’s little pinky finger has been swollen and red for a couple months now. Swelling has not decreased. May have actually gotten worse. I’m not sure what to do. He is my baby. Hopefully you can help!

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 11th, 2018

This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) may be needed to solve the problem. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. 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.

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