Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Can hamsters give diseases to humans? Are they safe for my family?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | 11 months and 11 days old

Heloo doctor, does hamster brings any disease to the human? please suggest.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 7th, 2018

In general, there are very few instances of any diseases being passed from a hamster to a human. There are, however, rare instances of some diseases (bacterial or rarely viral) being passed from small mammals to humans. The ones we may rarely see in hamsters could include Camplyobacter, Salmonella, and Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus. You can read more about these diseases at https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/small-mammals/index.html . As I mentioned, however, they are very rare.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 13th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding your potential hamster! There are a few diseases that can be spread from hamsters to people, but it is very uncommon. There are some gastrointestinal infections, skin disease such as ringworm, and a very rare viral infection. Basic hygiene will prevent the spread of these diseases. Wash your hands after handling the hamster and after cleaning the cage. This is true with any pet though. I hope this information helps. I do not think of hamsters as a threat to human health. However, if you, or anyone in the home, has a compromised immune system the risk will by higher. Good 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