Why is my hamster itching, losing fur, not eating, and lethargic?

Question

My hamster is itching all the time and not eating very much, he is not running around as much either and there is a massive bald patch of skin from his ears to about one quarter/half of the way down. The hair on the rest of his body is thinner as well. Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male | 1 year and 5 months old

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

Your hamster may be suffering from ectoparasites such as mites or fleas and/or an allergy to the bites. I suggest you take him to a veterinarian for a hands-on exam and diagnosis. The vet can prescribe or treat your hamster with a proper medicine to kill the parasites. There are mite treatments for hamsters available in the pet shops, but I am not sure whether they are effective. You will definitely need to clean and disinfect your hamster's cage, bedding and toys and food and water containers to hopefully prevent the mites from reinfecting your hamster after treatment.

Why is my hamster itching, losing fur, not eating, and lethargic?

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