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My hamster's breath smells bad. What's causing it and how to help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Female | unspayed | 2 years old | 1lb

My hamsters breath smells bad.. What do I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 5th, 2018

If she will allow, gently look in her mouth to see if her teeth are overgrown or maloccluded. If so, she will need to see your veterinarian. You can also get her to empty her cheek pouches with gentle pressure on the sides of her face. Sometimes, a hamster will keep food in there too long and it will begin to rot. This rotting food will smell and could lead to infection. If she is lethargic or not eating, have her seen by your vet to diagnose and treat infection or injury.

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