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Hamster not eating, shedding, scabs: Can I help him at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Hamster | Male | unneutered | 2 lbs

Hello! My hamster is not eating much, he usually eats alot everytime i feed him, but lately he hasn't been having an appetite. He has a small scab on his back and he is seriously shedding so badly. I am super worried and i really want to go to the vet but i don't have the money.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 29th, 2020

The spot on his back may be contributing to his condition, but you should check his teeth first. A hamster's teeth are always growing, so they need to chew constantly to keep them trimmed. If they don't, it can lead to overgrown or misaligned teeth which can certainly affect the appetite. If his teeth need to be trimmed, your veterinarian will need to do it. In the meantime, soak hos food to soften it. Keep his cage clean and dry. Keep him warm and as stress free as possible until he sees the doctor. If the spot on his back is due to minor infection or irritation, you can try gently cleaning it with a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution once or twice daily. Be sorento dry it thoroughly afterwards.

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