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I just noticed a darkish spot near the skin on my ...

Sent to Pet Experts September 12 09:57 PM

I just noticed a darkish spot near the skin on my teddy bear hamster's back under the fur. It doesn't appear to be hard or lumpy, nor does it seem to bother the hamster when touched, but I'm concerned that it could be a sign of something serious. What could this be attributable to?

 

Optional Information:
Age: <1; Male; Breed: teddy bear hamster

Already Tried:
nothing

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $15
Info Request
September 13 8:54 AM (10 hours and 56 minutes and 32 seconds later)
         
REPLIED to Info RequestCheck Mark

How old is your Hammie?

Is the spot raised like a wart or flat like a mole or freckle?

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Terri Riba -- Animal Healthcare expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2752 Pet Accepts
20+ years in vet care: General medicine Emergency/ critical care/ behavior/ nutrition/ holistics
Reply
September 13 10:03 AM (1 hour and 8 minutes and 42 seconds later)
         
Reply to Terri Riba's Post: I don't know exactly how old he is, but we bought him from Petco in March of this year, and at the time the salesperson said he was a "baby".

The spot doesn't feel like it's raised - it's more like a mole, and he doesn't seem to mind us touching it.

The only reason we even noticed it now is that he had "hibernated" a couple of days ago and we kept checking to see if he was OK. He is now exhibiting "normal" behavior.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
September 13 10:15 AM (11 minutes and 56 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

Dear friend,

This is nothing to worry about as long as it does not become infected or sore. It is normal for Hammies to develope skin discolorations as they age. He may have gotten an irritaion from his wheel or a piece of bedding. You should only use carefresh (paper base).

If it gets cold in the room where he is kept - he WILL hibernate so do not be surprised about that.

Here is a link to hamster care:

http://www.hamsterhideout.com/hamstercare.html

Please let me know if you have any more questions about your sweet little guy. I will be happy to help.

Warmest best wishes,

Terri

 

Picture
Terri Riba -- Animal Healthcare expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2752 Pet Accepts
20+ years in vet care: General medicine Emergency/ critical care/ behavior/ nutrition/ holistics
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