If your hamster has been injured or taken a serious fall, his body may go into shock.You will be able to tell something is wrong with him even if you didn't see it.If your hamster needs a combination of first aid and treatment, you can give it to him at home.Act quickly to help him recover and get back to normal.
Step 1: There are signs of shock in your hamster.
The organs in the body don't get enough blood or oxygen.When your hamster is in shock, he will look limp and have a confused look in his eyes.His body temperature will drop if he doesn't have good blood circulation.Your hamster will shiver and feel cold.A rapid pulse and shallow breathing are some of the signs of shock.
Step 2: Warm up your pet.
Give your hamster some first aid at home before you take him to the vet.Increasing his circulation is the best first aid you can give.Rub his body slowly as you pick him up.When you rub him, be gentle.He doesn't need vigorous rubbing to improve his blood circulation.As you rub him, he should warm up.
Step 3: Move your animal.
If your hamster is still out of it, you can place him back in his cage and move him to a warm, dark, and quiet area of your home.The room's quiet will help him recover from noise and distraction.After about 30 to 60 minutes, check on him to see if he has improved.If not, you should take him to your doctor.
Step 4: Take your pet to the vet.
If your hamster is showing signs of improvement, your vet should check him out.If your hamster is injured, your vet will need to treat it.Some fluids may be given to your hamster by your doctor.Depending on the extent of your hamster's injuries, you may need to give him pain medication to help him recover.Your vet will let you know what your hamster needs.
Step 5: Your hamster's cage should be safer.
As much as your hamster likes to run and play, he may play too hard and hurt himself in his cage.You need to make sure your hamster's cage is injury-proof.If the cage is multi-level, make sure your hamster has a sturdy ladder or ramp so he can get from one level to the other without falling.If the cage already has wire ramps or ladders, cover them with a solid material.
Step 6: It's a good idea to keep an eye on your hamster.
Outside of the cage is where your hamster likes to play.He could hurt himself if he is outside of his cage.If you have him in a hamster ball, keep him away from the stairs.A fall down the stairs could cause serious injury.Your hamster could be knocked unconscious if you roll the ball down the stairs.He will need veterinary care if he is unconscious or in shock.If you keep your hamster in an enclosed room, he won't be able to roll down the stairs.Another idea is to put a hula-hoop on the ground and have the hamster ball roll around in it.If your hamster is allowed to run free in the room, make sure he doesn't climb on furniture.He could suffer a serious injury if he jumps or falls.
Step 7: Children are handling a hamster.
Children can be rough with small pets, such as hamsters, without knowing they are hurting the animal.If you have small children, keep an eye on them.You can place the hamster back in his cage if they are handling him too much.This time could be used to teach you how to properly hold a hamster.