Why Is My Hamster Sneezing So Much? (+ What To Do About It)

As with any pet, hamsters can develop health issues that require attention and care from their owners. One common symptom that hamster owners may notice is sneezing. So, let’s learn more about it.

Your hamster may be sneezing due to irritants such as dust or bedding material, allergies, or a respiratory infection. It’s important to take them to a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Keeping their living space clean and well-ventilated can help alleviate symptoms in the meantime.

If your hamster is sneezing frequently or persistently, it may indicate an underlying health issue that requires veterinary attention.

In this article, we will explore some of the common reasons why hamsters sneeze, how to tell if your hamster is sneezing or squeaking, and what you can do to help your furry friend feel better.

Jump To

Is It Normal For Hamsters To Sneeze?

Occasional sneezing in hamsters is normal, just like in humans.

However, if your hamster is sneezing frequently or has other respiratory symptoms like discharge from the nose or eyes, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, it may indicate a respiratory infection or allergy.

Respiratory infections are common in hamsters, especially those kept in environments with poor ventilation or high humidity levels.

Allergies can also cause respiratory symptoms in hamsters, and common allergens include dust, hay, and certain types of bedding.

If you notice that your hamster is sneezing frequently or has other respiratory symptoms, it’s best to take them to a veterinarian who can diagnose and treat the underlying cause.

In the meantime, ensure that their living environment is clean and well-ventilated, and consider using a different type of bedding if allergies are suspected.

Reasons Why Your Hamster Might Be Sneezing?

There are several reasons why your hamster might be sneezing, including:

Respiratory infections: Hamsters are susceptible to respiratory infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. These infections can cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. Respiratory infections can be caused by poor ventilation or overcrowding in the hamster’s environment, so it’s important to keep their living space clean and well-ventilated.
Allergies: Hamsters can be allergic to certain types of bedding, food, or environmental factors like dust or pollen. Allergic reactions can cause sneezing, itching, and other symptoms. If you suspect that your hamster has an allergy, try changing their bedding or removing potential allergens from their environment.
Irritants: Hamsters can be sensitive to irritants in their environment, such as cleaning products, cigarette smoke, or perfumes. These irritants can cause sneezing and other respiratory symptoms. Try to avoid exposing your hamster to these irritants or use more natural cleaning products.
Dry environment: Hamsters need a humid environment to keep their respiratory tract moist. If the air in their living space is too dry, it can cause sneezing and other respiratory symptoms. Try adding a humidifier or misting their living space with water to increase the humidity.
Stress: Hamsters can become stressed due to changes in their environment or routine. Stress can weaken their immune system, making them more susceptible to infections and respiratory problems. Try to keep their environment stable and minimize changes as much as possible.

If your hamster is sneezing frequently or has other respiratory symptoms, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian for an evaluation. Respiratory problems can be serious and require prompt treatment to prevent complications.

Why Does My Hamster Make Sneezing Noises?

If your hamster is making sneezing noises, it could be a sign of respiratory problems. Sneezing noises can indicate that your hamster is having difficulty breathing or has a respiratory infection.

Other signs of respiratory problems in hamsters include wheezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and labored breathing.

Respiratory problems in hamsters can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor ventilation, allergies, irritants in their environment, and stress.

If left untreated, respiratory problems can lead to serious health complications and even death.

It’s important to take your hamster to a veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice any signs of respiratory problems.

The vet can diagnose the underlying cause of your hamster’s sneezing and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or changes to their environment to reduce irritants or allergens.

In addition to medical treatment, there are several things you can do to help your hamster recover from respiratory problems.

Keep their living space clean and well-ventilated, avoid exposing them to irritants or allergens, and make sure they have access to fresh water and food.

You may also want to provide your hamster with a humidifier or mist their living space with water to increase the humidity and help soothe their respiratory tract.

How Do I Know If My Hamster Has A Respiratory Infection?

Respiratory infections are common in hamsters and can be serious if left untreated. Some signs that your hamster may have a respiratory infection include:

Sneezing: Hamsters can sneeze occasionally, but frequent sneezing may be a sign of a respiratory infection.
Coughing: A persistent dry or wet cough can indicate a respiratory infection.
Labored breathing: If your hamster is struggling to breathe or making wheezing noises, they may have a respiratory infection.
Nasal discharge: Discharge from the nose can indicate an infection in the respiratory tract.
Loss of appetite: Hamsters with respiratory infections may feel too ill to eat.
Lethargy: Respiratory infections can cause your hamster to feel tired and lethargic.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your hamster, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

The vet can diagnose the underlying cause of your hamster’s respiratory problems and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or other medications to help ease their symptoms.

In addition to medical treatment, you can also help your hamster recover from a respiratory infection by keeping their living space clean and well-ventilated, avoiding exposure to irritants and allergens, and providing them with plenty of fresh water and food.

You may also want to add a humidifier or mist their living space with water to help soothe their respiratory tract and make it easier for them to breathe.

Can Hamsters Sneeze To Death?

It is unlikely for a hamster to sneeze to death. Sneezing is a normal bodily function that helps to clear the respiratory tract of irritants, dust, and other particles.

While frequent sneezing can be a sign of respiratory problems, it is rare for sneezing alone to be fatal to a hamster.

However, if a hamster has a severe respiratory infection or other underlying health problems, it is possible for sneezing to contribute to their overall decline in health.

Respiratory infections can be serious in hamsters and can lead to complications such as pneumonia, which can be fatal if left untreated.

It’s important to take your hamster to a veterinarian if you notice any signs of respiratory problems, such as frequent sneezing, coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing.

In addition to medical treatment, you can also help your hamster recover from respiratory problems by keeping their living space clean and well-ventilated, avoiding exposure to irritants and allergens, and providing them with plenty of fresh water and food.

Is My Hamster Sneezing Or Squeaking?

It can sometimes be difficult to tell whether your hamster is sneezing or squeaking.

Sneezing in hamsters typically sounds like a quick and repeated “choo” or “chee” sound.

Squeaking, on the other hand, can vary in pitch and intensity and may sound more like a high-pitched chirp or whistle.

To help determine whether your hamster is sneezing or squeaking, you can observe their behavior and any accompanying symptoms.

If your hamster is making the noise while they are moving around or playing, it is more likely that they are squeaking.

However, if your hamster is making the noise while they are resting or sleeping, it may be more likely that they are sneezing.

It’s also important to look for any accompanying symptoms, such as discharge from the nose, wheezing, or labored breathing, as these can indicate respiratory problems.

If you are unsure whether your hamster is sneezing or squeaking or if you notice any signs of respiratory problems, it’s a good idea to take them to a veterinarian for a check-up.

The vet can diagnose the underlying cause of your hamster’s symptoms and prescribe appropriate treatment if necessary.

Also Read: Why Do Hamsters Squeak? (Causes, Signs & Remedy)

How Do I Stop My Hamster From Sneezing?

If your hamster is sneezing frequently, it could be a sign of respiratory problems or an underlying health issue. Therefore, it’s important to identify the underlying cause of the sneezing before attempting to stop it.

Here are some steps you can take to help reduce sneezing in your hamster:

Take your hamster to a veterinarian: If you notice that your hamster is sneezing frequently, take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet can examine your hamster and determine the underlying cause of their sneezing. Treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or other medications to help ease their symptoms.
Keep their living space clean: Ensure that your hamster’s living space is clean and well-ventilated. Regularly clean their bedding and remove any dirty or soiled materials. Dirty and dusty living spaces can aggravate respiratory problems.
Avoid exposure to irritants: Avoid exposing your hamster to irritants such as tobacco smoke, cleaning products, and perfumes. These can irritate their respiratory tract and cause sneezing.
Humidify their living space: If your hamster is sneezing due to dry air, you can add a humidifier to their living space or mist their living space with water. This can help soothe their respiratory tract and reduce sneezing.
Feed them a healthy diet: Ensure that your hamster is eating a healthy diet that is rich in nutrients. This can help boost their immune system and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

Overall, if your hamster is sneezing frequently, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the sneezing.

Following the veterinarian’s advice and making the necessary changes to their living space and diet can help reduce the frequency of sneezing in your hamster.

What To Do If My Hamster Has A Cold?

If you suspect that your hamster has a cold, it’s important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Hamsters have delicate respiratory systems, and a cold can quickly progress to a more serious respiratory infection if left untreated.

Your veterinarian will examine your hamster, listen to their breathing, and may perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of their symptoms.

Based on their findings, they may prescribe medications such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs to help alleviate your hamster’s symptoms and promote healing.

While your hamster is recovering, there are a few things you can do to help them feel more comfortable.

First, ensure that their living space is clean and well-ventilated to minimize exposure to irritants that can worsen respiratory symptoms.

Second, provide them with plenty of fresh water and a nutritious diet to support their immune system.

You can also offer your hamster extra bedding or a warm blanket to help them feel more comfortable.

It’s important to monitor your hamster’s symptoms closely and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any changes or worsening of their condition.

Respiratory infections can quickly become serious in hamsters, so it’s essential to seek veterinary care as soon as possible if you suspect your hamster is ill.

By working closely with your veterinarian and providing supportive care at home, most hamsters can recover from a cold and return to their normal activities.

Sale

Choco Nose Patented Mini No-Drip Water Bottle/Feeder for Hamsters/Hedgehogs/Gliders/Rats/Mice and Other Small Pets and Animals - for Cages, Crates or Wall...

STAYbowl Tip-Proof Ergonomic Pet Bowl for Guinea Pig and Other Small Pets; 1/4-Cup Size; Sky Blue

Patent-pending STAYbowl saves time and money; no more wasted guinea pig food; Ensures pet health and wellness; reduces overfeeding and food competition