3303. A lethargic, eyelid closed and rapid breathing dwarf hamster is not eating

The owner said that several neighbourhood vets do not treat hamsters. One referred him to a clinic in Ang Mo Kio but it was closed. His daughter googled and the couple came to Toa Payoh Vets.

The dwarf hamster was in excellent bodily condition but was very lethargic and breathing fast. His eyelids were shut tight. These are signs of a very serious infection via the blood stream. What is the cause? I examined the lower body. There were dampness near the umbilical area when the area should be dry. There could be a wound which became infected with rapidly spreading bacteria. Hence the sudden anorexia and lethargy within 2 days.   

Lethargy, eyelid closed and rapid breathing are poor prognostic signs in the dwarf hamster's health as it indicated a systemic blood-borne infection. He passed away two hours later despite treatment.

Video at consultation: