Hamster With Red Eyes: What Does It Mean and When To See A Vet

Many believe that hamsters with red eyes are an evil breed since they look different. But red-eyed hamsters are like other hamsters but with a specific name, albino. These hamsters have less melanin pigment, and it impacts their eye color. The albino hamsters will have white coats and red eyes. However, it is normal and does not indicate any health issues. Also, your hamster might have red eyes due to other conditions, including infection and irritants. You might need to see your vet when caused by germs, dust irritants, or similar sources.

We will know more about the causes of red eyes in hamsters in the following. You will know when it is natural, how to take care of red-eyed hamsters, and when you should talk to your vet. Keep reading and give the best possible care to your non-human little companion.

CAUSES OF RED EYES IN HAMSTERS

LESS MELANIN

As mentioned earlier, less melanin causes red eyes in hamsters. Melanin is a pigment that plays a role in the color of your pet. It gives color to the eyes, hair, and fur of hamsters. Less pigment means less tint, and the coat, eyes, and hair will look different. The body will be white, and the eyes will look red. When the bright red tint is due to melanin insufficiency, you will have to take extra care of your pet, but you do not need to visit a vet to correct it. These are albino hamsters, and they are normal like other hamsters. You do not need to worry about red eyes when it happens due to less melanin.

BLINDNESS

Another possible cause of red eyes is blindness. The hamster might have cognitive or acquired blindness. This condition causes red eyes, and you can be sure about the blindness with careful observation. Consider immediate medical attention when your pet is suffering from blindness. Here are a few symptoms that indicate that your pet has blindness.

* The movement is slow or rare in the initial days of your hamster’s life.
* Your pet does not respond to your commands.
* Your pet does not involve in other activities and does not interact with others.

These are the indications that your hamster is born blind. However, your pet can harm the eyes when flighting or playing with other hamsters. You can notice the difference in the eyes. If there is a change in the color or it is visibly red, it might be due to some injuries. You’ll be able to visit your vet right away. Immediate attention is a must to avoid complete blindness.

INFECTION

An infection can also cause red eyes in hamsters. Your pet might get an infection when living in a dirty setting. Most hamsters get eye infections from their uncleaned and poorly-maintained cages. The uncleaned items and litter will have germs and might cause eye infections. When you sense it is due to the germs, focus on cleaning. Also, you’ll have to treat it right away. If you ignore an infection for a long time, the treatment process will be longer and more complex. Your pet might experience more discomfort and pain as well.

Many ignore or try to treat eye infections at home. However, every breed will have specific requirements, and incorrect treatment might lead to partial and complete blindness. Hence, avoid any risks and treat the infection with experienced vets. They will ensure fast recovery, and the treatment will be safe.

Almost all small pets will need a trip to the Vet at some point.  Click the box below to find out how to save money when you need the Vet.

DIRT AND DUST

Your hamster’s eyes might look red due to dirt and dust irritation. The pet might have this condition If it explores your house freely. In most cases, these irritations will have minimal impacts. You can observe the pet to know the cause. You can use chamomile decoration or potassium permanganate for minor infections caused by dust. However, talk to your vet when the redness is severe and causes pain.

HOW TO KNOW THE RIGHT CAUSE

When your hamster has red eyes from birth, it might be due to the lack of melanin. You will have to live with this condition since it is normal and untreatable. Also, born blindness can cause eye redness in your pet. If you find your pet is unresponsive or dull most of the time, it might be due to born blindness. Could you talk to your vet to learn how to live with this condition?

Severe and sudden redness might be due to some irritants. You can be sure when the cage of your pet is poorly maintained. In that condition, you will have to visit your vet. Minor irritations are self-resolving, but you can be observant to avoid any complex situation. If you see redness worsening, you can reach out to your vet. When it is about the eyes of your little companion, you must avoid taking risks.

DO RED-EYED (ALBINO) HAMSTERS NEED SPECIFIC CARE?

Yes, albino hamsters will need specific care to live a healthy life. They will have more health issues than other hamsters. Red-eyed hamsters are prone to some conditions that others are less likely to experience. The albino hamster will be susceptible to skin and visual diseases and might have papilloma and skin ulcers. Also, your pet will be prone to some life-threatening diseases, including cancer.

In addition, Albino hamsters’ eyes are sensitive to sunlight. You will have to protect them from the sun and keep their cage in a safe place. The red-eyed hamsters will get stressed faster than others. They will be more physically and mentally sensitive. However, red-eyed hamsters can live for two to three years with proper care and suitable living conditions.

You will have to keep red-eyed hamsters separate from other hamsters. Also, protect the cage from sunlight, maintain cleanliness, and remove the litter on time. Make sure that the hamster’s cage is comfortable and in a peaceful spot. Consider a sand bath instead of a water bath when having an albino hamster.

The health and lifespan of your pet will depend on you. Please create a safe and comfortable living space for your furry buddy and address all health concerns as soon as possible.