🐹 Why Is My Hamster Scratching Its Ears?

If your hamster frequently scratches its ears, don’t ignore it! 🚨
While mild itching is normal, excessive scratching can lead to:
❌ Ear injuries or torn ears
❌ Irritability and loss of appetite
❌ Serious infections if left untreated!

📌 If your hamster keeps scratching its ears, take it to the vet as soon as possible!

🐭 Common Causes & Solutions

 1. Environmental Allergies

 Possible allergens:
🔹 Bedding material (wood shavings, cotton)
🔹 Wooden accessories or food
🔹 Dust, fragrances, or strong cleaning agents

✅ What to do:
✅ Try switching to paper-based bedding
✅ Avoid strong scents and cleaning chemicals
✅ Observe for improvements—if it persists, consult a vet

👂 2. Earwax Buildup or Ear Infection

💡 Excess earwax can breed bacteria 🦠
💡 Inner ear growths can cause itching and discomfort

✅ What to do:
✅ Use ear drops (only under vet guidance)
✅ Gently clean with saline solution (be very careful!)

⚠ If the ear appears red, swollen, or smells bad, seek veterinary care immediately!

🐹 3. Age-Related Ear Inflammation

🔹 Older hamsters are more prone to ear infections
🔹 While not preventable, stress reduction can help

✅ What to do:
✅ Keep the living environment clean and stress-free
✅ Don’t overclean, as it may cause anxiety!

📌 Recommended cleaning schedule:
🔸 Bedding → Change half every 2 days
🔸 Sand bath & toilet sand → Change daily

⚠️ If Left Untreated, It Can Lead to Severe Issues!

❌ Inner ear infections 🦠 → Can spread to the respiratory system!
❌ Loss of balance 🚨 → Hamster may start wobbling while walking!

📢 If you notice redness, swelling, foul odor, or excessive head shaking, take your hamster to the vet immediately! 🏥