Blindness
Partial or complete loss of vision. Hamsters typically adapt very well by relying on their excellent sense of smell, hearing, and by using their whiskers to navigate.
Usually results from:
- cataracts
- old age
- injury
- congenital defects
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Inflammation of the tissues around the eye, causing redness, swelling, and discharge.
Usually results from:
- bacterial infection
- dusty bedding
- foreign material
- injury
- poor cage hygiene
Corneal Ulcer
A scratch or wound on the clear surface of the eye that is painful and can threaten vision if untreated.
Usually results from:
- trauma from bedding
- hay
- sharp cage accessories
- rubbing the eye
- fighting
Cataracts
Clouding of the eye’s lens that gradually reduces vision, most commonly in older hamsters.
Usually results from:
- aging
- genetics
- diabetes (rare)
- previous eye injury
Glaucoma
Increased pressure inside the eye that can cause pain, enlargement of the eye, and permanent blindness.
Usually results from:
- poor drainage of fluid within the eye
- genetics
- inflammation
- previous eye trauma