Stomach Glands (Lumps?) HELP

Nicole314 · 06-27-2015, 02:22 PM

So male hamsters have stomach glands. But is there supposed to be a lump near them more towards their head? One of mine has quite a noticeable one, and another has a smaller one. The third male doesn't seem to have anything there.

And the glands there always seem to have wet hair around them. Is that normal?

It was hard to get pictures, so you can't really see the lump that well, but there is one there.

BrainGirl · 06-28-2015, 07:36 AM

Lumps aren't normal, not that I've seen a lot of male dwarf hamsters. Hopefully someone with more experience will be along! Is there some crustiness on the scent gland itself? Have you tried bathing it with tepid saltwater solution? It may be that the gland has become somewhat clogged. Wetness there is usually ok, it's just the scent that they produce to rub on things. If there's a lot though it may indicate a problem, either a health problem, or a dominance problem. Do they live together?

Nicole314 · 06-28-2015, 11:55 AM

Pepper doesn't live with anyone. Felix and Oliver live together but I'm more concerned about him. It does look a bit crusty. I think I'll try cleaning it. How/What do I mix to clean it with?
I'm going to email my vet and see what she thinks.

BrainGirl · 06-28-2015, 12:55 PM

Quick way is to take a cup of water (clean coffee mugs are great) and add 1/2 tsp. of salt. Microwave it so that the salt dissolves, then let it cool before applying.

Nicole314 · 06-28-2015, 05:22 PM

Okay, I cleaned all three boys. Lavi's looks fine, you can barely see hers anyway. I left a message with my vet and hopefully that lump isn't bad news.

Karinalara89 · 08-16-2020, 09:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nicole314

Okay, I cleaned all three boys. Lavi's looks fine, you can barely see hers anyway. I left a message with my vet and hopefully that lump isn't bad news.

Hi, what did the vet say?
my dwarf hamster has a similar problem, I cleaned it with salt, but the lump is still there.