Bald patch - why??

[cypher]

I really don't think you need to see a vet at this point, if the hair loss gets worse or he begins to show any other symptoms then would be the time but for now I would just keep an eye on it & see if it grows back.
Did you observe him & see if you could spot anything he might be rubbing against yet?

Symptoms of a UTI are increased drinking & peeing & generally appearing unwell btw.

[pewmouse]

My boys UTI became apparent when I notice his urine occasionally had blood in it, I'm not suggesting that your ham has a UTI as such, I just mentioned it as that was the cause of the stress that caused my boy to have a patch of hair loss. Hopefully you little one is just rubbing against something if he seems otherwise healthy

[Oscarsmum]

Thanks cinnamon. So a normal vet is no good?
We have one just next door and saw him once when we had a pygmy hedgehog a couple of years back.

Do you not reckon normal vets know enough about hamsters?

[Oscarsmum]

Thanks cypher and pewmouse. I havent been able to spot him rubbing against anything in particular but will definitely keep and eye out for that and for signs of UTI too! Thanks for your advice everyone!

[Piebald]

Originally Posted by Oscarsmum

Thanks cinnamon. So a normal vet is no good?
We have one just next door and saw him once when we had a pygmy hedgehog a couple of years back.

Do you not reckon normal vets know enough about hamsters?

That really depends on the vet. Some will have had a few specific courses on "pocket pets" and some will have a bit of experience and some will not have a clue. The clueless ones may not tell you they are just guessing although some of the honest ones may say. If I were you I would ring the vet and ask about their training and experience with hamsters and judge for yourself from the responses you get.
Then I would look up an exotic pet vet and ring them, ask the same questions. See for yourself what you want to do and have a plan ready before you need it. xx

[cypher]

I think the term exotic vet is probably more common in the US than here in the UK, the only way to know really is to ask your vet, at the same practise I have one vet I usually see who is excellent with hams & I've seen others when he's been away who are fairly clueless!

ETA It might be worth Googling vets in your area if you're unsure about finding one with experience, my vets have a website which lists each vets area of special interest & you may find others do the same.