Sick Female Hamster

[Mich34elle]

I have an 8 month old female syrian hamster, Buttercup. 4 weeks ago she gave birth to 9 lovely babies. A week back I noticed a red bump beside one of her right nipples - the vet gave her baytril. The babies have since been weened and the infection cleared. A few days later I noticed when I was petting her that she had fluid under her skin on the back on her left side. Not sure why the baytril did not clear this up. She has not been willing to eat, been giving her critical care and water by syringe to keep her hydrated. She wants to sleep. Took her to the vet today - and the fluid burst on her back and now there is a bluish bruise underneath. The fluid was cloudy and had a smell. Vet is not sure what the underlying cause is and she will have an ultrasound tomorrow. Buttercup is now taking carafate and an herb yunan biaoyo. Has anyone had a similar experience and maybe a diagnosis from a vet? Many thanks!!

[souffle]

It does sound like she has an abscess which has burst. Not all bacteria will respond to Baytril so it may be worth trying a different one such as Septrin. Raising pups is hard on them and she does sound to have had mastitis which is very painful for them. She could now have the infection in her bloodstream due to her condition and the outlook may not be the best in this situation. Keep up with the intense nursing and I would say she needs seen again. Has the lump filled up again? It needs kept open and draining to allow the pus to clear then she will heal up hopefully. You need to try and get her eating and if she is this ill I would try anything to get her eating - babyfood, porridge, yogurt, egg, soup may be taken.
I hope she rallies round for you

[Mich34elle]

Thank you! Hopefully will have more information after todays visit to the vet.