Hamster Sneezing

[aimsdavies]

Hiya!
I’m in the middle of cleaning my hamster’s cage out for the first time. For when we first got her we’ve used Kaytee bedding and she hasn’t shown any problems.
I went to the pet shop and bought Carefresh Ultra as I’ve heard it does good job in absorbing scent and doesn’t go flat whenever your hamster roams about like Kaytee. I’ve used Carefresh at the bottom of the cage to soak up anything, then used a mixture of old and new Kaytee on the top to hold her tunnels.
I hadn’t noticed any problems until Puff started making a noise of what I can only describe as a mixture of sneezing and a small squeak. It only seems to happen when she’s looking out of her cage and sniffing about the plastic bags by the side of he cage. I am worried as I know dust is bad for hamster and can lead to severe health problems. I can’t hear her sneezing at the moment. She’s in her little nest. I have sneezed s few times as I do feel there’s some dust in the air.
With a quick Google search, I found that some hamsters just need to become accustomed to the new bedding and to give them a few days. If it persists and shows more signs (e.g. runny nose and eyes, lethargy, lack of drinking and eating...) then I should take her to the vet.
I was wondering wheather raspitory problems lead to death, or whether you can treat it at home?
Thank you!

[Drago]

When out of their cages, hamsters will sometimes make loud “sneezing” noises. These are perfectly normal. If she’s sneezing in her cage, it’s likely due to the bedding change. Carefresh is also well known for being a bit... well.. dusty! I don’t believe it’s anything you should worry yourself over. You have the right idea completely- watch for runny nose, lethargy, etc Best wishes!

[cypher]

Some hamsters don't do so well with Carefresh so it could be that, if it doesn't improve it might be worth going back to the substrate you were using before.