buldging eyes

[ashleanne]

What is this a sign off? Any particular illness or disease? thanks

[SnuggleHam]

These were found in the hamster central Ailments article... Thank Emma for all this wonderful information. http://www.hamstercentral.com/user.p...ewArticle&a=30

Glaucoma
This is an increase in the pressure inside the eye and is rare, but most frequently reported in Campbell’s and Winter Whites. It presents as enlarged, bulging eyes. Lubricating eye drops can be used to prevent the eyes drying out, and surgical removal of the affected eye(s) can be considered in some cases. Hamsters with glaucoma can live a relatively unaffected life if given good support from their owner, but should not be bred from as it is thought to be an inherited condition.

Eye prolapse
Prolapse or rupture of the eye can be caused by injury from trauma or fighting, or glaucoma. The eye will usually heal by itself without surgical intervention. Antibiotics should be given for 5-7 days to prevent complications.

Of course the hamster should be taken to a small animal specialist.

[ashleanne]

Thanks, but what if it's both eyes and the eyes aren't sore, and it's not a Campbells dwarf? We don't have a specialist in rodents in the country, the vet will just say I'm imagining it - maybe I am, I don't know, I did hit my head today

[SnuggleHam]

Unfortunately I don't know enough about this kind of hamster ailment to suggest anything else. It says Glaucoma is "most frequently" reported in Campbell’s and Winter Whites, but that doesn't rule out other kinds of hamsters.

I think this hamster should be taken to a vet. Please don't use excuses to deter you from the visit. If you are worried the vet wont be much help bring along some of this information so they have something to go on. I'm sure your vet will do what they can, they become vets to help animals.

Hopefully someone with more knowledge will post soon.

[babyboos]

Don't underestimate your vets they are very good in Ireland. Bulging eyes are not always necessarily sore either but can become that way as the pressure continues to build up. You have to remember that hamsters in the wild are prey creatures and are very good at hiding pain, if we all waited until our little ones looked sick then often this would be too late. A vet can shine a light on the back of the eye area to see what is going on.

[souffle]

As the owner of an animal I am sure the vet would not doubt that you had noticed a change in appearance or behaviour in your own animal. I would take it along for a check and if nothing is found then your mind will be at rest.

[ashleanne]

Took her to vets, he has no idea whats wrong with her He said he doesnt know what treatment he could give but says theres no point giving any unless she has other symptoms. Hmmm she was on baytril last week and not long after I noticed this problem, it can cause eye problems and blindness in dogs and cats, esp if the right dose isnt given. I wonder if that would have anything to do with it