What is the likelihood of Bernie getting sick, too?

Jenibelle · 03-21-2016, 04:11 AM

My boyfriend and I are both sick... migraine, cough, bit of a runny nose... I'm worried about Bernie getting sick too. He lives in our bedroom with us (and moving him out is not a possibility). We haven't handled him, and I clean my hands before changing his water. But what is the likelihood that he will get sick from being in such close quarters? Also, what signs should we look out for in case he does fall ill? I know hamsters try to hide it.

xbuttons94 · 03-21-2016, 04:43 AM

I'm sorry to hear you are both ill. There are lots of bugs going round at the minute

If you cover up your coughing and sneezing, keep your hands clean and try and reduce contact then he should be okay. My hamsters live in my room and when I am ill my partner looks after them for me. There is a chance he could get poorly but the chances will be reduced if you continue to practice good hygiene

If he does get poorly he won't be as bright and he could be sneezing. I personally haven't seen a hamster in person with a cold before. Someone else will be able to offer some more help than me. I hope you feel better soon!

**Cinnamon Bear** · 03-21-2016, 05:06 AM

I was sick from Thanksgiving till way after Christmas, had 3 different cold & was on multiple anti-biotics. Coughing, sneezing & since it was just me taking care of the hamsters I didn't have any choice but they definitely were exposed to all my germs, the vet too one time, but nobody got sick at all.

I thought I was allergic to hamsters all the sudden so I went to an allergist but he said I wasnt. I wouldn't worry about your hammie getting sick.

Jenibelle · 03-21-2016, 07:39 AM

It's good to know that the chances seem slim!

Pebbles82 · 03-21-2016, 07:46 AM

I know it's worrying if you have flu or a virus. It's best to avoid handling him and wash your hands with antibacterial soap or wipes before putting his food and water each day. I think they are more likely to catch something from contact than airborne. I've had flu a couple of times and Charlie didn't get sick but I didn't handle him or do any cage cleaning during that period and just did the handwashing before putting food and water out.