Hamster balls black?

[Didi]

My short-haired Syrian hamster is almost a year old now. We got him about 3 months ago. Recently, we noticed the color of one of his balls become darker the last few weeks. The last couple days though, one of his balls started to swell up and I’m starting to get a bit worried now. He’s also doesn’t seem to be too active recently. I’ve looked online many times but haven’t found a definite answer. I’ve read answers that said it’s normal since it’s the pigmentation. However, the spot looks bigger than freckles. I’ve uploaded the pictures to a folder at this link

Thanks in advance

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1B1...wszziPsqDnj1tS

[souffle]

That doesn't look normal pigmentation especially if you have seen swelling and a change in behavior. You need to have him checked out by a vet. It could be a small injury that has become infected, a cyst or tumour or a blockage somewhere. I hope you can have him see soon and he can be treated.

[alpacassei]

I agree, he needs to see a vet asap. I hope he makes a quick recovery

[Didi]

Thanks for the replies guys.
I took my hamster Chubbi to the vet today. The doctor said it was a skin abscess and that it should heal within the week with antibiotics.