Introduction: Keeping your hamster healthy is very important. Because of their size, hamsters have very delicate systems that can be harmed easily by many different factors. You must keep a watchful eye on your hamster; they are very good at hiding their weaknesses. Hamsters also have very fast metabolism which causes tumors and illnessess to grow, spread, and harm them very quickly. A hamster's resting heart rate is 350-500 BPM (Beats per minute), depending on species.

 

Many people say ok, well I'll do everything I can to keep my hamster healty, but how do I know if it's actually healthy? There are certain things to look for in a healthy hamster: 

• Shiny, black eyes

• Dry, pink nose

• Yellow teeth (not too long)

• Clean ears

• Well trimmed nails

• Dry, clean bum

• Normal diet (eating and drinking as usual)

• High activity level- running on wheel, chewing on toys, etc.

• Legs and paws straight (not broken)

• Sleek body- as in no tumors or injuries

 

So if you ever find yourself wondering if your hamster is healthy, just make a checklist of everything to look for in a healthy hamster, or if you are still concerned call a vet.