The Vet Visit: How to Get the Most Out of It!

Sometimes we hamster owners are faced with the situation of bringing our loved one to the veterinarian.  The veterinarian will provide you important guidance on how to treat your hamster's ailment.  But what can you do to ensure you will get the most out of this visit?  Listed below are useful tips and questions  that I suggest answering on a sheet of paper, which can be presented to your veterinarian.  It is easy to forget details in a stressful situation!  The more information you present to your veterinarian, the more appropriate steps will be taken to treat your hamster effectively.

1. To begin with, research your area for veterinarians that will treat hamsters and have experience with them.  Use multiple resources such as the yellow pages, Pets 911, breeders, pet stores, rescue shelters, and friends to aid you in finding one.  It's best to find a veterinarian before you purchase a hamster.  Finding a veterinarian that is willing to treat and has experience with rodents ensures better care.  It is advised to have a couple to choose from, if possible, in case one is unavailable (booked) or if you need a second opinion.
2. How old is your hamster?  Where did you purchase your hamster?  How long have you owned your hamster?
3. Do you own any other animals?  Are there other hamsters housed with him?  Any recently purchased pets? (ex: dog)  Do these pets have similar symptoms?
4. What are the symptoms? This can include changes in behavior, looks, smell, etc. (Mention all, no matter how insignificant they seem)
5. When did each symptom first start?  (It's helpful to provide a sequence of events)
6. How long have you observed each symptom?
7. Is your hamster eating or drinking on its own?  If so, when did he last eat/drink?  Too much or too little?  It helps to have approximate measurements if possible.
8. What is your hamster's diet?  Any major changes recently?
9. How are your hamster's stools?  Urine?
10. What bedding do you use?
11. Has there been any changes in the hamster's environment?  (i.e. new location, new bedding, etc.)
12. Is there a possibility that your hamster has been exposed to chemicals?  (Ex: spraying for bugs)
13. If your hamster is female, is she pregnant?  Any past litters?
14. Any current or past health problems?  Any current or past medications?
15. What do you suspect is the problem?  A guess is okay!  Try surfing Pet Website for clues.
16. Have you taken any steps to help treat the problem?  If so, did they help?
17. Perform a thorough At-Home Health Check-up, and take down additional notes.
18. Feel free to take notes during the vet visit.  Listen carefully and do not hesitate to ask questions.
19. Follow treatment instructions carefully.  Finish all medications.  Follow-up if necessary.
20. And of course, post on Hamsters Galore! message boards for support and additional advice. 

 

Written by: Lari