Can Hamsters Explode [The Real Answer]

There’s a lot of misinformation on the internet about hamsters exploding. Today we are going to set the record straight. Hamsters do not explode but can suffer from a serious condition known as bloat. Bloat is caused by overfeeding, constipation, or by feeding your hamster gassy foods which contain sugars such as fructose. Vegetables like Asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cabbage are also known to be gassy foods so should be avoided if your hamster seems bloated.

Hypothetically with enough gas build-up, and no way of releasing it a hamster could “explode” although the chances of it happening are next to none. If you look hard enough you might find stories of people feeding their hamsters hot soup and other bizarre foods (That you shouldn’t feed to your hamster) which create an extreme gas buildup that leads to their hamster bloating and dying via the symptoms it can cause.

Why Do People Think Hamsters Can Explode?

There is a lot of bizarre information on the internet regarding hamsters exploding. The only one that bares any truth is when it comes to tumors. If your hamster has a tumor that is exposed to a significant degree of pressure this could in theory “explode” the tumor which would most likely be fatal. I would suggest that the tumor actually “bursts” rather than explodes. Hamsters are delicate animals and are not designed in any way to take significant damage.

Also, a lot of people seem to want to talk about treating hamsters in a cruel way exposing them to extreme pressure, radiation, or heat. Of course, if you are going to abuse these animals in these disgusting ways they might “explode”.

What Is Bloat in Hamsters?

Bloat in hamsters is an extreme condition usually caused by severe overfeeding which can lead to a number of very serious health issues. Bloat arrises usually if a hamster is constipated and overfed at the same time. If left untreated it can be fatal due to organ failure or other complications.

Symptoms of Bloat in Hamsters

The clearest and most obvious symptom of bloat in hamsters is a large protruding stomach. Other symptoms usually include lethargy and loss of appetite. Lesser common symptoms include slow breathing and pale gums. If you start to see these issues in your hamster and they don’t seem to be improving we suggest that you seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Bloat in Hamsters

The best way to prevent bloat in hamsters is to educate yourself on what a healthy diet for a hamster should consist of. Avoid overfeeding your hamster and don’t feed them human food as treats as these can usually cause excessive gas build up in your hamster’s stomach. Remember to keep an eye on your hamster and monitor its weight and behavior regularly. That way you can start to make changes if you notice unhealthy changes.

Treatments for a Hamster With Bloat

If your hamster is suffering from bloating it’s usually wise to seek veterinary care sooner rather than later for treatment. Your vet will be able to advise dietary changes and prescribe medication to ease the swelling and inflammation and discomfort associated with the condition. In some extremely severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove excess fluid buildup in the abdomen.

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Conclusion

Your hamster “exploding” is not a real thing unless you have in some way abused your pet by giving exposing them to extreme pressure and giving them a substance that would create extreme gas buildup. Be careful of the advice you follow online and if you are ever unsure be sure to speak to a qualified veterinarian.