Also known as: Wet tail
Wet tail is a severe, often fatal diarrhoeal disease of young hamsters, especially recently weaned Syrian hamsters. It is associated with the bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis causing proliferative ileitis. Affected hamsters develop profuse watery diarrhoea, dehydration and rapid deterioration.
Wet tail is the common name for proliferative ileitis, a serious bacterial enteric disease of young hamsters. It is one of the most important and feared illnesses of pet hamsters.
The intracellular bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis is strongly implicated, often acting together with stress from weaning, transport, overcrowding, dietary change and poor hygiene.
Signs include profuse watery diarrhoea, a soiled wet tail and hindquarters, hunched posture, lethargy, loss of appetite, dehydration and rapid weight loss. Death can occur within one to two days.
Diagnosis is usually based on the typical signs in a young hamster; faecal testing and, in fatal cases, post-mortem examination support the diagnosis.
Treatment includes fluids to correct dehydration, antibiotics, anti-diarrhoeal and supportive care, but the prognosis is guarded even with prompt care.
Reduce stress around weaning and rehoming, maintain scrupulous hygiene, avoid overcrowding and quarantine new animals.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
