My dwarf hamster has something stuck in his pouch (mouth_...?

Question

My dwarf hamster has food stuck in his mouth... I know he has a pouch to store food, and that it would be natural for him to do thsi, but it really is stuck! He has been acting strange lately... sleeping on the wheel, not eating his FAVORITE treat, squeaking... But yesterday, I gave him a SAND bath, like i do every week, and he was back to normal... But today i realized he has something stuck in his pouch... He was on the top floor of his cage, and he looked like he was gagging... Trying to get the food out of his mouth... He tried, then gave up, and went back to sleep... He's acting normal, except he has food stuck in his mouth... How do i get it out? His cheeks have been looking big lately... Thank you!

Answer 1

Aww well i don't know what to do at that point you should probably take him to the vet.

Hope he gets well soon! = p

Answer 2

Well if it has been going on for a while now you may need to take him to the vet or something. It could just be a piece of food lodged in his mouth. They may tell you there is nothing they can do. There is a possibility it may just dissolve and/or break down?

Answer 3

This condition is medically called as "impacted pouches". Take him immediately to a vet for treatment.

A hamster uses its cheek pouches to carry food and bedding material. Occasionally an item may become stuck to the lining of the pouch. This usually occurs with fluffy bedding or sticky foods such as chocolate or toffee (these items should therefore be avoided). Sharp items of food may also pierce the lining of the pouch and become stuck. The hamster is then unable to remove the item from its cheek pouch and this can lead to an infection or abscess.

If a hamster appears to be unable to empty its cheek pouches or any lumps remain continually in the pouch veterinary treatment should be sought. Often syringing the cheek pouch with lukewarm water will remove the offending item, or it may be necessary for the vet to physically turn the cheek pouch inside-out to remove the item. Antibiotic treatment may be needed if the cheek pouch has become infected.

Once treated, full recovery is usually made within a few days.

Answer 4

the hamster should be able to get it out itself i wouldnt worry but if it not out by monday then take him to a vet or to a pet shop they may no it could jut be normal

Answer 5

Oh , thats not good: ( but it will probably turn soft and go away,  if it doesn't  in a few days take it to the vet