Mystery Rodent Killer

Question

Ive had 2 hamsters, 3 mice, a rabbit, and a chinchilla all have died the same way and i cant figure out what I'm doing wrong.

Bedding is changed every other day or daily if i have the time. The whole cage washed out with plain water once a week.

Food changed daily

Water changed daily (filtered tap water)

Temp is usually 65-70F

Happens over 2 days. First they will start to sleep more and stop producing much body heat. Then it looks like they start having trouble breathing. After a bit it looks like they have a seizure and they pass away.

One hamster and the chinchilla made it to the vet before they passed but they couldn't say what killed them.

Any help? My dad want to get me another chinchilla but i dont want her if she is just gonna die early like my other rodents.

Answer 1

Not sure what exactly is the cause.

But I would suggest Getting a total new set up.

What you were keeping them in,water bottle or dishes...

Everything.

And purchasing set up and the pets from a different pet place.

There may be a health issues that are being spread at that place due to their conditions before or after they arrive at the pet place.

And you may not be getting or able to get it erased from the pets home before introducing a new pet into it.

Answer 2

Perhaps you need a different food.  I'd suggest talking to your vet.

Answer 3

just a thought cause this happened to me,,,

Do you have those plug in things that get rid of Rat/Spiders etc....

They will kill your hamsters etc,,,,,

Answer 4

First off, I am truly very sorry for your losses and this horrible predicament. I also applaud you for trying to find some answers before getting another pet. From the information you've supplied, it does not seem that you are doing anything wrong, so this is a real head-scratcher..

A couple of questions though:

1. Did you keep the cages in areas of draft, such as near an air-conditioning vent or open window?

- If you are getting your temperature reading from a house thermostat, chances are that the temperature in that spot may not be accurate.. Rodents, especially chinchillas and rabbits, are highly susceptible to temperature changes and a simple cold can be fatal.

2. Do you live in an apartment building with shared ventilation with other apartments?

- Perhaps your neighbors habitually use pest repellent or something of that nature and it leaks into your home.

3. Do you have small children or other large pets in your household?

- Continued harassment from overzealous children, cats, and dogs can quickly stress out prey animals such as rodents, and this can cause many health problems.

4. Do you live at a high altitude (or one that differs greatly from where you got your pets)?

- Maybe your pets small lungs could not handle the added air pressure... (I'm going on a limb here; not sure of the scientific plausibilities of this possible reason..)

I hope this helps; best of luck!