Hamsters are unusual in the caged p

Hamsters are unusual in the caged pet group in that they can catch colds from people. This means that the cold takes pretty much the same course as it does with a person, but obviously in a tiny little creature like a hamster it can quickly become rather serious. The signs and symptoms are also much the same as a human cold; feeling off colour and possibly a bit grumpy (they may bite a bit more often than usual or be reluctant to come out of their bedding) and then going on to show a runny nose, a wheezy chest and sneezing. Not all of these symptoms are due to a cold – the hamster may be allergic to its bedding or something in the room, so it is always wise to consult a vet after a day or two if there is no improvement, especially as the cold may easily turn to pneumonia.