The Aspergillis Fungus grows on the bedding in the
area of a hamster's tank/cage where the hamster
urinates. Once it starts to develop it will appear white
and in time turn black. At this stage the fungus will
send off airborne spores into the hamster's
enviornment that can damage the hamster's health and
once symptoms are noticed the hamster must be seen
by a vet immediately because there is a high risk of
death from breathing in the spores of this deadly
fungus. Symptoms are lethargy, breathing
problems/wheezing,blood in the urine,inflamed skin,and
chronic diarrhea. If you see any of these symptoms
especially after you spotted the fungus in the tank/cage
chances are high that it's the Aspergillis Fungus that is
causing the health problems. A hamster who has
already been diagnosed as being diabetic or having a
bladder infection is at a higher risk when exposed to
this fungus. A vet will then treat the affected hamster
with antibiotics and anti-fungal medication. It should
also be noted that the use of corn cob bedding appears
to promote the growth of this fungus faster than other
beddings. The Aspergillis Fungus also grows on
vegetables and fruits that are left to rot in the
tank/cage. The key to eliminating this fungus is to not
allow it to grow at all and this can be done by removing
the bedding where your hamster urinates every day
and making sure that once a week the tank/cage is
throughly cleaned and disinfected and you can also use
a disinfectant that contains an anti-fungicide as an
added precaution. And always remove any uneaten
vegetables or fruits from the tank/cage before it rots
and allows the fungus to grow on it. A person who
owns a hamster don't have to live in fear of the
Apergillus Fungus harming their hamster. As long as
the tank/cage is kept completely clean any breeding
ground for this potentially deadly fungus will be totally
eliminated.
- Alex A.
Article used with permission from Alex A.
Rebels Rodent Retreat |
