Mites might be sign of decline
Q
My daughter’s two-year-old golden hamster’s coat has become scaly and sparse, and the vet found mites. She gave the hamster treatment but told me to prepare for the worst as mite diseases usually mean a severely declining immune system. What do you think?
A
The average longevity for a Syrian (golden) hamster is between two to two-and-a-half years.
The mite your vet found is Demodex and the disease it causes is demodicosis. There are two species of this mite inhabiting hamster skin, a feature it shares with many animals, including dogs, cats and humans. One species inhabits the hair follicles and the other the outermost layers of skin.
Neither causes problems unless there is a weakening of the immune system. This can be associated with debilitating disease or, as is likely with your daughter’s hamster, it can be a part of the ageing process and a weakening immune system.
Without treatment, demodicosis will result in much of the coat being lost with additional secondary infection. As the coat is lost the flank scent glands become visible, often a reason hamster owners visit the vet as they mistake these glands for melanoma.
There are various treatments that can temporarily improve matters, but as the immune system becomes weaker there is often a relapse and no further response to treatment.
I have always found that children, if they are forewarned, are surprisingly accepting and adult when the time comes. I agree with your vet’s advice.
Q
My six-year-old female domestic cat has recently had spasms of coughing. I originally thought she was trying to bring up hairballs but I am wondering if it could be asthma. If so, what can be done about it?
A
Asthma is thought to occur in between one to five per cent of cats. It is caused by an allergic reaction in the bronchioles of the lungs to a variety of allergens such as pollens and house dust mites. If untreated, secondary infection is likely, resulting in chronic bronchitis.
It can begin at any age, but is typically seen in middle age (six to nine years.)
A cough is a major sign, which may be spasmodic at first. Affected cats often adopt a squatting position with the neck extended with coughing, which is often confused with attempting to bring up a fur ball.
Observant owners may see more rapid breathing (anything over 40 breaths per minute).
In more serious cases it may be possible to hear wheezing. This can progress to a life-threatening situation, with collapse, mouth breathing and blue tinged gums and tongue, requiring emergency care.
Asthma is diagnosed by ruling out bacterial infections, pneumonia, heart disease and lung parasitic infections. Endoscopy, airway washes and chest radiography are used for confirmation.
Initially, corticosteroids are used, then steroid and bronchodilator drugs can be given by inhalation, using specially adapted cat spacers.
Most cats tolerate this well with training.
Triggers factors such as smoke, perfumes and dust are best avoided.