u/island_harriet

Hi everyone, this is Fred our new Russian dwarf hamster. We brought him home yesterday after seeing him in a pet store with a sign saying he's been there too long. I spoke with staff and he had been there a long time, they didn't even know how old he is. We decided to give him a home and the best life we can for however long he may have.

He loves his new big habitat and is eating, drinking and active. He seems much happier than when we first saw him in his tiny tank.

I've noticed he has some hair loss though and his skin looks irritated and red. It's only on his head near his ears and on his face. Is this mites, excessive grooming, stress, old age?

I do see him grooming a lot, but I also see him scratching.

Would love some input. Thanks