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Cataracts is a relatively frequent eye disease in hamsters.
Today, cataracts can be operated by removing the cornea and replacing it with a transparent glass less just as in humans.
One should bear in mind that the hamster’s hearing and smell will compensate for the loss of eyesight so this sense is not crucial for the animals survival and well being in captivity. Also, the hamster is capable of finding its way around in total darkness with it’s whiskers. Thus, before operating one should consider if the animals should be exposed to the stress and possible pain that might come about following the operation.
We do not know exactly what creates cataracts, but one assumes that it’s related to ultraviolet rays as well as nutritional factors.
A good nutrition is needed for any healthy and happy hamster.
Careful with too much carbohydrates as rodents do lack an efficient pancreas and should therefore acquire most of their energy requirement through the meat they eat. They might created ketenes in their blood, which in turn can provoke the creation of cataracts.
Its wise to stay away from too much homemade foods since the animals seem to have relatively specific needs. Thus, I would recommend you to give your animals as much canned food as possible.
There are excellent dry foods to complement the canned food, but make sure that sufficient water is given the animal when feeding dry foods.
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