What does it mean if my female hamster has red eyes?
Certain types of syrian hamsters can have red eyes due to a change in genetic pattern. The following information has been taken from a syrian hamster genotyping article – “Various eye color shades of red, from bright pink to garnet, are produced by specific genotypes. The Dark Eared White and Cinnamon Syrian Hamster genotypes have red eyes.A Ruby Eyed hamster has red eyes and a diluted coat color. (This gene is rare now and renders males sterile by 10 weeks of age.) The Dominant Spot gene can occasionally turn one or both eyes ruby or red when a white area surrounds the eye. The Anophthalmic White and Extreme Dilute genes can impart a red glow to the eyes when seen in a strong light.” Your hamster could be any one of the above genetic subtypes, thereby the changing red colour in the eyes. To be on the safer side, take her to a vet to rule out any eye related diseases that might be causing the color change too.
