Hamster in distress?

Question

I have a syrian hamster who seems to be under the weather. The symptoms she has, are cold temperature, very quick and heavy breathing (not wheezing) and always wanting to sleep even at night, I've also noticed she isn't drinking very much and her food intake has also dropped. She is about 21 months old.

Can anybody help.

Ta

Answer 1

Hi

keep watch that these symptoms don't get any worse or it could result the death of your hamster :(.

do you have any books on hamsters? I would look to see if you hammy has any of the following illnesses they can get.

for the time being keep your hamster away from draughty places like windows and doors, heavy breathing is not a very good sign, I would also get her checked out with the vet to see if he/she can do anything.

I hope every thing turns out ok for you and your hammy.

(check for wet tail) to. not drinking or eating etc.

Answer 2

Aww poor thing! Try putting in a wheel because it could be lack of exercise! Or a ball! You could even take it out and play with it too! After playing with it try dribbling some water on its mouth. Once it starts drinkin put it to the water and see if maybe she gets an appetite or it thirsty! Good luck!

Answer 3

yes i have a hamster too and mine acted very simiar when i got him my frinds mom is a vet and she suggeted that i put in a wheel because lack of exersize will make a hampster very lazy making its water and food intake drop greatley or if you dont want to put in a wheel just get it out and play with it like on your floor and make it runn aroud. alos you could get a ball for it so it wont get lost when running around on the ground

Answer 4

Sounds like she's coming to the end of her life.  Hamster lifespan is only about 2 years.

Answer 5

My best suggestion to you would be to take the poor little creature to see a vet! It could well be something simple that could be cleared up with a course of antibiotics.. but your always best seeking professional advice

Answer 6

Age suggests that she could be a bit poorly. Get her to the vet for something to clear it up. Is she next to a draft, do you think she could have a cold? Have you had a cold recently that you might have passed on?