Elderly Hammie

[Rosebee12312]

Hi everyone!

I have a hammie that’s at least 18 months old.
He’s declined a lot in the last couple of months.
We took him to the vet a week ago and she said there are no noticeable tumors or anything. He MIGHT have liver/kidney issues but that she would only be able to tell with bloodwork which would be too stressful for him.

He’s on on metacam and gabapentin for pain & BeneBac for his tummy.

I guess my question is … how do you know when it’s time?

Pic attached of when he was younger & chubby & super energetic and soooo cute

 

[Socks' Mum]

It's sad when your hammy gets to old age, even though you have had a life together to celebrate. Their lives are far too short. With my hamster, Socks, I based the decision on whether he was eating. Eventually I was feeding him and giving him water with a syringe, which he was taking, but not very much. All he wanted to do was sleep and he was not touching any veggies or seeds from his bowls. He was weak and shaky when he got up to use his hamster loo. I judged that he had very little quality of life. He had changed shape and his abdomen seemed large for some reason. The end was very near. I think it is very much an individual decision as you know your hamster best. Caring for them at the end of their life is very meaningful and can bring you closer and they are so grateful for your care. I hope things work out OK for you and your little hammy