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The Hamographer

So here I am "The Hamographer" aka Dave or Rads from another site, so to business.
George our Long Haired Syrian is sadly nearing the end of his life, he is currently on a diuretic as the vet seems to think he has fluid around his heart and poss on his lungs, this is after a chest infection a month a go. His breathing goes from near normal to as though he had TB or was a toddler that was full of snot.
George has a significant weight loss does very little Hamstering now though does insist on building a Hamster pyramid of wood shavings under his Amazon box he doesn't like anything else as a house other than a cardboard box..!
He now tends to rest/sleep half in his bed half out, he is still on 8 hourly meds and at times he seems to be ready to pass when he is on my lap but warms up and that gives him an added boost. I haven't the heart to euthanize him tbh as he still keeps trying, eating drinking etc.
George is our 5th Syrian and I'm not sure if we would have another at the moment, every one has had such different characters from Escapologist, to Diva to Stroppy Teen to Speedy made thing..
 
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Hello and welcome to the forum. I am so sorry to hear this. I can tell how much you love George. I hope you still have plenty of time together.
 
Hi there Rads. Welcome to this forum which is a lovely place.
I have not had a hamster since I lost Maestro a couple of years ago and yet I have found something to say occasionally!
George sounds as though he still wants more time with you and happy enough on your lap. You are experienced enough to know when that changes. A lovely old boy George is now.
 
Hello Rads and welcome to the forum!

Yes, you'll know when George is ready to depart but until then, enjoy every day you have left together.
As long as his breathing is manageable with the medication he may be around for a while yet.
That's Master Henry in my avatar. Was it Poppy by any chance who was the Diva?
 
Hello! Dear George is so lucky to have you to care for him. He must be very bonded with you. I'm sure he'd tell you if he was wanting to go. He is getting great care in his old age.

I know what you mean after so many have gone before. Have you thought about getting a Robo though? I love having a Robo - but need a Syrian as well :)
 
With the weight loss. You could help him keep his weight on maybe if he will lick up ground nuts or hemp seeds. Most older hamsters like doing that. Especially if their teeth are dodgy. You can either do it yourself or buy the Linwoods ones and just put a tiny bit out each day on a separate dish. The nuts are high calorie (but also healthy fats) and the hemp seeds are high calorie and contain all the vitamins and minerals needed. Our hamsters have always enjoyed them.

It does sound like he has some old age thing going on - maybe heart, but also sounds like he is not wanting to give up yet.

These are actually sold for humans to put on their breakfast!


 
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