ralph :(

[Ralph the hamster]

I hoped it wouldn't come to this, but Ralph has passed. Nothing looked wrong physically - he was most likely ill with something when we got him and was at least able to rest comfortably in a lovely home.

We haven't told our 9 year old yet - I found out right before bedtime (bad timing) and only saw him on his way to school today (worse). Our daughter (6) fought cancer for three years and is doing amazing now, but not all the other children and families we met along the way were so lucky - so the kids are more aware than average of the unfairness of death and illness and how sometimes it's just a random occurrence. Our son hadn't really had the chance to bond with Ralph since he was never out.

If he wants to get a new hammy, we obviously can't reuse substrate or anything Ralph chewed - do we also need to get a new wheel, etc.? Or can we deep freeze anything wooden and clean everything else with a hammy-safe product?

Sorry for the bummer news. It's hard not to think I did something wrong.

 

[elusive]

I’m so sorry to hear this, it must have been a shock & it’s always such a sad & difficult time.
I think it’s only natural to think we could have done something or we missed something when we lose them suddenly & unexpectedly but I’m sure that’s not the case. You gave him a lovely home & care.

It’s fine to reuse things, as you said just wash what you can & freeze any wood or other natural items.

 

[Maz]

I am so very very sorry. And it makes sense now - he was not really doing much was he? Please don't think it's anything you have done or not done - that is a normal grief reaction but sadly it seems he was probably born with some genetic issue and had an inherent weakness. This also happened to clacombe recently. It is really heartbreaking when they are young and particularly when you have children. It can happen at any time - it may be breeding, it may be genetic. Some hamsters are just born with a weak heart. At least it seemed quick and he wouldn't have known much about it.

I hope the above information helps for the children.

I do think it's a good idea to get another hamster - maybe one that looks different - a different colour - and seems active and bright eyed and curious which is a good sign of health. I sometimes think adopted hamsters are a good bet. If they've survived early life and being rescued and are healthy then they must be quite hardy - also adoption places tend to check them out thoroughly health wise.

In terms of the cage and bedding. Yes it's better not to reuse the bedding. The cage can be cleaned out with a pet safe disinfectant spray - the wood should be fine with that (not bleach). Any ceramic items can just be washing with soapy water. Rough wood items like bark wood can be baked in the oven to sterilise them but I would chuck any bendy stick bridges. Smooth wood items are easier. And yes putting them in the freezer is an option and that also helps remove any scent.

 

[Maz]

I'll just add - it seems so unfair on you all, especially with the other medical history you mention. I do hope though you get a lively fun hamster to make you all laugh - whizzy babies can be so much fun and bring a lot of joy. Maybe come on here and ask about setting up the cage differently first, to have the best chance of early interaction . I sometimes find keeping it simple at first helps and then adding certain things later when they're more tame or settled in fully.

 

[Member ID2]

I am so sorry to hear this sad news but sadly it happens for hamsters to die young due to underlying health issues no one could have been aware of.

We always think that we missed something or could have done something to prevent an early death because we care and wanted the best for our little furry friends. You are not alone in thinking that. I do it every time i lose a hamster.

Ralph is at peace now and you have the strength to guide your children through this.

I only dispose of items i can't clean but reuse anything washable and disinfectable. An alternative to freezing is baking at 100C for an hour.

 

[RainbowBrite]

I am so very sorry to hear that Ralph has passed away. What a terrible shock for you all. As the others have said, this is not down to you in any way. You gave Ralph an amazing home and you did everything possible for him.

I am thinking of you and your children.

 

[Ralph the hamster]

Thanks everyone. It's been pretty sad for sure. I'm hoping he wants to try again right away but only he knows what he's ready for.

 

[Maz]

I know what you mean but it can actually help with the grieving process so it doesn't seem so final. After our first Syrian died the whole family was very flat for quite some time. We were offered another hamster two months later and it wasn't till we picked him up, it was clear how miserable we had all been because on the journey home we were all laughing and happy again and choosing a name. He was bright as a button and just a baby.

 

[Frida]

I'm so sorry to hear Ralph has passed away. Thinking of you all and sending hugs

 

[Maz]

I know what you mean but it can actually help with the grieving process so it doesn't seem so final. After our first Syrian died the whole family was very flat for quite some time. We were offered another hamster two months later and it wasn't till we picked him up, it was clear how miserable we had all been because on the journey home we were all laughing and happy again and choosing a name. He was bright as a button and just a baby.

What I mean is, it's an opportunity to see their whole lifespan from baby hood, teens, middle age and elderly (when they can be quite laid back).

 

[Jain]

I'm sorry for your loss of Ralph getting another hammy isn't replacing him it's filling the gap of grief in your heart and giving love to another does help especially with children

 

[Zara]

I’m so sorry to hear Ralph has passed away, such a sad time for you all, you gave him a lovely home. Rest in peace at the rainbow bridge dear Ralph