Possible Hamster Stroke?

Question
Hi,

I hope you can help. My son owns a Syrian hamster, about 2 years old. We have never had any health problems with it but tonight when my son went to feed and change its water he found the hamster collapsed on its side in its cage. at first i assumed it had passed away but when I watched it for a minute or two I noticed it occasionally move as if it was breathing gently. Also occasionally it seems to take a deep breath. It's legs have moved  a couple of times but only very slowly. His eyes are partially open. Other than the movements I've mentioned he has shown no other signs of life. Could this be a stroke? The symptoms I have read about on this site related to strokes don't sound as severe as what has happened to our hamster. Any advice greatly appreciated.

Andy

Answer
Hi Andy

I'm really sorry to hear about your hamster but he did sound very ill.  It is very hard seeing a hamster like this, but at 2 years of age he had a pretty good life, and as you said, at least he isn't suffering.  It sounds as though this was all pretty sudden so I doubt that he felt any pain.  I hope that your son is OK as it is difficult losing a pet, but perhaps when you are ready you will consider getting another one as they make such fantastic pets.

Regards
Sheila

Hi Andy

I'm sorry to hear about your hamster.  Unfortunately 2 is pretty old for a hamster and around this time all sorts of health issues can occur.  In many ways, what is happening sounds as though he is dying.  It could be a stroke or some sort of seizure that has caused the collapse.  Alternatively, hamsters of this age are very prone to tumors and whilst they often go unnoticed for long time, when they are large and putting pressure on organs or the spine suddenly the hamster can appear to deteriorate rapidly and collapse.  They can also suffer from lung and heart problems.

If he is still like this now, I would strongly advise that you get him to a vet - they will be able to advise you on the best option, although I'm afraid that they may well suggest euthansia as they will assess the quality of life, which at the moment is clearly poor.

I'm sorry to give you this answer as it is hard to let go of a pet, especially when it belongs to a child but it is kinder to take action rather than let the hamster suffer.

I do hope you get on OK.

Regards