sick dwarf hamster):

Question
hi, about a month ago i noticed a bald patch on my little guys lower stomach area. he didnt seem to be bothered by it and since hes a little over 2 years old i figured it was normal. now he has a rather large tumor-like thing where the bald patch was, and i noticed other bald spots forming on him): he las lost most hair on one of his little arms and seems to be scratching at it. his hair around his tail is kind of bare too. he has made that screaming noise on and off about every hour or so for 10ish seconds. i also noticed him making a clicking noise. he eats on his own, and i just re filled his water. he looks so sad though): he was doing this thing where he stood up kind of on his back legs and put his nose in the air with his teeth showing and made a whine like noise. he flips over on his back sometimes and makes a squeeling noise. its sad to watch him, he isnt as active and will just lay down. i wish the little guy be ok): but i dont know what do do for him, i feel so helpless. id bring him to the vet, but id be at earliest tomorrow night. the poor guy looks like hes suffering a little. i wish i could help him, do you have anyyy suggestions?  thank you so much for your help <3 the little guy is the cutest thing in the world i want him to be alright so much

Answer
Hi Amanda

I'm sorry to hear that your hamster isn't doing too well.  Sadly tumors are very common in hamsters of this age and there is little that can be done in these cases other to make sure the hamster isn't in any pain and that these tumors don't rupture or infect.  The constant scratching could just be mites which is easily treated with a drug called Ivermectin.  You can either get this from your vet or buy it in a pet shop (I think it is cheaper from a pet shop).  If you buy it then the brand you want is Beaphar and it is their small animal anti parasitic.  Make sure it is the one for hamsters and contains Ivermectin. It is applied externally to the neck and the dose is repeated a few weeks later.

I would strongly advise that you get him to a vet so that they can check him out - if they feel that this tumor is greatly affecting his quality of life and is causing pain then they may recommend euthanasia, I'm afraid.  If they think the situation can be controlled then they may prescribe some pain relief such as Metacam which is an anti-inflammatory and is safe for hamsters.

I'm sorry I can't be more help but he really needs someone to have a look at him to determine and advise you of the best course of treatment.  I know it is hard for you right now as he sounds very cute and you obviously don't want to lose him, but it is important to determine his quality of life and make the decision based on that.  I do hope you get on OK.

Regards