Hamster problem

Question
QUESTION: Hi i have a teddy bear hamster hes a panda bear i noticed that my hamsters been kinda wobbling when it walks and its eye has been glued shut looks like it has lots of boogers too. Also i noticed that when i pick it up its back legs are shaking and when touch the stomach part of it it seems like its very big and making it look very fat and i think its kinda expanded. One more thing my hamsters bottom part looks wet im not sure but maybe it has wet tail.

can u please tell me whats wrong with my hamster im very upset about all this

ANSWER: Hi Yvonne

How old is your hamster?  The symptoms you describe make me think your hamster is quite old - around 2, maybe??

The symptoms you describe sound very much like a tumor of some kind.  Has he been drinking a lot?  Hamsters are very prone to these, especially when they are about 2.  Their general body condition tends to get poor and they often lose weight, but their lower half gets bigger.  As the tumor grows it puts pressure on the hamsters' organs or spine and this can make it difficult for them to walk.  In cases like this they can be in a lot of pain, unfortunately.  The wetness that you have found could be that he is soiling himself or that there is some sort of discharge.  Sometimes if there is an abdominal tumor, the hamster can bleed.

Hamsters often get 'sticky eyes' and it is important they open their eyes daily otherwise pus can build up behind them.  If you get a damp cloth and gently wipe the area around his eyes to see if he can open them.  Do not force them.  Whilst sticky eyes often doesn't mean anything is wrong, it can also be an indication of a very sick hamster.

I would strongly advise that you get him to a vet as quickly as possible so that they can examine him and discuss his options.

I do hope you get on OK.

Regards



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi there

thank you for sending a answer back but now I think my hamster is getting worse. He still has a swollen stomach just behind the legs and now where he poops the poo gets stuck and its dark brown and kinda red. Also I started to notice my hamster started to walk funny his right leg is swollen and he wobbling a lot.

I know hes getting old but is there a way I can make it a bit easier for him before he goes.

Thank you
Yvonne

Answer
Hi Yvonne

I'm sorry to hear your hamster is getting worse.  There is little you can do to help him, I'm afraid and by now he is probably in a lot of pain/discomfort.  I suggest you make sure his food/water is close by so that he doesn't have to leave his nest.  If he is covered in poop, then this is because he is too weak, or in pain to walk.  

Are you able to take him to a vet urgently?  If so, I think they would probably suggest euthanasia at this time so that your hamster doesn't suffer at all.  

I hope you get on OK.

Regards