very cold and squeaking

Question
Hi,  I have had my black bear hamster for a year and about 9 months.  In the past couple days I have found her in the corner of her cage and she was significantly colder than the room she's in.  Each time I warmed her up and she seemed to be ok after that.  Today, however, when I tried to pick her up she started squeaking.  I'm not sure what to do for her.  Do you have any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Rebecca

I'm sorry to hear about your hamster - she sounds very sick.  It is very difficult to know what is wrong with her as sadly hamsters are  prone to a number of illnesses.  

At around the age of 2 hamsters are very prone to getting tumors and it could well be that this is the cause for her discomfort.  Abdominal tumors are hard to detect but the usual symptoms are that the hamster drinks a lot more than usual, their body shape can change and they become a lot more lethargic, not wanting to leave their nest.  Sometimes they are unable to walk properly as the tumor puts pressure on their organs and spine. Their body temperature can go down due to the pain and lack of movement.

Is she still eating OK?  Does she want to move around at all?  Is there any sign of blood/pus coming from her rear end?  Do you have a local vet that you could take her to?  I think this is the best option as they will be able to examine her and see if her condition is treatable.  Sadly, with internal tumors there is nothing really that can be done - I've heard of some vets who will prescribe pain relief, but often euthanasia is the end result.

I'm sorry I can't be more help to you - but I hope you get on OK at the vet.

Regards