Abnormal behavior

Question
I've had my Syrian hamster for 2 years now and up until recently he has been fine. We have a good relationship and he has always loved to play outside of his cage with me. But I also understand that he's older now and there are a lot of things to be expected of an aged hamster, like he has been sleeping in more, hasn't been exercising much, and doesn't enjoy his time out of the cage.

I have noticed that for the last week or so he barely moves around at all, and he seems more tired than usual. His movements and breathing have become labored and it takes him a very long time to move from one side of the cage to another. He hasn't been eating or drinking as much either.

Just today I tried to take him out for a run around the house and he almost bit me twice, which has never happened before. And he also looked like he was in some pain, so I returned him to his cage and he went back to his spot and slept.

I also noticed that there is less bowel movement than usual and less feces laying around in his cage. He hasn't been grooming himself either. His stomach is also a little swollen, but his body is otherwise healthy, that I know of. He isn't injured or have any infections. His urine looks clean and his eyes are clear of any discharge.

There hasn't been a drastic change in our environment (other than the drop in the weather outside) and I have not altered anything in our usual routine, which is why I don't understand what is happening.

Please help. I really want to know what could be the problem.

Answer
Hi Mina

Sorry your hamster isn't too good at the moment.

2 years is old for a hamster.  Most live for around 18 months - 2 1/2 years, therefore he is pretty old right now.  The symptoms you describe are common with an old hamster - however, the biting also makes me think it is because he's in pain.

Hamsters are very prone to getting tumors, especially at this age and it could be that he has one inside his abdomen which is causing him some pain, and affecting his walking.  If he were my hamster I would be inclined to get him checked out by a vet right now - and if they can feel a tumor in his abdomen I would probably have him put to sleep.  However, your vet might be able to give you pain killers for him or some other medication that, whilst won't save his life, will make his remaining days more comfortable for him.

Hamsters can also develop heart problems, especially later in life.  Have a look at his mouth and abdomen and see if they have a bluish tinge to them - if so this could be what is slowing him down.

You could try feeding him some human baby food.  Get a packet of the dried food - creamy porridge oats.  Mix a little with water.  He needs this, along with his usual mix and fresh vegetables.  Also, check his teeth are OK - if you are worried he will bite, gently scruff him for a second and have  quick look - make sure both bottom teeth are the same length.  They are very long teeth, but should not be digging into his gums or top lip.  If one of these is overgrown this could be affecting his health.  If there is a problem with his teeth they will need cutting - you need to be very quick and careful not to cut his tongue - use a very good pair of clippers for this.  

Depending on the type of cage he is in - try to make it as user friendly for him as possible. If you can, move everything onto one level so he doesn't have to climb to get food/water etc.  

I would advise monitoring him for a few days - if he gets worse or if it is clear he is in pain, then I would strongly recommend you get him to a vet.

Good luck with this.  

Regards