hamster with closed eye

Question
Our hamster is almost three years old, which I know is getting pretty old for a hamster.  In the past month, he has developed an eye issue, although in every other way he seems healthy still.  The eye was crusty, but now just seems closed and will only open on certain days and after he has been awake for awhile.  Unfortunately, it is hard to monitor his eye because he is nocturnal.  Should I be worried?  There is no visible pus around the eye, and normally only looks a little crusty.  I had assumed it was age, but perhaps I should take him to a vet?

Answer
Hi Katie

Hamsters suffer from 'sticky eyes'.  This is exactly how you describe it above.  It is very important that a hamster opens its eyes on a daily basis, otherwise pus will form behind the eye lid and damage the eye.

You need to open his eyes for him daily - even if it means waking him up and getting him out of his nest.  Get some warm water on a piece of cottonwool or tissue, then gently wipe the area.  After a few seconds of doing this, gently try to open the eye- if you place your thumb one side of the eyelid and your index finger the other, gently try to separate them.  It isn't always easy - if the eye doesn't want to open immediately, wipe it again until it does open.  I have an elderly hamster who is just like this - he doesn't think much of having this done every day, and some days we have a bit of a fight over it!  But in the end it is worth doing.

Regards