Care of a Hamster Runt Syrian

Question
I own a baby Syrian hamster runt who is four weeks old. Throughout the runt's life, I have observed that it:

1. is inactive for the majority of the time (evening as well), choosing instead to burrow underneath the bedding and staying out of sight

2. walks abnormally, almost as if it had a stagger

3. has flattened ears that are small relative to its brothers' and sisters' ears

In addition, it has not eaten or drunk very much, and the mother sometimes ignores it.

I have three main questions:

1. How can I care for this runt? I care for it a lot.
2. Is it sick? Can we nurse it in a way that will help it develop to its maximum potential?
3. When should we separate the baby and the mother?

Thank you so much for your concern, and we are looking forward to your response as soon as possible!

Theodore D. Fong

P.S. we named the runt "Scout" after the character in "To Kill a Mockingbird"!  

Answer
Hi Theodore,

    First, the babies should have been separated from their mother and each other (boys in one cage, girls in another) at 3 weeks of age. This should be done ASAP. Hamsters can mate at this very young age and it would be very bad if one of the young females were to become pregnant.
    I don't believe Scout is sick. I believe he is scared. That is probably why he is inactive, hiding and isn't eating like he should be.
    I would suggest that when you separate them, if possible, put Scout in a cage by himself. This little guy needs some extra attention. Give him plenty of hamster food (and of course water) and some pieces of hard boiled egg (about 3-4) every evening for the next week. Also give him some diced carrots (3-4 pieces), but only every other day for the next week. This will give him the extra protein he needs to help him grow and you should see a difference in him within the next week. When you can, hold him and talk to him in a soft voice. Make sure while holding him that you cup one hand over him. This will help him to feel more secure and less likely to try and jump out of your hand. If He does not seem to be getting better or if he gets worse, then I would suggest he be taken to the vet.
    He may seem depressed for the first couple of days as will his brothers, sisters and Mom, but this is normal and will pass.
    Always remember to wash your hands before handling your hamsters.
    If you have anymore question, please write again.

Thank you for writing and best of luck!