Help...our hamster is very sick

Question
Thank you so much for answering my question.  Cali, our hamster of 4 years (my daughter corrected me later), died on Christmas Eve.  It was very hard.  I got some info on line while waiting...I held him to warm him.  He was so weak.  I got a heating pad and put a towel on top of it.  He didn't last much longer.  He appeared to be having some reflex actions...it was hard to watch.  We just held him until he stopped moving.  I thought he was sick at first, but now I think it was his age.  Over the last few months he wasn't running on his wheel every night.  He seemed so energetic though??  I think his body was just tired from old age.  My dad was supposed to bury him today for us.  Thanks again for your support.
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-----Question-----
We have a teddy bear hamster (syrian).  We went to add some new things to his cage and he was not moving.  We picked him up and he is breathing shallow and fairly rapid.  My daughter said he feels cold.  He had food and water in his cage.  I have not heard him out running on his wheel the last few nights??  This is the sweetest hamster.  He is about 2-3 years.  What can I do?
-----Answer-----
hi belinda,

things arent looking good for this little fella, he may have gone into hibernation, but its unlikely. try putting him in a warmer room, not next to direct heat, leave him their for an hour and he should come round. you will know if hes hiberating or not if he doesnt come out.

seen as he is a little old man now, his body just isnt what it used to be and he may pass on sooner rather than later. just make the rest of his time, as comfortable and as happy as you can, give him lots of bedding, and treats, you've obviously done a great job for him to have lived so long and im sure he loves you back for it.

best of luck and thank you so much for your question, please let me know what happens.

joanne xx

Answer
hi belinda,

im so sorry your hamster passed away, and that i took so long to reply, as you know this time of year is particulary busy for most people.

however you know i think you have done a great job of giving him the life every pet hamster should have, and where-ever he is, i bet hes happy.

take care

joanne xxx