sick Syrian

Question
My hamster is almost 2 years old and she is extremely lethargic and seems like she is very fat all of the sudden.  Her eyes are not bright and one is slightly crusty.  She was her normal self as of Friday, but has been sleeping a lot, not taking her treats, not eating or drinking.  I have been trying to feed her water and pedialyte mixed together and baby food mixed with milk through an eye-dropper.  I probably need to take her to a vet, but she is not used to being picked up or handled and I am afraid a trip to the vet would send her over the edge.  She was originally the hamster in my husband's classroom, so she wasn't tamed from the beginning, but I always pet her and take her out of the cage into a playground I made for her using a big mug to transport her). I am trying to keep her comfortable, etc, but I don't know what to do. I am worried that she is suffering, but she doesn't seem to be because she just sleeps.  

Answer
hi amy,

chances are this is an old hamster. so there are many reasons why she might be ill. id definately suggest taking her to the vet. in order to make sure she is comfy, get a small cardboard box, fill it with the bedding she is using now, cos she'll recognize the smell and she should settle down quickly, if all she does is sleep and is rather ill it wont really make a difference.

im sorry i couldnt help you more, but id prepare yourself for the worst as she is sounding really sick. good luck. thanks for asking.

joanne x