sick hampster - HELP!!

Question
My daughter just got a hampster.  It was okay for a few days, but tonight it started acting real weird and lying around limp and lifeless.  Of course my daughter is flipping out, and I don't know what to do.  I'm afraid it will be dead by morning.  If it matters, she got that damn thing wet earlier this week while trying to make him take a drink.  Please help,  and Soon!!

Answer
Hi John,

    It sounds like the hamster may have caught a cold.  This often happens when hamsters get wet.  It should be kept in a warm room (not hot) of constant temperature and away from draughts. Some extra aspen or Carefresh (not pine or cedar, as this is dangerous) bedding should be placed in the cage and the hamster should recover within a couple of days. If the hamster does not recover after a couple of days or if it worsens, veterinary advice should be sought as antibiotic treatment may be required.
    If the hamster exhibits any signs of a severe cold (runny eyes, lethargy, weight loss, refusal to eat/drink or labored breathing/wheeziness) veterinary advice should be sought immediately as antibiotic treatment is likely to be needed and failure to treat quickly could lead to bronchitis or pneumonia from which the hamster may have trouble recovering.  Giving a mixture of lukewarm water, milk, and honey will also help with the hamster's recovery.
    Provided colds are treated early before severe symptoms occur the hamster should make a full recovery within a few days.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Kelly