Posted by Deneb on March 10, 2006, at 10:57:48
In reply to Deneb....you'll relate, posted by Berberis on March 10, 2006, at 7:12:56
> My hamster, Perkins, is dying. He's 2 years old so I knew his time was almost up but I'm still very sad. For the past week he hasn't eaten and doesn't open his eyes. He won't go in his wheel. I don't know whether to just wait it out and let him go naturally or take him to a vet and have him "put down". I wish I knew how much he's suffering.
I'm sorry about your hamster. It's so sad when they die. They live such short lives, but have such a big impact on us.
Does Perkins eat when you hand feed him? Try giving him some fruit flavoured yogurt, they really love it. When Hammie was dying, he still ate and drank when I hand fed him. I saw this as a will to live, that he wasn't ready to leave yet. If he doesn't eat, then it probably means that he wants to leave. In that case I would take him to the vet to be put down.
Going to the vet is very stressful for hamsters. I personally would avoid such a visit if my hamster isn't suffering much.
Make him as comfortable as possible. Make sure to change his bedding frequently if he wets himself. Give him lots of carefresh or tissue paper. Offer food and water. If he enjoys your company, hold him and let him know he's not alone.
It's a sad time. They usually go in their sleep.
My consolation came from the fact that Hammie lead a full and happy life.
My other hamster Sophie died very suddenly at a young age. :-( I'll never know what happened to her.
I'm sending peaceful and comforting thoughts to you and Perkins.
Deneb*
poster:Deneb
thread:618283
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20060310/msgs/618338.html