How to Care for an Aging Hamster
- 1). Older hamsters tire easily and are more prone to exhaustion, so begin to limit exercise time. Only allow occasional access to the stationary wheel and exercise ball.
- 2). Keep your hamster hydrated by making sure it has continuous access to water. Refresh the water several times throughout the day and offer the occasional treat of water-rich foods like cucumbers.
- 3). If your hamster begins having trouble chewing hard foods, like nuts, crack open the shells before feeding. Another option is introducing baby food, hand-fed through a small syringe.
- 4). Hamsters are very prone to drafts, and exposure becomes even more deadly with age. Keep the habitat in a warm area and try to keep the room temperature steady.
- 5). Hamsters have very poor eyesight and many go blind as they age. Keep all habitat items in the same location so it can be guided around by its keen sense of smell.
- 6). Carefully observe your aging hamster for signs of life-threatening diseases. According to veterinarian Susan Brown, common age-related diseases include tumors, ulcers, dental problems and blood clots in the heart.
- 7). Know when to visit the vet. If your hamster can no longer walk or you suspect it is in pain, euthanasia may be the most humane course of action.
