How long do dwarf hamsters live? What are signs they're dying?

I am sorry to hear about Stig. If he is in a warm room and we are sure the shaking isn't from being chilled I would be concerned about his health. Unfortunately hamsters do have a short lifespan and some can live to 3 years, 2 years is a common age. I would consider bringing him in to a vet that sees exotic pets for an exam, in case there is something that can be done for him based on his examination.

These signs could be signs that Cookie is not feeling well but it could also be a sign of aging. Hamsters typically live about 2 years so Cookie is middle aged and slowing down is normal. monitor his eating and drinking very closely. If he is showing signs of illness, find a veterinarian who sees pocket pets. Please post again if you have any further questions.

I'm sorry to hear that! I don't see Theo's age. Typically hamsters live about 2 years. So depending on how long you've had him, he may have been reaching the end of his natural life span. These little guys can take a turn for the worse very quickly, so its not unusual for them to seemingly die suddenly. There is no way to know the cause of death without doing an autopsy and having a little more information on how he was acting and doing in the hours and day or 2 before he died. If you just found him dead in the last 12 hours, you can all a veterinarian local to you and ask if they'd be willing to do an autopsy. I would recommend that you clean the cage and change the bedding for the other hamster, just in case it was something potentially contagious. I'm so sorry for you loss. Thank you for trusting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question.

Hamsters do hibernate, but typically it occurs when the temperature drops below 65F. Hamsters live in average 18 months to 2.5 years, so unfortunately it could be that Viker is getting old and reaching the end of his life. I'd recommend a visit with the vet as soon as possible for him. Best of luck.

Two years old is considered "old age" for a hamster. These may be age related changes, but you would need to have him physically examined by your veterinarian to diagnose and treat any infection or injury. The clicking while breathing is concerning as it could be a respiratory infection.

Hi, sorry to hear about Stitch. From the pictures I can see small lumps on his body. Due to his age, I have a feeling these are tumors. Dwarf hamsters only live to be about two years old. Removing the tumors at his age would not help him. I think he is over grooming himself due to the tumors. I am sorry to say this, but I believe he may be at the end of his life and there is not much to help him. Taking him to an exotic vet can confirm this. I would also examine him carefully for mites and clean all of his cage and replace the bedding to see if that helps. A soft bedding made from recycled paper can make him more comfortable. Also, you can feed some some extra fruit and veggies to keep him eating. Good luck, I hope this helps!

Unfortunately it sounds as if your hamster is very sick. The life span of a hamster is 1.5-2 years so Milla is considered an older hamster. If you are unable to take her to be examined by a veterinarian the best thing you can do for her at home is keep her warm and dry and encourage her to eat as much as possible, even if you are able to hand feed her. Also make sure she is still urinating and defecating as well. Best of luck. Let us know if there is anything else we can do for you!