Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My hamster is lethargic, tired, and dragging her legs. Is she sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Female | unspayed | 26 days old

My daughters hamster is very lethargic and barely keeping her eyes open. She is acting very tired and allowing us to pick her up without wiggling around or anything. Normally she’s very wild and fast and sometimes nibbles a little. We just got her a couple weeks ago and she isn’t very old. Is this a sign she’s dying or do you think there’s still hope? When we put her down she sometimes tries to walk but it looks like her front legs are dragging. Have you seen this before?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 21st, 2018

She may not be dying, but she looks and is behaving as if she is seriously ill. You'll need to have Latte physically examined by your veterinarian to diagnose illness or injury though. In the tank, clean and sanitize her cage, bowls, toys and hides. Discard anything that cannot be sanitized. Keep her warm and as stress free as possible until she sees the vet. Offer small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte and moisten pelleted food to make eating easier.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button