My hamster is losing weight and lethargic. Is he sick or old?

Thanks for reaching out about Hattie. The suggestion would be to have some diagnostic test performed, such as radiographs and blood work. Spondylosis or back problems are common in aging hamster, and could be managed by anti-inflammatory medications. Kidney problems, intestinal infections or parasites can also be investigated. Dental disease can reduce appetite. Uterine neoplasia is not uncommon in female hamsters. So a diagnosis is needed prior to recommending a treatment plan. Good 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.

Thanks for reaching out about Obelix. Being in fit condition after loosing weight is not necessary a problem, especially if very active. Hamsters are basically desert animals and drink little anyways. Monitor for now to determine if continues to loose weight. A veterinary visit would be needed to determine if a problem exists. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Biscuit and including photos. Intestinal parasites can be checked through a fecal examination at the veterinary office. Renal disease, endocrine disorders and other conditions can lead to weight loss. A veterinary visit is highly recommended before the weight loss gets worse. Good luck.

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear that Willow has lost some weight. You're absolutely right - a loss of 10 grams is significant; in fact, it's about 18% of her body weight. That would be like a person losing 15-25 pounds in 3 weeks. While the stress of being away from home could be the cause of the weight loss, I highly recommend that you bring her to an exotic vet to be checked out if she doesn't start putting that weight back on in the next week. A hamster's lifespan is 1-3 years, depending on the species, so if she's on the high end of that range, it's even more important that she sees a vet, especially if she doesn't appear to be eating or acting normally. There are certain parasites, organ diseases, and cancers that hamsters can acquire, and the only way to be sure that she's healthy is to see a vet. If you don't already have a regular vet, there is an exotic specialty practice near you. Here is their information: allCREATURES VETERINARY CLINIC 10305 San Pablo Avenue El Cerrito, CA. 94530 (510) 524-4551 I sure hope that little Willow gets better soon!

Thanks for reaching out about Vasia and including photos. It is impossible for us to determine how long he will remain with you but if having breathing difficulties, a veterinary visit could prolong his quality of life. Respiratory infections or heart disease are possible manageable conditions. Good luck.

I am very sorry winter is not feeling well. I would recommend taking her to a vet due to the weight loss and hair changes. Typically hamsters do not carry disease like infect people but I would recommend discussing that with the vet at her visit. I would be concerned about possible dental disease, skin infection, skin parasites or even internal disease. Winter really needs a good exam to determine the cause and provide proper treatment. hope that helps