Why is my old hamster breathing heavily? Is he sick or just old?

Hello, I'm so sorry to hear your hamster is not feeling well. The photo looks like she may have some diarrhea, which may help to explain why she has been lifting her bum up (tender) and has been lethargic. Her increased breathing rate may be a sign of pain. Unfortunately, two years old is considered elderly for a hamster so we also need to think about cancer as a possible cause as well. I would take her to a hamster-friendly vet as soon as possible. They may be able pinpoint a cause, and at least to provide medication to help with the diarrhea and pain, and fluids to help rehydrate her. I hope this helps.

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.

Thanks for reaching out about Vasia. It would be a mild concern that she has lost 20% of his body weight. Age is not a disease, and some organ system is probably responsible for the weight loss. Renal disease is fairly common in aging hamsters. Try and monitor water consumption and urination. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Chewy. A lower respiratory problem is more likely, such as pneumonia. But heart, liver, renal and other illnesses can lead to respiratory congestion. If doing this poorly, a veterinary visit is recommended ASAP. Good luck.

I’m sorry to hear about this with your hamster. As you mentioned, 2 is quite old for a hamster so we have to take that into consideration. His increased vocalizations are likely due to discomfort, probably from his illness. I would recommend taking him back to your veterinarian for a recheck just to make sure nothing else is going on. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

I am sorry to hear about Chippy. These are concerning signs and I would recommend getting Chippy into the vet as soon as possible. We would be concerned depending on his age about a respiratory infection or a heart issue. He may be able to be treated with antibiotics or other medication if an infection is the cause. Ensure he is in a draft free room with no air pollutants such as smoke, candles, air fresheners and has very clean cage with minimal dust (carefresh style paper shavings are the best) which can irritate the respiratory tract and get him to the vet right away.