My old hamster is sick: weight loss, clicking, wobbly. Is it old age?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.