Hello,

I'm sorry to hear that your hamster isn't doing well. You have apparently done a great job of taking care of him because a two-year-old hamster is the equivalent of a human well into their 80's.

As hamsters get older, they become more prone to some diseases that can't be treated. The symptoms you're seeing are common with these illnesses. Some of their organs can become embedded with minerals. They can develop cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Cancer and strokes become quite common. You can read more about hamster old age here:

http://www.hilltopanimalhospital.com/hamsters.htm

I'm afraid that your hamster most likely has one of these illnesses of old age. If after reading about the diseases of old age, you decide that's what's wrong, all you can do is keep him comfortable. You can make sure he has a soft bed, and use a syringe to put a few drops of water in the side of his mouth every hour or so. It's a good idea to try different foods as you're considering doing. Even at age two, there's a possibility that it may be something treatable. What I recommend is that you make an appointment to see a vet. After an exam, the vet can determine if your hamster can be treated. If so, the proper treatment can begin. If not, it may be best to have the vet humanely end your hamster's suffering. These links will take you to directories of vets who treat small rodents, who will have a better idea of how to treat a hamster:

http://www.rmca.org/Vets/index.php?action=list

http://www.ratfanclub.org/vetref.html


If you have more concerns or questions, or I can offer support in any other way, just let me know by clicking on REPLY.

Anna

You're doing all you can, then. The hamster is elderly, and at that age, it isn't likely that anything can be done. I'm glad to hear that your hamster doesn't seem to be in pain, and that he's enjoying his favorite treats.

Anna