Old little man symptoms - advice needed

[AlbysMum]

Oh Sazzle, I'm sorry lovely. It's so heart breaking to go through this and my heart hurts for you. I agree with Coco, do what your heart tells you. I know that the vet would be able to perhaps make it happen "quicker" but one thing that comforted me when we said goodbye to Tilly was that she went peacefully in her nest, surrounded by smells and noises she knew, and was warm. It did mean she lived a few days longer like this but she was not in pain and I was regularly going in to hand feed/water her.

As you prepare to say goodbye, it might help if you spend a little time with him (though I assume you already are!). If you're able to you could get hold of a 1ml syringe and provide little drops of water to him as he rests in bed. When Tilly was like this, I also made porridge and water for her. Just a tea spoon of porridge with some water, heated up in a pan, and then waited for it to cool but still a little bit warm. I'd offer this to her mouth on a little spoon and she'd take a couple of mouthfuls. Of course you don't have to do any of this, but I think it really helped both Tilly and I get through those final moments. Keep making sure your little guy is warm too, as they do start going really cold in the last few days.

Keep in mind that you've done so well with looking after him. He's lived much longer than you first anticipated. You've been a great little nurse for him and I'm sure he really appreciates that. It's difficult, but he is peaceful and surrounded by love. You've done really well. Keep us updated. Sending hugs xx

[Sazzle]

Thank you so much for your replies again. Your kindness and empathy has been very much needed and a great source of comfort. I agree with what you’ve both said, and I really do want him to pass here with me rather than having to be transported to the vets in the cold.

I have tried to hold a syringe and and have offered soft foods inculding his favourites, but he’s just not interested. He lifted his head up a little about half an hour ago but that’s it. I’ve put things right next to his head.

I was wondering if I should try to hold him but he looks comfortable. I was thinking of seeing how things are tomorrow after work. I’m so sorry for all the losses that you’ve all been through on this site. He’s my first hamster and I’ve grown so attached to him.

Thank you again. X

[cypher]

I'm sorry to hear that it does sound as though his time may be close now Sazzle, it's always a hard time for us but he does sounds peaceful & as comfortable as he can be & he.
I've had hams that want to be held at the end & be close to me & others that just want to go to the nest & go into their forever sleep when the time is ready.
Let him guide you & follow your heart, you know him so well I've no doubt you'll know what to do for the best.

[Sazzle]

I am very sad to say that Ricky, my little man, died peacefully this afternoon. He was all curled up in his bed and looked so comfy. I’ve taken him out and laid him in a box with his bedding in. He’s lying on his side and looks so peaceful. I’m glad I decided to keep him here. I think it’s what he would’ve wanted.

I have loved having him and will miss him so much. Thank you all so much for your kindness and support through these difficult few weeks. And also for all the help and advice I’ve been given from you all over the years that I’ve had him.

Goodbye Ricky. My little man. Rest in peace. Xx

[Coco61]

A peaceful end in his nest where he was loved and tenderly cared for. It is the the most dignified end of Ricky's life.
Rest in peace little man x

[CMB]

Sorry for your loss.

[cypher]

I'm so sorry he's gone now Sazzle but I'm glad he was able to have a peaceful end to his life & pass naturally in the comfort & security of his nest.
He had a long life full of love & no ham could have wished for more.
Hugs to you.
Run free & play well at the bridge Ricky.

[Thin Lizzy]

Oh Sazzle, so very sorry to hear your boy has gone, I'm glad he went peacefully in his nest. You gave him so much extra care and love and it was felt by us all how much he meant to you.
Thinking of you xx

[BorisPasha]

Sorry to hear about Ricky but I'm so glad he was able to go peacefully in his nest.

Hugs to you and have fun at the bridge Ricky.

[Pebbles82]

I am sorry for your loss xxx Little Ricky had a quiet, comfortable, peaceful ending though, in his own home and he ate and drank until the last couple of days. It sounds like he was ready to go and knew he was loved.