Hamster suffered a stroke

Erinshaw · 08-12-2016, 10:53 PM

I'm looking for some help in regards to what to feed a hamster after she suffered a stroke. I spotted her last night sleeping in a place where she wouldn't normally, and she was quite unstable on her feet. This morning she seemed more perkier and was trying to dig and eat. I put a little bit of Apple in her cage last night and dipped it in a little bit of water this morning so she stays hydrated. I've seen people saying to feed them baby food, I'm just cautious as to what type/flavour would be best. She's 2 years old and normally a very happy hamster who still looks healthy. Any help would be must appreciated.

souffle · 08-13-2016, 12:04 AM

I'm sorry to hear your hammy is ill. Did you see a vet with her?
Hamsters do make good recoveries from strokes with plenty rest. They can be left with some weakness somewhere though so best to keep the cage easy to navigate and on one level. Sometimes they find a little bowl easier to lap water from is they are unsteady standing up at the bottle.
Over moist veg like cucumber and be sure to check that she is weeing and pooing as sometimes the bowel and bladder are affected and things jam up which is serious medical emergency.
They do need plenty fibre though to keep things moving in that department so only a teaspoon of babyfood. Things like porridge are also good. No citrus babyfoods or things with onion in. We use grandmas sunday lunch or chicken and pasta though they also enjoy the fruit ones.
If she isn't eating hard mix you could try soaking in water to soften.
Sometimes a little metacam from the vets can aid recovery.
Hope she does well.

Thin Lizzy · 08-13-2016, 05:15 AM

Hi There!
Like Souffle said, make the cage all one level and ensure she gets plenty rest, give her extra substrate and bedding so she's comfortable. Make sure her food & water is easy to access.
Cow N Gates Baby Cauliflower Cheese, Heinz Brocolli Cheese are popular baby foods with hamsters.
If you have a wheel in her cage, take it out while she recovers and maybe give her an extra hidey place so she has plenty places to take cover.