Old hammy skin problem - Page 2

cypher · 03-26-2017, 11:32 PM

If he's cold & making sounds that could be indicative of a respiratory problem then I would definitely take him in, I know with older hams it's easy to think that vets may just be inclined to say it's time to just keep them comfortable or they are too old to treat but that's not usually the case with a good vet, if he has a chance of getting over this & maybe needs antibiotics or other meds then I'm sure a good vet would offer that rather than just leaving him.

kaylah6 · 03-27-2017, 04:37 AM

This morning he hasn't even made it into his nest and was just lying on his side heavy breathing. the vet has said it would be kinder to have him put down as it sounds like he has reached the end rather than signs of illness. To be honest I wouldn't want to force antibiotics on him the stage he was at this morning. I did it with my last hamster and watched her struggle til the very end and it was awful. He will be going in tomorrow so tonight I'm going to keep him warm and loved. If only they lived longer eh?

cypher · 03-27-2017, 05:11 AM

Sorry to hear that Kaylah, in your last post it sounded as though he may pull through but if it is his time then it may well be that the kindest thing is to help him on his way, hard though it is it's a final gift of love.

dreamtree1234 · 03-27-2017, 08:45 AM

I am so sorry to hear that Bollo isn't feeling well. It does sound like he possibly nearing the end, but I would not give up hope. I would definitely keep an eye out for any changes, make sure that he is warm, make sure he has everything within extremely easy reach, and keep giving him flax seeds and primrose oil. If he doesn't improve in a few days and your next month's financial status improves, I would try to take him to the vet if possible. However, if you can't take him to the vet, I would just do exactly as you have been and make him as comfortable as possible. I will definitely be praying for you and Bollo. I truly hope that things turn around soon, and he recovers soon from whatever is ailing him. Please know that we are all thinking of you both. Please keep us informed of how things are going whenever you have a chance. Good luck.

kaylah6 · 03-27-2017, 09:31 AM

Thank you all, your words mean a lot to me. I've came home from work and he's still lying on his side with laboured breathing. My oh said he's frequently been checking on him and he's made a few attempts to move across the cage but gave up and been unable to get back to his nest. His food and water are close but he's had to bring the bottle to his mouth to give him a drink. As much as I'd like to think and hope he would recover I think he's too far gone for treatment and to prolong his life would feel selfish. I did this with my last hamster, had her on antibiotics and refused to have her euthanised and she was gasping for air by the end, I just can't do that again

Drago · 03-27-2017, 09:42 AM

I'm so sorry to hear that he's doing so poorly

It may be time to consider what the kindest option is, even if it's difficult. Only you know your hamster so the decision has to be made because you feel it in your heart, but remember to always put Bollo's quality of life first. If you do decide that letting him go is best, bring him into the vet in his cage so he's comfortable, and give him any treats that he wants! I'm so sorry about his situation, I know it must be very hard to go through this, sending lots of love and support your way. Let us know how everything is going x

kaylah6 · 03-27-2017, 11:30 AM

Thanks again for all the kind words and advice. Unfortunately he took his last breaths tonight

cypher · 03-27-2017, 11:47 AM

I'm so sorry Kaylah, it's always so hard to lose them but he's at peace now, he had a good long life with you & it was just his time, I'm glad he was able to go peacefully at home.
Hope your ok.

Run free & play well at the bridge Bollo.