Wet Tail or Not Wet Tail? Urgent Advice Required!!

[RedStarBlackpool]

Hammy, my Syrian (approx. 4 months old) has become very ill in the past 3 days. He was really lethargic, not coming out at night, not eating, barely drinking. He also seemed to be very weak, unable even to hold food in his front paws to eat it. I took him to the vet yesterday who says it's an infection (didn't specify which) and started him on an antibiotic, Baytril, which he's now had 2 doses of. Having examined him, his backside does look wet and dirty, but I haven't found any trace of diarrhoea in the cage. Could it be wet tail, and is there any hope of recovery? At the moment, I'm not too positive.

[souffle]

I am sorry to hear he is so poorly. If he is so very weak and not eating with bad diorrhoea it is very very hard to pull a hamster back I'm afraid. He really needs intensive nursing with fluid every few hours as well as keeping him feeding and keeping him very warm. If the bowel is already damaged he may not pull though even if the infection is cured by the antibiotic. For now keep very warm (airing cupboard is a good place), Syringe feed fluid every hour (just a little) try and get him to take food (live yogurt is good and baby food) You may beed to offer this on a teaspoon to his mouth. Keep him clean by wiping with a cotton ball and have the strength to know if he cannot bear it. Wet tail smells really bad. Like the whole room will smell bad if he has this.
I am so sorry redstar. You need to decide in your heart if you think he can make it and if you feel he is suffering it is a great gift to give him peaceful rest. I hope he turns the corner for you.

[RedStarBlackpool]

Thanks very much for that, souffle. From what you said, it sounds as though it isn't wet tail after all, there's no trace of diarrhoea in his cage and no smell in the room at all. However, he remains pretty ill. He's due back at the vet on Thursday, I think I may have to make a decision about his future then. Considering he's my very first hamster, I've been pretty unlucky as he also suffers from misaligned teeth and has to have them clipped under anaesthetic every few weeks. Thanks again for your advice, I'll keep you posted.

[souffle]

I wonder if he has a kidney or bladder infection? He may just be dirty underneath as he does not have the strength to clean himself. You need to clean him to help him feed fresh and not let the infection spread.
Good luck little one.
XX

[RedStarBlackpool]

Just to update you further. From the sort of movements he was making last night, and the fact that he was struggling to keep his balance, I'm starting to fear some sort of neurological damage has been done. It now looks very much like his trip to the vet tomorrow morning may be his last. As he's only 3 and a half months of age, it doesn't make me feel great to have to make this decision, but I think we've reached the stage now where it may be the best thing.

[souffle]

If you know in your heart he is unable to cope your decision will be the right one as it is made from love.
Please get in contact when you feel the time is right to give your heart to a new, healthy baby hammy then hopefully we can point you at a good breeder.
I hope his path is gentle
XX

[RedStarBlackpool]

Thanks very much, souffle, I appreciate it. I got Hammy from Pets at Home, and I guess he's an unwitting victim of irresponsible breeding (ie. his misaligned teeth). I will definitely be looking to buy from a proper breeder next time. Thanks again for your help.

[RedStarBlackpool]

Hammy passed away this morning. R.I.P. Hammy. I'm so sorry, mate. Missing you already. xxx

[IndigoElectron]

I'm so sorry to hear that

Hugs to you xx

[souffle]

I am sorry red star but I think you knew his time had come and it was a merciful release for him. His time with you was filled with caring and he knew this. Rest in peace Hammy