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My hamster is weak, breathing hard, heart beating fast. What do I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | 1lb

My hamster is very weak and either breathing hard or it's heart is beating fast. Please help I don't know what to do and he can barely walk to go and or drink.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on July 4th, 2017

It sounds like Bernie is under a great deal of distress. Any sort of respiratory or cardiac episode should be treated as an emergency, meaning that you should seek out veterinary emergency care right away. Find the nearest hospital that will see hamsters and take him in tonight.

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3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 4th, 2017

    It definitely sounds like something is going on with your little hamster. I would recommend taking him you your vet as soon as possible so he can be evaluated. In the meantime, continue to hand feed him if you are able to. Good luck.

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