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My old hamster has a swollen belly. Is he suffering? What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 8 months old

My hamster has a swollen abdomen, which started around a month ago and has steadily got larger. He is 2 years and 8 months old. He is eating and drinking but is now finding it hard to get around, although he tries. I am aware that he is very old and probably nearing the end of his life. I thought nature would take its course a couple of weeks ago, but he is still hanging on. I do not want him to suffer and am wondering if there is any treatment or should he be put to sleep.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on August 30th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! So sorry to hear about poor Shaun. A swollen abdomen could be many things including fluid accumulation (ascites), organ enlargement, or some type of growth/tumor inside the abdomen. Liver/kidney problems could be causing this also. If he is weak, not eating, drinking, not happy, and you assess his quality of life as poor compared to what it used to be, it may be time to make a very tough decision. I have found over the years that this is the toughest thing that all of us face in life and none of us want to make an irreversible decision with our loved ones and pets. But sometimes it is more humane to assist them in passing. I leave it up to my clients to decide, it's an individual journey for all of us and I never pressure anyone unless death is imminent and I know the pet is suffering. I would maybe call your local vet or animal shelter and see what they can do to help you along and make this journey the best for you and Shaun. Again I'm so sorry and I truly understand the pain you are feeling as I have witnessed it from both side of these situations many times in my career. I wish you the best and know that all of us care in this profession each time our clients are faced with these decisions. God bless.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Rebeccah Wood

    Licensed Veterinary Technician, Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist

    Published on May 7th, 2018

    Hello there, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You must be doing something right if Merlin has been healthy until now, as 2.5 years is relatively old for a hamster. The dull coat and weight loss may simply be due to the normal aging process, but I do start worrying about health issues at this age, and you are right to be concerned about his enlarged abdomen. The dried feces at his rectal area that you mentioned also makes me think that Merlin might have soft stools, which can be an indicator of disease. There are certain viruses and bacterial infections that can cause these symptoms, so I do recommend that Merlin visit's a veterinarian for an examination and possibly some diagnostics to determine the cause. I don't like to use the C-word, however at Merlin's age, cancer must also be taken into consideration. Cancers of the bowel and other internal organs, while not common, are a possibility. In the meantime, keep Merlin well hydrated and fed with his usual pellets and fresh fruit and veg supplement. If he starts to act lethargic or the abdominal swelling gets worse, it should be treated as a medical emergency and I would get him to the vet ASAP. Good luck, and I sure do hope that Merlin recovers!

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