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My hamster isn't eating hard food, drinking, and seems weak. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | unneutered

Hi, I have a hamster. he is eating lesser and seems like he unable to eat hard food. he is okay to eat soft food like fruits and vegetables. I have provide him some apple, strawberries and cabbage. I don't see him drinking and the water level seems never goes down. He sleep more than usual and when he move he look fatigue and unstable. May I know what happen to my hamster? he is only 10 - 12 months. What should I feed him more? Thanks! Regards, Kez

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on October 16th, 2017

If Fatty will allow, check his teeth. They could be overgrown or maloccluded. If so, have him examined by your veterinarian. The teeth can be trimmed or corrected so that he can eat normally. If the teeth are fine, an exam would be recommended to diagnose other illness or injury.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on February 22nd, 2017

    If he will let you, open his mouth gently and check for overgrown or misaligned teeth. If you see either, have him seen by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating pocket pets. If his teeth are fine, offer a favorite treat or snack. If he refuses or if he seems lethargic, have him seen by your veterinarian today or tomorrow to diagnose illness or injury.

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 26th, 2019

    Without examining the teeth myself it is hard for me to say what is happening exactly. He may have a malocclusion that is causing an issue. Hamsters teeth grow continuously so if they are too short, they should grow back. If one is missing, it may not grow back; it may have never come in or it may have been damaged so it's not growing or he could have a tooth root infection. Since he is not chewing his blocks/biscuits there may be a more serious issue underlying and I suggest you get him to a vet for an exam. As for his age, I cannot tell you. Hamsters are born with fully developed teeth so you cannot use teeth to assess age.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 27th, 2019

    I’m so sorry. There are so many different things that can cause them to not want to eat from poor teeth to infections to other things. I would have your vet take a look at him to determine the cause. your vet will be able to get him started on the best treatment plan to help him feel better and hopefully get his appetite back up and going. You could try to feel fresh fruits and veggies if you haven’t already. I hope this helps!

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