Hamsters love to run and play. If your hamster stays hunched over in a corner of his cage, he is very uncomfortable and likely very sick. [2] X Research source Make a list of several activities your hamster loves to do (e. g. , run in his hamster wheel, gnaw on chew toys, etc. ). If he no longer does those things, his quality of life has worsened,[3] X Research source making euthanasia a reasonable option. Track his good days and bad days in a journal. [4] X Research source When he starts having more bad days and good days, it is time to start considering euthanasia.
Geriatric diseases in hamsters (e. g. liver failure, kidney failure, cancer) are those that occur after 18 months of age. They have no cure and can worsen a hamster’s quality of life. [7] X Research source Euthanasia is a reasonable option for hamsters with geriatric diseases. If your hamster has a geriatric disease, keep him as comfortable as possible until life has become too unbearable to him. This includes keeping him in a quiet area and handling him as little as possible. [8] X Research source Discuss treatment options, if any, with your veterinarian. Be aware that your hamster could be so sick that he would not be able to tolerate intense veterinary care. [9] X Research source Do not let your hamster suffer through treatment if it will not bring him better quality of life.
Consider asking your veterinarian if he or she thinks euthanasia is right for your hamster. [11] X Research source No matter how your veterinarian answers, remember that only you can make the decision to euthanize your hamster. Ask your veterinarian if he or she performs at-home euthanasia. Be mindful that not all veterinarians will do this. If you have children, discuss the best way to tell them about euthanasia. Children do not always understand end-of-life issues,[12] X Research source so you will have to be careful about explaining how ending a pet’s life can be humane. Ask your veterinarian about local pet loss support groups. Ask as many questions as you can think of, and express any concerns you may have. Although euthanasia is a difficult topic, your veterinarian understands this difficulty and can help you talk things through.
If you are delaying the decision, ask yourself if it’s because you are not ready to let your hamster go. Be aware that delaying your decision could be prolonging your hamster’s suffering.
The day of the week will also be important. You may want to schedule the euthanasia for the end of the week, when you will have the weekend to process what happened and start the grieving process. If you know the euthanasia will be hard for you, bring someone with you to the appointment. Check with them before making the appointment to make sure they will be available.
Your veterinarian can recommend professional pet burial or crematory services. Contact them before your appointment so those arrangements can already be in place. Your veterinarian may also work with a pet burial or cremation service.
Your veterinarian will most likely administer a lethal injection into your hamster’s belly and your hamster will pass away as a result. Your veterinarian will check your hamster for a pulse to ensure that he has passed away. It is your decision whether you want to be in the room for the euthanasia. [16] X Research source Some pet owners cannot stand the thought of seeing their pet euthanized, and others want to be close to their beloved pet until the very end. It is also your choice in how to say goodbye to your hamster. You may want to say a few things to him before and after he has passed on. It is up to you. [17] X Research source
Consider writing your feelings down if you’re having trouble processing your thoughts.
The staff at your local humane society may also be able to recommend pet loss support groups. [20] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
Do not buy another pet for your children to make them feel better. [22] X Research source Give them time to express how they feel about your hamster’s death before bringing a new pet into the home.
Remember that a new pet is not a replacement for your hamster. You will know when the time is right for you to get another pet. [24] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
