Why Do Hamsters Die? (And How to Help Them Live Longer!)

Your furry friend, the hamster, is a curious and adorable little animal but they’re also vulnerable to injury and illness that can cause death.

We know this news might have you concerned about your small furry pal, maybe even nervous that your hamster’s behavior isn’t normal.

But don’t worry!

We were curious too and found out there are ways to prevent your hamster from getting sick, learned some tips on how to keep your hamster healthy and safe, and what kind of behavior to keep an eye on.

Some hamsters die because of illness or disease, such as Wet Tail Disease while others pass away due to preventable mistakes such as falling from a dangerously high height. 

Hamster behavior can be confusing at times. Is my pet just burrowing? Just hiding away to hibernate? Maybe they're sick and require a trip to the vet? Although hamsters do have a shorter lifespan than most household pets, if you take care of your hamster and watch for signs of illness, they can live a healthy and happy life. Here's how to do just that.

Cute funny Syrian hamster looking out of the cage, Why do hamsters die? (And how to help them live longer!)

Why Hamsters Die: Common hamster illnesses

Just like any other living creature, hamsters can get sick and die. The cause can be a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection.

When these are left untreated - and sometimes even with the best veterinarian care - they can sometimes be fatal.

Prevent infections from spreading

Hamsters easily spread disease amongst each other, so if you have more than one hamster in a habitat and think one might be sick, you should separate them right away.

Your hamster might have picked up a virus from an ill hamster in their cage at the pet store, or they could have developed an illness after you brought them home. Either way, none of us wants to see our pet unwell.

With that in mind, here are a few common hamster illnesses that, if left untreated, can result in death.

For more detailed coverage of these and other ailments, make sure you read our guide about the 7 health issues in hamsters that every owner needs to know about.

Abscesses

We love to coo over hamsters with chubby cheeks, commenting on how adorable their little faces look.

But there are occasions when those puffy cheeks are a cause for concern.

Your hamster can develop an infection, caused by bacteria. This infection can result in an abscess and can be extremely painful for your pet, requiring drainage and antibiotics.

If you notice swelling or a lump, hard or soft, anywhere on your hamsters’ body, it's necessary to visit a veterinarian right away.

Left untreated, the bacteria which causes the abscess can get into the hamster's bloodstream and cause a dangerous condition called bacteremia.

Since the hamster's body is so small, once bacteremia sets in, there's usually no going back.

That's why you should not delay treatment - get your hamster to the vet as soon as you notice any lumps.

Cough and Colds

It’s surprising for many people to learn that a hamster can catch a cold, just like me and you!

The little critters can develop the sniffles, sneezing, or even have a cough.

If you notice your hamster has a wet nose, having difficulty breathing, or is wheezing, a cold might be the culprit.

But, even though a cough is relatively harmless for humans, a respiratory infection can lead to a more serious illness in your hamster. If you believe your pet has a cold, it's best to consult with a medical professional for advice on how to treat and keep your hamster healthy.

In other words, yes, your hamster needs to be seen by a qualified veterinarian.

Wet Tail Disease

Triggered by bacteria and stress, wet tail disease is unfortunately very common among hamsters and is highly contagious.

Sadly, even if caught early, most wet tail disease diagnoses end in death within 72 hours.

If you notice your hamster has diarrhea, unexplained wetness around the tail, low energy, fatigue, or aggression, it is critical to seek medical attention for your pet as soon as possible.

Your veterinarian can accurately assess your hamster and discuss the next care steps or prescribe antibiotics if required.

Read more in our guide about Wet Tail Disease in hamsters.

How to prevent your hamster from getting sick or injured

By following a few simple tips, you can help keep your hamster safe and encourage a healthy life for your pet.

If you’re feeling sick, give your hamster space

Hamsters easily catch and spread disease. They can even catch colds from humans!

If anyone in your household has a cough or the flu, avoid handling your pet hamster until you’re feeling better, don’t cough directly on your hamster or into their cage, and always wash your hands before and after holding your hamster.

Separate your hamsters if one of them is ill

If you have more than one hamster in a habitat and you notice one is sick, it's best to separate them to avoid spreading disease.

When your hamster is healthy again, you can reintroduce your pets when you and your vet think it's safe to do so.

Avoid cold rooms

Try to avoid keeping your hamster in a place that is drafty, too cold, or has excessive moisture (such as an unfinished basement).

Try to keep your hamster's cage away from drafty windows. You might want to invest in a heat lamp if it's difficult to keep the room warm.

Don’t confuse a heat lamp with artificial light. Excessive light will actually disrupt your hamster’s natural rhythm.

Hamsters are nocturnal. They love to play, eat, and exercise in the dark!

Be careful when holding or carrying your hamster

Young person holding hamster with both hands

Something as simple as your hamster slipping out of your hands and onto the floor can be deadly for your pet. It's important to be very careful when you, a friend, or a child are handling your hamster.

If you allow your hamster to run and explore outside of their cage, make sure you prevent injury and keep them in a safe, enclosed area.

For instance, a fall off of a bed could mean a severe injury and a trip to the vet for your pet.

Could your hamster be hibernating?

It’s very common for hamsters to burrow and hide in their habitat. Hamsters are inquisitive creatures by nature and love to explore their cages, creating tunnels and hiding beneath their bedding.

If your hamster has burrowed under the bedding and won't come out - could he be hibernating?

While wild hamsters can sometimes hibernate in the winter, most domestic hamsters do not. Hamsters only hibernate if they're in an unusually cold environment.

They then move around to find food to eat, water to drink, or if they are scouring for extra materials for their nest.

If you think your hamster might be hibernating, there are a couple of tricks to get your hamster up and moving again.

Use a heat lamp

Many pet owners use a heat lamp in their hamster’s habitat to keep them warm and provide ample light, especially if they’re in a room that does not hold in heat.

Hamsters prefer warm climates, and if it gets too cold, they can go into hibernation.

Hamsters don’t like temperatures that are extreme either way, too low or too high, so be sure to keep your pet in an environment between 65- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit.

Ensure your hamster has enough food and water

Hamster is standing next to the plastic bowl of food and water in the cage

Sometimes hamsters will go into hibernation mode because they can’t find enough resources to stay alive.

While you want to make sure you’re not overfeeding your hamster, they can be hoarders, if you happen to notice your hamster isn't active, try replenishing their dish with fresh food and water.

Keep an eye on your hamster, watch if they explore your offering, and gather a helping of food.

Check your hamsters’ vital signs

Don’t worry! You don't need a stethoscope for this. Just look closely at your hamster, if they've gone into hibernation, they will be taking very slow breaths.

It may be difficult to see whether or not your pet is breathing.

You might need to remove your hamster from their cage carefully. Try not to worry if your hamster feels cold. Hibernation can trigger low body temperature.

Apply slight pressure very gently on their chest to feel for a heartbeat. If you are concerned your hamster isn't hibernating and might be sick or worse, dying, it's essential to consult a veterinarian.

Signs your hamster might be dying

There is no way to know for sure, but there are a few telltale signs your hamster might be dying of old age.

You might notice your pet's eyes are dull. Their fur may become thinner than usual.

You may notice decreased appetite unrelated to illness, or a change in normal behavior such as they might begin to urinate where they nest.

What do if your hamster dies

Tragically, a hamster's lifespan is only around two years. Hamsters can die suddenly due to old age, even while engaging in normal activities.

Your hamster might be enjoying their favorite activity such as running on their exercise wheel or nibbling away on their favorite snack when they pass away.

If you notice your hamster isn't moving and feels stiff to the touch, it is possible your pet has passed away. You may want to consult with your vet to confirm your pet’s diagnosis and determine if you would like to proceed with a burial.

For many, the loss of your pet is similar to the loss of a family member and a heavy load to bear.

It’s natural to feel upset and grieve the loss of your hamster while you find a way to honor your pet.

While some people prefer to discuss their feelings with loved ones, others would rather spend time alone while they heal.

Remember, your hamster may not be with you for your whole life, but to your pet, you made their life whole.

Also, please check 37 Hamster Care Tips that will take you to the next level, your pet might not live as long as you but give them a chance to see you grow by taking care of them. Happy caring!

Raschael
Raschael
Articles: 5

29 Comments

  1. I have had two Syrian Golden hamsters die, each a week after they arrived from different pet stores. The habitat, food, bedding, etc. are all regulation approved for hamsters. It cannot be a coincidence that both hamsters died so soon after arriving. Any ideas? I’m baffled. Thank you.

    • I’m sorry to hear about your hamsters, Edward. I would consult with a local veterinarian that specializes in exotic pets before bringing home another hamster. This could have been a disease transmitted over the gear that you were using.

  2. Last month my syrian golden hamster die she’s healthy and active and lovely with beautiful skin and fit body but then she dies and I dont know why ????

    • theres no point in leaving this site just because you read an article that made you sad. sry for your loss. 🙂

    • @Isaiah Huerta, Agreed, my hamster died just now, he’s only a year and a half, he was the best in the family. I have 3 families going on. 1 ended, 2 are still going, my hamster was the only winter white, I had no idea we gave him Cambells to breed with. He was the best but now he’s gone…

  3. I bought two hamsters from different pet stores as well, and they were fine the day before they passed. I didn’t even have them for a month. They’d hurt me so much because I took amazing care of both and now they’re gone. I really don’t know what could have happened

  4. My Sammy just died suddenly in 6/4/20. He was 2.5yrs old. He died in my arms. One thing is certain, I saved him, I loved him, I gave him the best life I believe I could have. He saved me, he loved me, he got me thru the death of of my black lab of 14 yrs. I will miss him terribly. Thank God he died in my arms, and went quickly. I just picked up his ashes so that he will be with me always. #hamstersmatter

  5. I had to gave my daughters hamster euthanized today… she was over 2 yrs old, developed wet tail…we got her treated with antibiotics from vet and she seemed to perk up for 3-4 days… then deteriorated and became so lethargic and dehydrated despite me syringe feeding her electrolyte fluids as advised.. she was kept warm and gently nursed till the end. She was a beautiful pet, so friendly… we will miss her. RiP Pip. Xx

  6. I am noticing a trend of people and hamsters doing in a short time.

    My daughter’s hamsters were sisters, trip months old and sure within 24 hours of each other. Could of be covid? The one yesterday was running on her ball for a long time, she pooped in the ball a lot, we put her in the cake and she died in the tube.

    • Oh no… hamster balls? They are TERRIBLE D: they have poor ventilation and once a hamster starts running it can never stop 🙁 I’m sorry to hear your loss though but I don’t think its covid.

  7. My Syrian Hamster Smidge is nearly 2 years old. The sides of her body are going in and out quite fast indicating breathing difficulties. When she is sitting her little body rocks gently. I took her to the Vets and he gave her medicine in the forms of drops which she is taking on a grape. I can see that she is getting “older” and fear her little life may be coming to an end in the not too distant future. Like all animal lovers I feel very sad to see her like this but I handle her every evening (she doesn’t get up till 9.30pm) and sit with her until 11.30. My husband and I re-homed her, have loved her and given her the best life we can but dread the day she is no longer with us. Sending best wishes to all Hamster lovers who feel the same.

    • 6 years ago i bought a hamster for my grandson and he lived until today and now passed. Im just as upset as he is. Tonight we will remember and cremeate him. It was a syrian hamster. I never thought a hamster could have lived this long. I think if whatever you buy and give it love you might be surprised but remember all pets will someday die so always never forget that and enjoy its life as best as you can. I have found hamster s give back alot of love. They become part of your family. Now my new decision is do i do again or not get hamster. What do you all think?

      • I think your hamster would want you to give another little guy or gal the happy life and love that you’ve given to them. That’s how I try to see it. I buried my little baby today and know she wouldn’t want me to be sad, I know that I’ve given her the happiness and love she’s given to me. Hope this helps. ❤️

  8. Just went through as part of learning how to best care for the furry ball… sad to hear of your losses. Ours is c. 6 months old and doing well. Thought I’d share a good news story to boost everyone’s morale.

  9. my sweet hamster honey bunny is a cambelle dwarf i just got her and her tail was wet i dont have money to take it to a vet i think she got her tail wet on her water but i dont know her tail is not wet anymore but i dont know im realy scared shes gonna die i gave my best into her and if she dies im gonna hate myself she made me happy when i was sad and mad

  10. My first Hamster died when i was 4 her name was Rosie. I’m ten now and my 2nd hamster is a jerk ;D but he is only two, three or four months and he is hyper. His name is Grayson.

  11. My hamster was active today,but with an unmoving leg,and the next hour,her eyes are wide and her bad leg sprawled in a bad way and her eyes open ,unmoving ,cold and stiff.How did she died?

  12. My daughter’s Syrian hamster Rosie died today. She was a year and a half. She wasn’t showing any signs of old age and she seemed completely fine a couple of days ago. Just found her dead in her habitat this morning 🙁 Wondering if it had maybe been a seizure as she wasn’t showing signs of any illness and no, she wasn’t in hibernation.

  13. I have now syrian and robo hamster they are so sweet and jolly hamster they are 10 months old …i love them so much ..me and my husband is taking care of them..they love us too much…the way the act to show their love to us is very apparent… They kiss us and enjoy playing with us. Really everytime im thinking thatvone day they will leave us make me sad and i cry too much. Thats why every minute of our life is very important to enjoy with them… I love them so much….snow i and wetwet made us so happy …we enjoy our life being with them……God bless us….thank u Lord for bringing these lovely creatures to us..

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