Caring for Senior Hamsters: Essential Tips & Advice

1. As hamsters age, their teeth may become brittle, crack, or grow crooked, and they might also develop cavities or overgrown teeth. Consequently, they can no longer chew on hard and dry foods, necessitating a timely adjustment to their diet by their owners. In addition to regular hamster food, owners should gradually introduce softer foods to older hamsters. If the hamster's diet includes synthetic pellets, these should be soaked until soft before feeding. Suitable soft foods for senior hamsters include boiled eggs, oatmeal, and cucumbers, which are not only nutritious but also gentle on their aging teeth.

2. Older hamsters are prone to constipation, so it's important for their owners to feed them a diet rich in fiber, such as cabbage, which can effectively alleviate constipation issues. While providing soft foods, it's also crucial to include some regular hamster food to prevent diarrhea. Neglecting this balance could lead to digestive problems for the senior hamster.

3. The lifestyle of senior hamsters should also be adapted. Avoid placing them in multilevel cages and reduce climbing toys to simplify their living environment, which can minimize accidents. However, a running wheel should still be provided for exercise when they desire it. Due to the stronger scent and urine of older hamsters, owners should regularly clean their cages and change the bedding material.

4. When caring for senior hamsters, owners should inspect their eyes, teeth, and claws daily, and pay close attention to their eating, drinking, and elimination habits. Any abnormalities should be addressed promptly. As the immune system weakens with age, owners might consider supplementing their senior hamster's diet with some health supplements.

It's crucial to note that senior hamsters should never be housed with younger ones, as the younger hamsters may bully the older ones, lacking the principle of respecting the elderly.