Hamsters are fantastic and loyal animals. However, they only live on average 2-3 years and this duration can seem mercilessly short. If your hamster is suffering from old age or a disease, learn how to limit his suffering, but also your pain, by reading this article.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Prepare for Loss
Step 1. Recognize the symptoms
There are many reasons why your hamster could die. Old age, for example, can cause your vision to deteriorate, or you may notice that your hair becomes thinner and thinner. At the same time, there is the possibility that he will become apathetic and inappetent, but also that he will exhibit unusual behaviors, such as urinating in the place where he sleeps.
Step 2. Talk to someone who can help you
Your parents may offer you advice on how to help your hamster. It would be useful to consult an experienced professional, such as a veterinarian, to know the details regarding the care to be given to your pet. He will give you advice on nutrition, exercise and treatments.
Step 3. Assess how much pain your hamster is feeling
If it is in too much pain, try to consider other solutions. Euthanasia may be the best option to end your malaise. This is a painless process and the vet will do everything possible to make the last stages of his life as peaceful as possible.
Step 4. Prepare friends and family
It is best to communicate to the people you care about what is happening. It may be your child's first experience of closeness to death, so it's best to approach it with care. Be honest and sensitive.
Method 2 of 4: Assisting Him Throughout the Various Stages
Step 1. Give your hamster the comforts it needs
During his final days, make sure he doesn't get sad. Add some soft material to the cage. Let him sleep as long as he wants. Put his favorite toys in his container.
Step 2. Avoid holding it too much in your hand
He may be running out of energy and not engaging in his normal physical activity. It is best not to tire him excessively by taking it in your hand.
Step 3. Feed and water him properly
Talk to your vet or your parents about what diet they should be on. If, for example, he is suffering from a heart condition, you may choose not to give him fatty foods, such as sunflower seeds. Dental problems can also make hamsters suffer in old age. Try feeding soft foods, such as rice or grains.
Method 3 of 4: Coping with Mourning
Step 1. Admit how much you are grieving over the loss of your hamster
You will be shocked and sick. You may experience strong emotions, such as anger, grief, depression, or guilt. It is normal to feel this kind of feeling after the loss of a creature you were attached to.
Step 2. Give yourself some time
Your hamster was part of your family and you will need time to mourn. Consider taking a few days off from work or not going to school to tackle this path. Statistics show that the pain you feel when a pet dies is similar to what you feel when you lose a family member.
Step 3. Talk to friends and family
Your loved ones probably know how much you loved your hamster. They can help you get over your grief if you make contact with them. If you open up by communicating how you feel, they can give you their support and ease the pain left by your cute pet's death.
Step 4. Commemorate your hamster
Remember the good things you shared with him. You can browse some photos that portray him or dedicate a thought to him by mentioning the games and activities with which you enjoyed together. These memories may slightly relieve the pain left by his disappearance.
Step 5. Write what you hear
You can start a blog or keep a journal. By writing down your feelings, you will be able to mourn. Try writing down the best memories and thoughts about your hamster.
Step 6. Use other resources
If at any time you feel distressed, do not hesitate to seek help from people who can understand what you are feeling: in addition to friends and family, consult a counselor, therapist, support groups or family doctor. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider if you have difficulty eating, sleeping, or concentrating within two weeks of bereavement. These could be depressive symptoms: in these cases, your doctor can offer you valuable help to deal with depression and make you feel better.
Method 4 of 4: Overcoming the Loss
Step 1. Volunteer at an animal shelter
As soon as you start feeling better, you probably won't want to adopt a new hamster. Try volunteering at an animal shelter to help those who need you. This will help relieve your pain even further.
Step 2. Find a new friend
Once you get over the loss, you will be more likely to adopt a new hamster. Pay a visit to the shelter or pet store looking for another member to add to your family.
Step 3. Resume your normal habits
To completely overcome the disappearance you should go back to your regular daily routine. You may feel bad for some time, but if you live one day at a time, you will find that the pain lessens.
Step 4. Remember that everything will be fine
Everyone experiences death. Know that you are not alone in dealing with your loss. It can be a very difficult time for you, but things will get better. Remember these steps and allow yourself time to mourn.
Warnings
- You can reuse your hamster's cage, bowls and toys. Make sure you disinfect them properly so they don't transmit any diseases. Discard the used blankets in the cage and purchase more for the new hamster.
- Do not throw the hamster in the toilet. There is a risk of serious plumbing problems. Commemorate your furry friend with a burial or cremation. Talk to your vet about the various options available.
