New owner/hamster death

[rockelscorcho]

I got a new hamster about two weeks ago for my birthday. He was a very good hamster, but seemed to be depressed sometimes. He had two wheels, food, water, and alot of space. After reading most of the threads here, I made some mistakes with him. I should have researched before I bought him, and the pet store should have told me information also. Anyway, he got wet tail, I didn't even know what it was. He died yesterday. It was pretty bad, I didn't find him dead, I saw him slumped over and I picked him up. Sure enough, he died in my hands. I really liked a hamster as a pet. I have two questions. 1 If I get another hampster, I feel will be prepared for him to reduce stress. But if he gets wet tail again, are there any immediate means to help him besides a vet? Any over the counter medications? 2. Based on what is said about hamsters and their stress levels, should a hamster really be a pet?

[PetLuver21257]

First off, NEVER get ANY ANIMAL as a present for any occasion because in your case, you didn't know how to take care of it, and some other people get sick of it and forget to take care of it or don't take care of it.

1. You can get something called DriTail. Or, you could try getting a dwarf or two because they don't usually get wet tail, they get diabetes in stead, but it's less deadly than wet tail.

2. Yes, a hamster can be a pet. As long as the owner knows basically everything needed to know about a hamster BEFORE they get it. That way, the owner can try to figure out what's wrong and bring it to the vet ASAP if needed.

Did you handle him the first day you got him?
Did you drop the cage or him?
Did he roll on his back and show his belly?
Was he lethargic/not eating/looking ill?

If he/you did anything like that, and you had researched before hand on hamsters, knowing something was wrong, then he might still be alive today.

Unless you requested a hamster for your birthday, tell whoever gave him to you that what they did was wrong and to NEVER give ANYONE a pet for a present UNLESS the person has been wanting the pet for a year AND is totally ready for the animal. :(