My hamster is currently suffering from cancer, it started suddenly last week when a lump grew on her chest. As soon as I realised on Friday, I took her down to the vets and got all the standard questions. She was eating and drinking ok, she was attempting to get some exercise etc. and the vet concluded it is probably cancerous but she's ok for now.

But a few days on, and she's rapidly deteriorating. The lump has grown, she sleeps more than usual, she can no longer hold her food because she simply can't reach her mouth anymore, she seems to have lost the use of her back left leg, her left eye doesn't open and whereas she was previously quite overweight, I reckon she's lost about a quarter of her body weight, she's so thin. But she is still eating and drinking.

Should I take her down to the vets again and put her out of her misery? It's so sad to see her so weak, but I hate the thought of losing her.

To be frank, it isn't about you. Where my animals have been concerned I have always tried to go by the rule, of better a day too early than a day too late. We have the gift of not having to let them suffer.

It's so very hard. We had to have a hamster pts at 9 months old due to a cancerous lump too, so I do know how you are feeling.

I'm sure you will do the right thing and you will know when the time is absolutely right.

All the best x

OP it really is about judging her quality of life. Do you think (even though she is still eating & drinking) that she is content? Does her eye and leg upset her in any way? If the answer is no to the former and yes to the latter, I would consider letting your hamster go before she gets worse.

I know it's a hard decision, I had my cat Charlie PTS due to a long standing illness last Oct, but you have to think what is the best thing you can do for your pet.

At the end of an animals life the last loving act we can do is PTS the vet can better advise you if this is the time, but sadly it does sound from what you say as if she is at the end.

You will lose her some time and if she isn't eating it sounds to me like her time has come. It's far better to regret her passing than to regret not only that but you also hung on too long before doing that final trip to the vets. If you go too early they will tell you.

Sorry but this is one of the unfortunate bits of having a pet - they don't live as long as we do.

Thanks for the advice.

I think I will call the vets today to make an appointment, she's only got worse. Both her back legs have given up now, the only time she's awake is when I go to check on her, then she drags herself back to bed. She just seems tired really, all her energy has gone.

I know you do what is best for her thats what all us animal lovers do.