Hedgie is 'off'

[pocostef]

I have a hedgie that's well over 5 years old, maybe 6 1/2.

Lately he hasn't been pooping a lot, but when he does (lately in front of me instead of while running) it seems normal. He isn't using his exercise wheel, which is very unusual. However, when I take him out to play he acts normal and energetic. He is also eating much less than usual. He eats from my hand but not from his bowl. Water intake looks normal.

Is this just aging or is he sick/dying from old age? I'm very worried about him. I don't note any weight loss and his skin/fur/quills look fine.

 

[pocostef]

Update: hedgie didn't drink or exercise overnight but he drank and ate when I handled him in the living room. Strange...

 

[pocostef]

Update 2:
I'm trying to get him a vet appointment. Last time the wait list was 3 weeks!

Hedgie now still looks bright but is barely drinking, not exercising, and ate one bite in the last 24 hours.

 

[charlie]

Is he still on hard food? He may need soft food to help with aging teeth. Also, if he is not consuming water, you will need to syringe it asap. He will need at least 20 cc of water a day. If he still isn't eating you can also syringe food (canned A/D available from any vet's office). Also 20 cc/day if possible. Hope you have a vet appointment, liver disease can quickly kick-in if they go off food or water. Keep him hydrated until you can see a vet.

 

[Sugargliderlove]

hows he doing?

 

[pocostef]

Hi there! Hedgie is much improved - he's energetic, eating and drinking. Still not back to exercising, but he looks like a million bucks!

 

[smhufflepuff]

Glad he's eating, drinking, and looking energetic. What do you think helped get him back on his feet?

 

[pocostef]

Just time I guess. He still isn't running much, and today started pooping and peeing WHILE he eats which has never happened before. I think he is so old that he needs Depends diapers. I love my poor little guy; I'll just keep babying him till the end.