Any hamster that is a year and a half old is considered elderly, she said, and how much your hamster shows his or her age will depend on a number of things, including their individual personality and energy level. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help your hamster live a healthy, fulfilling life.
Meanwhile, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add the barley. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, drain, and set aside. When the soup is ready, add the barley and cook the soup for another 15 or 20 minutes, until the barley is tender.
Basic Cooked Barley. 1 cup barley 3 cups water or stock 1/2 tsp of salt (only if you aren't using stock, which is salted already!) Bring water/stock, barley and salt to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook for 45 minutes, or until tender and the liquid is absorbed. Give the grains a fluff with a fork before serving.