What to Do When a Hamster Is Born

Two to four weeks after a hamster becomes pregnant, she gives birth to a litter of pups. Baby hamsters and recent mothers require extra attention, food and water. However, interfering with a new mother's cage or nest often causes confusion for the mother and may result in the baby hamster's death.

  1. Before Birth

    • Pregnant hamsters typically require a clean cage and adequate nesting materials. If possible, care for your hamster before she gives birth. Several days before your hamster gives birth, clean the cage thoroughly. Insert soft materials like several sheets of toilet paper or one sheet of paper towels.

    First 10 Days

    • When the expectant mother gives birth, the mother needs rest. Typically, the mother consumes the afterbirth and cares for her pups. If you touch or move baby hamsters during the first week after birth, the mother becomes confused and may hurt or eat the baby. During the first 10 days after birth, leave the cage undisturbed. Do not clean the cage or move any objects into it, unless the water bottle leaks. If water leaks or the cage floods, immediately dry the cage and replace the bedding. Add extra food pellets to the cage and change the water as frequently as possible. If the pups lack food or water, the mother often kills the pups to limit the pain of starvation.

    Two to Four Weeks

    • After two weeks, the young hamster grows hair and opens his eyes. While pups consume mostly breast milk, young hamsters consume soft foods like grated vegetables or bread. Two weeks after birth, the cage typically grows very dirty. Before you clean the cage, move the entire nest to a temporary cage. Move the mother with her babies to avoid causing anxiety. After cleaning, place the entire nest back into the cage. If desired, touch or play with the hamsters for short periods.

    After Four Weeks

    • At four weeks old, hamsters consume a normal diet and drink water from the bottle. Hamsters fare best when they remain together for the first five weeks of their life. After five weeks, separation causes no serious problems. If hamsters fight or engage in conflicts, separate them. If you wish to avoid hamster mating, separate the males and females when hamsters reach eight weeks of age.