Gestation of Black Bear Hamsters

The black bear hamster is a kind of Syrian hamster. It can have long or short hair and is always black. This hamster is solitary creature that interacts only during mating; both males and females will fight if they are not separated by 6 to 8 weeks of age. Once the mating is over, the female will find a den or nesting spot to give birth and will rear the pups on her own.

  1. Gestation Period

    • The gestation period for black bear hamsters is relatively short compared with other hamsters. Once the female successfully mates, she will be ready to deliver in 16 days. About 4 days before the black bear hamster gives birth, the belly will become noticeably larger. At this time, remove wheels and toys from the cage and provide clean bedding.

    Gestation and Lactating Diet

    • During the gestation and lactating period, female black bear hamsters need much more nutrients than usual. During this time, hobbyist and breeders opt to feed the mother additional sources of protein and vitamins in the form of boiled and scrambled eggs, tofu, cheese and veggies along with her regular diet. Milk is not beneficial to lactating mothers and should not be fed during this time.

    Caring for the Pups

    • The black bear hamster is capable of birthing her pups on her own, and most likely will not need any additional help while giving birth. Pups are born blind and naked, making them totally dependent upon the mother for warmth and nutrition. Newborn pups weigh only 2 or 3 grams. Although still blind at 10 days after birth, the pups will start exploring the cage. At this time, scatter some hamster food and carrots and broccoli to help give them a good nutritional start.

    Day 14 to 28

    • By day 14, the pups should have their eyes open and safe to handle, but be gentle because their bones are still soft at this point. Before cleaning the cage for the first time since the birth, handle the mother to get her scent on you before handling the pups. Once the mother and pups are in a safe container, continue to clean the cage as normal. When setting up the cage make sure the pups can find food and reach the water source. By day 28 the pups are ready to be placed in single-sex cages to prevent early breeding.