Information on Young and Newborn Hamsters

Hamsters belong to the rodent order and the subfamily known as Cricetinae. There are 25 different species of hamsters, most of which exist in the wild, though a handful of species are kept in captivity as pets. The most common pet hamsters are Syrian hamsters and dwarf hamsters, which are sometimes known as Russian hamsters.

  1. Types

    • Different species of hamsters have different breeding processes. Dwarf hamsters are sociable hamsters that work well in groups and can begin to breed at between 60 and 90 days of age. Some dwarf hamsters can breed again as soon as within 24 hours of birthing a litter. Syrian hamsters are sexually mature earlier, and can typically breed at approximately 28 days old. The Syrian hamster has the shortest gestation period with a length of only 15 to 17 days, where as the dwarf hamster's gestation period is between 18 and 30 days.

    Characteristics

    • A litter can vary from one to 20 hamsters, though the average litter size is five to eight. Newborn hamsters are born with their eyes closed and no fur. They are unable to see and hear, but their sense of smell is already fully developed and they are capable of moving around using their front feet. The newborn hamsters, called pups, will have a coat of soft fur at 2 weeks of age, and will be old enough to explore the habitat by 3 weeks of age. Between 3 and 4 weeks of age, the pups will be old enough to venture out on their own.

    Care

    • When newborn hamsters are present, you should not disturb the nest for as long as possible. The mother hamster will be defensive over her litter, but may abandon any babies that you tamper with so it is vital not to touch the pups. The mother hamster will be completely responsible for her pups and should not need human intervention except in emergencies. You should not disturb the pups until they are at least 2 weeks of age. By the time they reach 21 to 28 days of age, they can leave the nest and you should separate the pups based on gender at this time.

    Pup Separation

    • By the time Syrian hamsters are ready to leave the nest, they may be sexually mature and must be separated based on gender. Additionally, Syrian hamsters are not sociable, and males may be aggressive toward one another. Observe male Syrian hamster pups at this age to ensure that there is no territorialism or aggression. If they exhibit these signs, keep them in their own separate enclosures.

    Warning

    • Many hamsters can breed again within as little as 24 hours from giving birth. The father hamster and any other male hamsters should be removed from the habitat when the female begins to give birth. Do not reintroduce the male hamster into the cage while the pups are being raised. You should not house a male and female together unless you intend for breeding to occur. You should only breed your hamsters intentionally if you have plans in place for the pups.