Hamster Pregnancy Information

Whether you have chosen to breed hamsters or an accidental mating has happened, it is important to be aware of the facts regarding hamster pregnancy. Learning more about what a female hamster goes through during her pregnancy can help you take care of her, and it can help you make her more comfortable.

  1. Time Frame

    • After a successful mating has occurred, hamsters are pregnant for between 15 days and 21 days, though dwarf hamsters have a gestation period that can take up to a month. The female hamster will begin putting on weight within 10 to 18 days after a successful mating. Between four and five days before a litter is expected, the cage should be cleaned out, leaving the hamster's nest alone, as you will be unable to clean the cage while the baby hamsters are very small.

    Size

    • The average size of the litter will depend on the species. Syrian hamsters have litters that average around eight babies, while dwarf hamsters typically produce around six babies. On rare occasions, Syrian hamsters can produce more than 20 babies while dwarf hamsters can produce more than 14 babies.

    Prevention

    • Hamster pregnancy is best prevented by keeping male and female hamsters apart. While a female hamster is safe while she is pregnant, she can become pregnant again almost immediately after giving birth, the male should be removed unless further litters are desirable.

    Preparation

    • Before the babies arrive, provide the mother with ample nesting material and bedding so that she can prepare a soft place for her baby. She should have plenty of fresh food and water available. Both during her pregnancy and while she is nursing, the hamster will need extra protein. Provide her with nuts, hard boiled eggs and sunflower seeds to keep her strength up.

    Risks

    • Female hamsters that are stressed during their pregnancy or by their surroundings may eat their babies after they give birth. To prevent this from happening, keep the cage in a dark quiet room, and make no attempt to handle the new babies for the first week.