Pregnant Dwarf Hamster Behavior

Dwarf hamsters are small, charming creatures that are extremely popular as pets. Keeping a group of hamsters together almost inevitably results in hamster pregnancy. Hamster owners should always be prepared for the behavior and needs of pregnant dwarf hamsters and their babies.

  1. Dwarf Hamster Basics

    • Dwarf hamsters are miniature hamsters that are easily trained, friendly and make good pets, but are nervous and tend to escape. Like all rodents, they breed quickly and can over-run their living quarters in a relatively short period of time if care isn't taken to keep the sexes separate.

    Behavior and Physical Signs

    • About 10 days after she's bred, a pregnant dwarf hamster begins to grow round and show enlarged nipples. She will still be friendly and affectionate at this point--and should receive her fair share of attention. She will want to be alone for the last several days before the birth.

    Gestation

    • Dwarf hamsters have a gestation period of only 16 days. They spend this time nesting and preparing a chosen area for their upcoming labor. The pregnant female will likely gather materials from around the cage to form a nest, so consider giving her a paper towel or napkin to nest with. Because dwarf hamsters are nocturnal, the birth usually takes place at night.

    Care

    • Give a pregnant dwarf hamster a consistent supply of water and high-protein food. Although most dwarf hamsters are social, other adult hamsters can cause trouble for babies. Many people choose to give a pregnant dwarf hamster a cage of her own at this time--if you decide to, make sure you relocate the mother and give her time to settle before the babies are born.

    After the Birth

    • Mother hamsters keep their hairless, sightless babies hidden for their first few days. Especially in the first 36 hours, a mother hamster's behavior is jealous and protective. She will not allow anyone around the babies, and will kill any babies that are touched by humans. It's safe to handle babies once they're up and out of the nest.