How to Breed Roborovski Hamsters

Roborovski or "Robo" hamsters are the smallest species of hamster available as pets. According to the Hamsterific.com website, since Robo hamsters are the smallest and fastest of the pet hamster species, they are not good pets for children. Roborovski hamster females can have an average of six babies (or pups) in one litter, so it's best to find homes for the pups before breeding. Roborovski hamsters generally get along with other Roborovski hamsters, so the mated pair can be kept together.

Things You'll Need

  • 20 gallon or larger aquarium
  • Food dish
  • Hamster den area
  • Water bottle
  • Hamster-safe bedding
  • Veterinarian (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Set up the breeding tank. The aquarium should be at least 20 gallons large with a wire mesh lid. Move the tank to a quiet area away from loud children, televisions or other pets. Make sure there are no drafts and that the tank is not in direct sunlight. Add the food dish, a small den for the mother to hide in and 2 inches of hamster-safe bedding such as aspen wood shavings.

    • 2

      Place the breeding pair in the tank. Roborovski hamsters become sexually mature at five weeks of age, but the RoborovskiHamsters.web website recommends breeding them when they reach four months old. According to Hamsters.co.uk, Roborovskis may be more eager to breed when living in small colonies of several Robo hamsters, preferably one male to a few females. Gestation in Roborovski hamsters varies from 21 to 30 days.

    • 3

      Clean the cage as soon as the mother appears pregnant. The female may not look plump, but will act aggressively towards the male. He will stay on one side of the tank while the female is at the other. If she injures him, you will need to house him in a separate tank. According to Hamsters.co.uk, the female's aggression is an indication that she is near her delivery date.