Hamsters are born blind, deaf, and hairless, requiring careful care to survive in their early days. If your pet hamster is pregnant, it’s important to prepare properly to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her babies. The following guide will help you understand how to care for a pregnant hamster from birth to the weaning stage.
Understanding Hamster Pregnancy
Recognizing Pregnancy in Hamsters
A female hamster will show signs of pregnancy such as weight gain, nest-building, food hoarding, and increased aggression as her due date approaches. However, weight gain alone doesn’t confirm pregnancy. It’s essential to observe her behavior closely and, if unsure, consult a veterinarian to rule out other conditions such as tumors or heart problems, which can also cause swelling.
Hamster Reproduction Cycle
Hamsters mature sexually at a very young age, with some capable of breeding by just four weeks old. However, it’s recommended to wait until they are five or six months old before mating. The gestation period varies by breed: Syrian hamsters typically gestate for 16 days, while dwarf breeds take between 18-21 days, and Roborovski hamsters may gestate for up to 30 days.
Preparing for the Birth
Cleaning the Cage
A clean environment is crucial for the birth of the hamster babies. Clean the cage two weeks after determining that your hamster is pregnant. Once she is close to giving birth, avoid cleaning the cage, as this could disturb the mother and cause her to reject her babies. After the birth, avoid cleaning the cage for at least 14 days.
Dietary Adjustments for Pregnant Hamsters
Pregnant hamsters need a diet rich in protein and fat to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Look for hamster food that contains 18-20% protein and 7-9% fat. Nutritious treats like carrots, nuts, hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and greens can also support her health. However, be cautious with perishable items to avoid spoilage.
Remove Potential Hazards
Remove any toys like hamster wheels and other objects that could harm newborn hamsters. Additionally, if the father hamster is still in the cage, it’s best to remove him to avoid any aggressive behavior from the mother. Some dwarf hamster fathers may assist in raising the litter, but it’s advisable to consult with a vet before deciding.
Provide Nesting Material
Provide soft materials such as toilet paper or facial tissue for your hamster to build a nest. Avoid any heavy or long materials that could entangle the babies.
Caring for Baby Hamsters in the First Two Weeks
Do Not Disturb the Nest
For at least two weeks, avoid disturbing the nest or handling the baby hamsters. The mother may reject or harm the babies if she detects an unfamiliar scent or feels threatened. If you need to move a baby, use a spoon to prevent leaving your scent.
Avoid Cleaning the Cage
Though it may seem counterintuitive, do not clean the cage during the first two weeks. The nesting environment is critical for the babies’ survival. If absolutely necessary, perform minimal spot cleaning without disturbing the nest.
Provide Extra Food and Water
Ensure that there is always enough food and water in the cage, checking twice daily. After the first week, you can scatter food around the cage for the mother to collect, and the babies will start to explore and find food on their own. Make sure the water bottle is positioned low enough for the babies to reach after 10-20 days.
Handling Orphaned Baby Hamsters
In the unfortunate event that the mother dies, the babies will require special care, especially if they are under two weeks old. Keep the environment warm by placing a heating pad under the cage. Feed the babies with a milk replacement like Lactol using a dropper. If the babies are older than 12 days, they will have a higher chance of survival.
After Two Weeks: Handling and Weaning Baby Hamsters
Cleaning the Cage
After the babies are two weeks old, you can clean the cage as usual. The mother will be less protective, allowing you to tidy up the environment. Place fresh pieces of tissue or toilet paper in the cage so that the mother can rebuild her nest if needed.
Handling Baby Hamsters
At two weeks old, it’s safe to start handling the babies. This helps them get accustomed to human contact, which will make them easier to manage later on. Just be cautious, as baby hamsters are very quick and agile.
Weaning the Babies
By the time baby hamsters reach four weeks old, they will be ready to be weaned from their mother. They will have been feeding on their mother’s milk, but around 26 days old, they will transition to solid food.
Finding Homes for the Hamster Babies
If you don’t plan to keep the baby hamsters, begin looking for homes once they are ready. You can ask friends, post ads online, or even contact local schools as hamsters make great classroom pets. Never breed hamsters unless you are prepared to care for them and find them proper homes.