Just like other rodents, hamsters have a shorter lifespan compare with other pets such as dogs or cats. This is because they mature faster than most animals.
Average lifespan of hamsters by breed
Depending on the breed, the average lifespan of a hamster is two to three years.
- Campbell’s dwarf hamster lifespan: 2 years
- Chinese hamster lifespan: 1.5–2 years
- Roborovski hamster lifespan: 3–3.5 years
- Syrian hamster lifespan: 2–2.5 years
- Winter white dwarf hamster (Russian dwarf hamster) lifespan: 1.5–2 years
Baby hamster growing stages (from birth)
Baby hamsters are born very vulnerable to their surroundings. They came to the world blind and deaf and they are not covered in any fur. Their fur only starts to develop as they reach about five days old. Their eyes start to open when they are two weeks old.
They remain dependent on their mother until they are twenty-one to twenty-eight days old. As soon as they reach this age, it is important to separate them, so each one is kept in their own individual cage if you are not planning to breed them. Hamsters reach sexual maturity as early as four to six weeks old.
Know that Syrian hamsters are likely to fight together when housed in one cage. Dwarf hamsters may be a bit calmer.
Hamster adolescence
Generally, hamsters are sexually mature once they are four to six weeks of age. Males tend to mature faster than females. The ideal age of breeding for females should be at the age of ten weeks. Female hamsters that were bred earlier are likely to have stillborn pups.
At this age, recognise the importance of housing your hamsters separately, especially those that are of the opposite sex. This will help in preventing any unwanted litter. Note that a female hamster can get pregnant within twenty-four hours of birth delivery.
Hamster adulthood
They typically reach their adulthood when they are one year old; however, it also depends on the particular hamster breed. Hamsters are creatures with boundless energy, at this phase, you have a furry companion that is always ready for playtime sessions.
At twelve to fourteen months, female hamsters are likely to develop infertility. However, those who are still fertile at this age are advised against breeding. Females at this age are more prone to health problems in the pelvic and hip areas.
Hamster’s golden years
Just like us, hamsters are more likely to have health issues as they get older. It is important to seek veterinary advice whenever your pets are displaying any unusual behaviours. Ensure that you are feeding them appropriately, keeping their environment dust-free and clean, and showering them with lots of love.
Extend lives of your hamsters
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There are certain factors that affect your hamsters’ quality of life. Ensure that your ageing little furry companions live life to the max. Here are some general pointers to follow:
- Meet their exercise needs
Invest in buying exercise wheels and exercise balls for your hamsters. Letting them roam outside their cage for extended periods of time is another form of exercise. Just be sure to be there to supervise. - Provide them with a larger cage size
Hamsters do not do well when placed in a small cage. It is believed that the smaller the environment they live in, the higher the chances they will get stressed. Ensure that your hamsters are having a big enough space to run around. - Ensure that they are getting quality nutrition
Your pet’s diet plays a significant role in going beyond their average lifespan. Commercial food specifically made for hamsters can be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables.
