Roborovski hamsters (also known as " hamsters") are the longest-lived breed among pet hamsters, with their lifespan influenced by multiple factors:
I. Basic Lifespan Characteristics
The average lifespan is 3 to 3.5 years, with healthy male individuals able to reach 4 years.
A very small number of individuals may live 4 to 5 years under ideal conditions, but there is no authoritative verification of records exceeding 5 years.
II. Key Influencing Factors
Gender Differences
Non-breeding females have a lifespan 1 to 1.5 years shorter than males, and reproduction accelerates aging.
Impact of Breeding
Each litter born may shorten a female hamster’s lifespan by 3 months.
Housing Conditions
The environmental temperature needs to be stabilized between 18-25°C.
A high-protein, low-fat diet should be provided.
The cage must be cleaned at least twice a week.
III. Breed Comparison
Syrian hamsters: average 2-3 years.
Dwarf hamsters: average 1.5-2.5 years.
Roborovski hamsters: lifespan is 1.3-2 times that of ordinary breeds.
Due to their small size (8-10 cm) and sensitive nature, this breed is recommended for keepers with some experience. In their senior years (after 1.5 years of age), it is necessary to supplement vitamins and reduce environmental stress.