The number of pups per litter in hamsters is influenced by factors such as breed, age, and living conditions. Here are the specific details:
I. Differences Among Major Breeds
Syrian Hamsters (Golden Hamsters)
They typically give birth to 4–12 pups per litter, with extreme cases reaching 14.
Dwarf Hamsters
Campbell’s Dwarf Hamsters: 1–10 pups per litter, commonly 3–7.
Roborovski Hamsters: 1–6 pups per litter.
II. Breeding Characteristics
First Litter Size
The first litter is usually smaller (1–4 pups), while subsequent litters can have 5–8 pups.
Extreme Cases
There are records of a single litter with up to 14 pups, but the survival rate is low.
Survival Rate
Litters of seven pups have an average survival period of only 18 days, with a survival rate of less than 30%.
III. Key Influencing Factors
Mother’s Condition
Healthy mother hamsters with adequate nutrition produce more pups.
First-time mothers, due to inexperience, have a lower survival rate for their pups.
Environmental Requirements
The nesting area temperature must be stable at 24–26°C to improve survival rates.
Disturbing the mother hamster should be avoided, as it may trigger cannibalism of the pups.
Note: Inbreeding can cause health issues in offspring, so it’s recommended to separate them into different cages promptly.