Hamster breeding involves several key stages. Below is a detailed process and precautions:
I. Breeding Preparation
Sexual Maturity Timeline
Hamsters reach sexual maturity at 2-3 months of age (males mature slightly earlier than females).
Female hamsters have an estrous cycle of 3-4 days, with each estrus period lasting approximately 1.5 days. Signs include tail-lifting and secretion of a musky-smelling discharge.
Mating Principles
Prioritize same-breed breeding (e.g., Winter White Dwarf Hamsters, Syrian Hamsters).
Cross-breeding between different breeds may result in deformed offspring or stillbirths (e.g., Roborovski Hamsters and Syrian Hamsters).
II. Mating Process
Step-by-Step Procedure
First introduce the male hamster to the environment to allow adaptation, then add the estrous female (to avoid territorial conflicts).
During mating, the male mounts the female, and the process lasts 30-60 minutes.
Signs of Successful Mating
A white copulatory plug appears in the female's genital area (forms 1-2 hours after mating).
Separate the hamsters immediately after mating to prevent the female from attacking the male or repeated mating.
III. Pregnancy and Birth
Gestation Period
Females show visible signs of pregnancy 20-21 days after conception. The gestation period ranges from 23-30 days (varies by breed).
Provide a high-protein diet (e.g., mealworms, boiled eggs) and a constant temperature environment of 25°C.
Birth Management
Litter size ranges from 1-12 pups (Syrian Hamsters average 8 pups, dwarf hamsters average 4 pups).
Females give birth at night. Maintain absolute quiet after birth and avoid touching the pups.
IV. Pup Care
Weaning Age
Pups start eating solid food at 3-4 weeks and are fully weaned by 6-8 weeks.
Lactating females need additional protein supplementation (e.g., mealworms).
Cage Separation Timing
Separate pups by gender after one month to prevent inbreeding.
Females should rest for 2-3 months after giving birth before breeding again.
V. Precautions
Health Risks: Frequent breeding shortens a female's lifespan (1-2 litters per lifetime is recommended).
Abnormality Handling: If a female experiences dystocia or abandons her pups, isolate her promptly and provide artificial assistance.
Diabetes Prevention: For Campbell's Dwarf Hamsters, control their diet (focus on low-fat grains).