Breeding Chinese Hamsters

Chinese hamsters are sexually mature at 8 weeks of age but should not be bred until 4 months of age. Females come into heat (estrus) every 4 days. Female Chinese hamsters can be aggressive towards the males so it is advised to separate immediately after mating.

The gestation period is 18-21 days. A typical litter size is between 4-6 pups.

Pups can be weaned at 21 days at which point they can be separated from their mother.

Guide to dealing with an Unexpected Hamster pregnancy

Breeding Ethics

Due to the over-abundance of animals in rescue centres breeding should be considered very carefully and only undertaken by experienced rodent keepers, who are breeding for the purpose of improving health and temperament with aesthetics as secondary.