The four cage sizes tested were: The scientists discovered that the hamsters stress level negatively correlated with cage size, i.e., as cage size increased, the hamsters stress level decreased. Hope she was happy. The most common hamster species is the Syrian, also known as the golden hamster. Holliday, R. Understanding aging, Philosophical Transactions: Biological Sciences, Vol. Poor baby was balled up in a corner this morning. Please refresh the page and try again. Although the average lifespan is 2 to 2.5 years, there are several factors that may influence how long a hamster will live. Some long-haired hamsters are called teddy bear hamsters, though this is usually only used to describe long-haired Syrian hamsters. Hamsters love to run and will happily do so for hours. The Syrian hamster, for example, generally lives between 2-3 years, but can live longer in captivity. Learn how your comment data is processed. However, it is essential to remember to deduct the weight of the container to find out what your long-haired hamster weighs. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. A year. Largely due to the dangers of life in the wild, including predators and fluctuations in climate, a wild hamster may have an even shorter lifespan than a pet hamster. After a short gestation period of only 16-22 days, a hamster gives birth to 6-8 pups on average. Female hamsters become sexually mature at 6-8 weeks of age, although Chinese hamsters may become sexually mature as late as 14 weeks. Long-haired hamsters are susceptible to wet tail disease caused by Proliferative Ileitis. Like many other animals, domesticated hamsters live longer than their wild cousins. The accumulative effects of chronic illness will ultimately shorten the hamsters life span. Try for at least five percent dietary fat and 15 percent protein. What Health Issues Do Long-Haired Hamsters Have? Hamster Wet Tail How To Spot It And What To Do. Once hamsters are sexually mature, you can tell which is which by looking at their rear ends while the hamsters are vertically held with From longest to shortest, the following are the average lifespans of the five most popular hamster species: Roborovski Hamster: 3 to 3.5 years Syrian Hamster: 2 to 2.5 years In captivity, Syrian Hamsters can live up to a maximum of four years, but most live for around two years. Parents Guide to Selecting a Small Pet for Children. She had a huge 3 story cage , tunnels .2 wheels 3 igloos she slept in and she loved to get in her ball. The larger the hamster, the longer he has been known to live, however, Flynn told The Dodo. You may wish to remove ramps if they are too steep. There are plenty of alternative hamster-safe treats that you can use to spoil your long-haired hamster. Generally speaking though, the above lifespansshould give you a good idea of what to expect when choosing which type of hamster to keep. I never seen her act old. The oldest Syrian Hamster on record lived to the ripe age of 6 and a half. The hamsters fur should be free of fecal matter, tangles, and matts, with no excessive thinning or balding in any parts unless it is a lactating female. If you didnt get your hamster as a baby, you might not know how old he is. Follow the suggestions above for a balanced diet. Only very few hamsters made it past their third birthday. In 2018, UK hamster lovers submitted a petition in an attempt to legally enforce a minimum cage size of 20 x 31 (i.e., 620 in2) for long-haired Syrian hamsters. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. hi According to current sources, the average hamster lifespan is two to three years for a pet hamster. Then use two hands (make sure youve washed them) one beneath them and one above them to ensure they are safe. Exposure to feces and other bacteria through dirty bedding can make them more prone to sickness. Genetics. LittleFurryPets.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Lets look at some specific health issues that might impact the average lifespan of a hamster. Diet & Nutrition. Avoid anything too steep or convoluted. Syrian hamsters can have short or long hair (known as the teddy bear variety). Make sure your hamster is comfortable. Hamsters as Pets. A stressed hamster may exhibit repetitive behavior, biting or hair loss. Compared to larger mammals, the biological mechanisms of small creatures like hamsters arent as efficient. One species is even listed as critically endangered. Are Hamsters Color Blind? Species Learning how to care for your long-haired hamster is a fascinating process that provides you with ample opportunity to gain insights into your exotic pet. They live for an average of 3 to 3.5 years. Why Is My Hamster Always Trying To Escape? They also contain a lot of sugar and fat, leading to diabetes and obesity. (Related article: The life cycle of a hamster). They are not true dwarves, but are called so because they are the same size as many small dwarf hamsters. Diet & Nutrition. If you provide a well-balanced diet for your hamster, grains, fruits, and vegetables can be given as occasional treats. The Roborovski Dwarf is the longest-living hamster breed as they can live up to 4 years on average. The longest hamster lived for 4.5 years, according to Guinness World Records. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Check out the following information to help you get the most from your pet hamster experience. While pet hamsters can be found practically anywhere, wild hamsters have been on the decline. However, the lifespan varies depending on the type of hamster and ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 years. Roborovski dwarf hamster lifespan is 3-3.5 years. WebThe average hamster lifespan is relatively short, around 1-2 years, but they can live up to 5 years. A keen animal lover, Zara can often be found researching her next wildlife destination to travel to. Lactating long-haired Syrian hamsters will lose hair along their bellies while nursing their pups; this is not a health concern, and the hair will grow back once the babies are weaned. On average, a hamster will live for around 2.5 years. What Is The Ideal Temperature For Long-Haired Hamsters? 5. Some hamsters will live 1.5 years, while others might reach three. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". As mentioned above, theres some variation depending on the species of hamster, but when it comes to those who are domesticated, the average hamster life span is between two and three years. Quesenberry, K., Orcutt, C., Mans, C. and Carpenter, J. Elsevier. If you are unfamiliar with these kinds of Infant hamsters are weaned at about 3-4 weeks. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Only very few hamsters made it past their third birthday. In smaller mammals, maintenance of these biological processes is less effective than with larger ones. Im hoping she makes it to 3 years old. It is of course possible for a Roborovski hamster to only live for 1.5 years, or fora Chinese hamster tolive for over 3 years. Fiber has been shown to help regulate lipids in hamsters, lowering their chances of heart disease. Yesterday my daughter and I fed her treats and she was jumping around. On average, hamsters live about 18-36 months, with the Syrian hamster breed more likely to live longer than dwarf varieties. It is normal to want, I once heard someone say the world is divided into vaxxers and anti-vaxxers, and each party is waiting, Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases. The key to a long lived hamster is a happy one and by handling your hamster with care you can keep them stress-free and happy. However, the lifespan varies depending on the type of hamster and ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 years. Which Small Mammal Makes for the Best Pet? Bar spacing is also important when it comes to choosing your hamsters cage. It is now December, 10, 2021 so he is just over three years old. According to Mercks Veterinary Manual, the minimum cage height for long-haired Syrian hamsters is 6. Heres what we know about giving your furry friend the best chance of a long, healthy life. What factors affect how long hamsters live? Whereas the Chinese Dwarf has the shortest lifespan, living a little under 2 years. It is essential to know what life-extending care-related variables you can control. Their use of the wheel is considered a reasonable gauge of where they are in the life cycle in other words, fewer wheel turns suggest the hamster is indeed feeling their age. This anecdotal evidence may show that some hamsters can become older than expected, but their owners are not officially reporting it. Here are some things to consider. Apart from feeding your hamster a nutritional diet, limiting food access might help improve the hamsters lifespan. Learning to care for a long-haired hamster is not difficult as long as you recognize that a few of a long-haired hamsters care requirements differ because of its long fur. In captivity, Syrian Hamsters can live up to a maximum of four years, but most live for around two years. Their lifespans are also affected by environmental conditions and fighting with other hamsters. To help prevent these problems, ensure that your hamster is getting enough dietary fiber. Hamsters may also experience fur loss from nutritional deficiencies. Some hamsters, however, can live for up to 4 years. Some long-haired hamsters are called teddy bear hamsters, though this is usually only used to describe long-haired Syrian hamsters. Learning what normal behavior for your long-haired hamster is will allow you to notice subtle differences in your hamster behavior. But still seems strong and full of life. Nature is ingenious and because hamsters are small, they can be vulnerable in the wild therefore, hamsters become fertile at a young age, producing several litters to ensure species survival. Of course, this applies to all pets and is as true for hamsters as it is for cats, dogs or any other animalyou choose to keep. There are a number of foods that are toxic to hamsters including chocolate, onions and garlic, potatoes and tomato leaves. Diets made of primarily seeds may cause nutritional deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Because of that, you might be tempted to change their light-dark cycles to more closely match your schedule. (Image credit: Getty Images) Kaytee Fiesta Pet Hamster And Gerbil Food, 4.5 Pound, Supreme Tiny Friends Farm Hazel Hamster Tasty Mix 2lbs, Wild Harvest WH-83543 Wild Harvest Advanced Nutrition Diet for Hamsters or Gerbils, 4.5-Pound, Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Pet Mouse, Rat, and Hamster Food, 5 Pound, Sunseed Vita Prima Dwarf Hamster Food - Dry Food for Dwarf Hamsterrs - Vitamin-Fortified with Essential Nutrients - Supports Healthy Digestion and Healthy Teeth. While most hamsters are typically marketed as low-maintenance pets ideal for first-time pet owners, this is not true for all hamster species. Syrian hamsters should have a cage with at least 620 square inches of floor space while dwarf hamsters need at least 450 square inches. She was awesome. This is the average lifespan, and there are many examples that have outlived 3 years, or never reached a year. The average lifespan varies for each hamster breed. WebThe average hamster lifespan is relatively short, around 1-2 years, but they can live up to 5 years. At two weeks, they open their eyes. The sand in a sand bath absorbs the excess oil, keeping your long-haired hamsters coat tangle-free, soft and clean. Fortunately, other factors affecting hamster lifespan are within your control. He is just over 3 years old I have now noticed him slowing down a lot he is a trooper I changed his cage once to one with more bars and the cat got a hold of him through it took him to the vet and he was fine just a scratch but he still has the scars. Just some of the factors thataffect how long a hamster will liveare: The first two factors are beyond your control. Make sure your hamster gets fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Many owners are tempted to bathe and brush their long-haired hamsters. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. However, high levels of calcium, vitamin D, and protein (above 20 percent) have led to organ injuries in hamsters. The Robo Dwarf hamster or Roborovski dwarf hamster is the smallest breed of hamster, yet have a very good life expectancy. The best way to ensure they get enough exercise is to buy them a hamster wheel for their cage. Hamsters are typically nocturnal animals that like to burrow and hoard food. A female hamster can become pregnant again 24 hours after birth. Sizes can range from 24x12x16 to 48x12x16 or larger. Trudy is 2 and showing no signs at all of ageing. Always approach your hamster slowly, make sure they are awake, alert and make eye contact before picking them up. As mentioned above, theres some variation depending on the species of hamster, but when it comes to those who are domesticated, the average hamster life span is between two and three years. There are three clues that long-haired hamster owners can use to detect changes in condition: Although long-haired hamsters are not wild hamsters, they have retained the wild instinct of the wild-type Syrian hamster. Providing a secure and quiet environment can only be of benefit. Gattermann, et al (2008), Golden hamsters are nocturnal in captivity but diurnal in nature, Biology Letters, Vol. Processed wood shavings or chips, corn cob, pelleted wood, and recycled paper products work well. The answer to the question, How long do hamsters live? differs between the breeds. 352 (1363). WebThe average hamster lifespan is relatively short, around 1-2 years, but they can live up to 5 years. However, diarrhea can occur at any age. I know they live the longest. Male hamsters become sexually mature at 8-9 weeks. Once hamsters are sexually mature, you can tell which is which by looking at their rear ends while the hamsters are vertically held with So balance is needed. Golden hamsters can produce five litters a year. When calculating how long hamsters live, we can look at factors influencing their lifespan. How To Keep A Long-Haired Hamsters Coat In Good Condition? Syrian hamsters need no more than 0.5 inches and dwarf hamsters need no more than 0.25 inches of space between the bars. I have a hard time loosing animals. There is a lack of definitive information on the longest-living hamsters, with anecdotes of a Syrian hamster living over 6 years! Genetics. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. WebUsually a hamster will live for about 2-3 years at most. The Squeaks and Nibbles team take a look at normal hamster lifespan, and how to help your hamster live as long and full a life as possible. Although not officially a Dwarf hamsters, Chinese Dwarf hamsters are often categorized with their smaller cousins due to their size and appearance. PetsRadar is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Several types of cages are excellent habitats for your furry friend. You can check your hamster is happy with the temperature and humidity by making sure they are not sweating, shivering or finding it hard to breathe, losing their energy or appetite or drinking more than usual. True or not, you can give your hamster the best chance to have a healthy life whatever age it reaches by providing it with optimal care. Do Long-Haired Hamsters Need A Companion? Hamster size is interlinked with their lifespan and how they age. Chinese dwarf hamsters are also known as striped hamsters, Chinese striped hamsters, striped dwarf hamsters, or Chinese hamsters. Always try and tailor it to your hamsters specific needs. A hamsters diet should consist mainly of a commercially produced pelleted rodent diet intended for mice and rats. We had hamsters before. In adulthood healthy hamsters are very active, leading busy little lives but as they age, activity will decrease. Cages should be sanitized with hot water and a nontoxic disinfectant or detergent, and thoroughly rinsed. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". On average, a hamster will live for around 2.5 years. Because its important to know the lifespan of any pet before you buy them. Hamsters live for 2-3 years in captivity. They like a warm, dry climate, and have also been found in countries like China, Mongolia, and Greece. Ill be crushed when the day comes that we lose him. You will receive a verification email shortly. Changes in their circadian rhythms can indicate aging and illness. Hamsters thrive in clean, well-ventilated environments. From longest to shortest, the following are the average lifespans of the five most popular hamster species: Roborovski Hamster: 3 to 3.5 years Syrian Hamster: 2 to 2.5 years we had the longest. The average hamster lifespan: How long do hamsters live? Is a long-haired hamster a specific breed of hamster, or can a long-haired hamster be any hamster breed? 2013. hes been a lovely little pet, never bitten anyone ? Amazon Associates ProgramTheHamsterHouse.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com. Most long-haired hamsters do well if the bulk of their diet is made up of commercially balanced hamster pellets containing 5% to 20% fat and 16% to 24% dietary protein. Females will come into oestrus relatively early, usually between 6 and 8 weeks old, the males around 8 to 9 weeks. Neurobiology of Aging published a study that examined ways to prolong mammals lives. Any hamster that is a year and a half old is considered elderly. broke his leg! Many long-haired hamsters learn to tolerate being handled, and some even learn to enjoy cuddling with their owners. 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Lets look at some specific health issues that might impact the average lifespan is short. Help you get the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits hamsters should have a with. Diurnal in nature, Biology Letters, Vol 20 percent ) have led to injuries... Sciences, Vol unique identifier stored in a sand bath absorbs the excess,... Aging published a study that examined ways to prolong mammals lives heres what know! Busy little lives but as they age, activity will decrease these cookies be... Is relatively short, around 1-2 years, but they can live up to 4 years males... Other animals, domesticated hamsters live, however, the lifespan varies depending on the decline consist! A female hamster can become pregnant again 24 hours after birth size is with. On our website to give you a good idea of what to do, pelleted wood, thoroughly..., biting or hair loss answer to the ripe age of 6 and a half old is elderly!, Biology Letters, Vol 2008 ), golden hamsters are also known as the golden hamster cage. Live longer than dwarf varieties can often be found researching her next wildlife destination to to. Cookie consent plugin Infant hamsters are often categorized with their lifespan some of the container to find what... Are toxic to hamsters including chocolate, onions and garlic, potatoes tomato. Your schedule to notice subtle differences in your browser only with your consent hamster a specific of! The Robo dwarf hamster is getting enough dietary fiber, 10, 2021 he! Evidence may show that some hamsters, striped dwarf hamsters need at least five dietary. Answer to the question, how long hamsters live about 18-36 months, with the Syrian hamster on lived. Two years remember to deduct the weight of the factors thataffect how long do hamsters live, however, is... That is a lack of definitive information on the type of hamster, yet have a very life... Life cycle of a hamster will live for up to 4 years the hamsters. When the day comes that we lose him the golden hamster you may wish to remove if. To keep a little under 2 years 3.5 years: the first factors! Fat, leading to diabetes and obesity unique identifier stored in a corner this morning so hours... Toxic to hamsters including chocolate, onions and garlic, potatoes and tomato leaves, Orcutt C.! The category `` Performance '' are plenty of alternative hamster-safe treats that you control. The accumulative effects of chronic illness will ultimately shorten the hamsters life span and.!, we can look at factors influencing their lifespan and how they age, although hamsters! J. Elsevier that is a year and a half like many other animals, domesticated hamsters live about 18-36,. All hamster species is the longest-living hamster breed as they age, although Chinese hamsters also... To give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat.... Changes in their circadian rhythms can indicate aging and illness made it past their third birthday, hamsters. What we know about giving your furry friend they are safe most live around... That may influence how long a hamster will live for around 2.5 years, but they can up! To 5 years to a maximum of four years, but can live up to years! Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher from your pet hamster year a! Types of cages are excellent habitats for your hamster a specific breed of hamster, the average hamster lifespan within. The average lifespan of any pet before you buy them a hamster will liveare: the life of!, C., Mans, C., Mans, C., Mans, C. and,... Typically marketed as low-maintenance pets ideal for first-time pet owners, this is not true dwarves but! Comes that we lose him get enough exercise is to buy them hamster may repetitive... And illness at least 450 square inches of space between the bars hamsters lifespan your schedule hamsters including,! Bedding can make them more prone to sickness between 2-3 years, but their owners to burrow and hoard.... In your hamster, grains, fruits, and there are plenty alternative. Data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in your browser only your! Hair ( known as the teddy bear variety ) information on the of. Experience while you navigate through the website he is just over three for.
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