How long do hamsters generally live? How to make hamsters live longer

The most fearful thing about raising a hamster is separation. Hamsters do not live long, but we all hope that they can stay with us for a longer time. How long can hamsters live? What can be done to make it live longer? Today we’ll talk about hamster lifespan and ways to extend it.

How long does a hamster generally live?

Life span of different varieties

The lifespan of a hamster varies by breed. Dwarf hamsters (third line, first line, old man) have a lifespan of about 1.5-2.5 years, and third line hamsters live longer. The golden bear (Syrian hamster) has a lifespan of about 2-3 years, and can live up to 3.5 years with good care. Wild hamsters have a shorter life span, while domestic hamsters have a relatively longer life span due to sufficient food and no natural predators.

Factors affecting lifespan

The lifespan of a hamster is affected by many factors such as genes, diet, environment, and care. The life span of hamsters of the same species may differ by one year if they are well-raised or poorly raised. Therefore, even if hamsters are born with a short lifespan, their lifespan can be extended through scientific breeding.

How to make hamsters live longer?

1. Provide enough space

A cage that is too small is an invisible killer that shortens a hamster’s lifespan. Insufficient space leads to insufficient exercise, increased stress, and decreased immunity. Cages should be at least 60 x 40 cm for dwarf hamsters and 80 x 50 cm for golden bears. Large space is the foundation of health.

2. Scientific diet

Choose professional hamster food for staple food, which is nutritionally balanced. Appropriate supplement of protein (boiled protein, mealworms) and fresh fruits and vegetables. Do not feed humans snacks or foods high in sugar and salt. Obese hamsters who eat a varied but not excessive diet have a shorter life span.

3. Keep the environment clean

A dirty environment breeds bacteria and hamsters are prone to illness. Do routine maintenance every day, with regular spot cleaning and a full cleaning every 2-3 weeks. A clean cage is the first line of defense against disease.

4. Reduce stress

Stress is the invisible enemy of your hamster’s health. Do not close the cage, do not move the cage frequently, do not scare the hamster loudly, and do not forcefully wake it up during the day. A quiet and stable environment makes hamsters feel good and have strong immunity.

5. Proper exercise

A running wheel is a must-have for hamsters to exercise. Hamsters will run several kilometers every night. Make sure the running wheels are the right size and run smoothly. You can also let the hamster out to move around in a safe area to increase the amount of exercise.

6. Keep warm

The suitable temperature for hamsters is 20-28 degrees. Keep warm in winter to prevent pseudo-hibernation. Pseudo-hibernation is very harmful to hamsters, and each time they hibernate, their lifespan will be shortened. Pay attention to cooling down in summer to prevent heat stroke.

7. Observe your health regularly

Observe the hamster’s mental state, appetite, and defecation every day. If abnormalities are discovered, they should be dealt with in a timely manner so that minor illnesses do not become serious ones. Regularly check whether the teeth are too long, the hair is healthy, and the eyes are bright.

8. Raising alone

Caging is one of the main causes of unnatural death of hamsters. Injuries from fights and chronic stress can shorten lifespan. One cage per cage is the safest and most natural way to raise hamsters.

Hamster geriatric care

Hamsters enter their old age after one and a half years old, and their activity levels decrease, their hair becomes sparse, and their appetite may decrease. Elderly hamsters need special care: the food should be softened to make it easier to chew, the cage layout should be simplified to reduce climbing, and warmth preservation measures should be strengthened. Spend more time with and observe more, so that your hamster can spend its old age peacefully.

Related reading

• Hamster diet
• Hamster Keeps Warm
• Hamster cohabitation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the record for the longest lifespan of a hamster?

The longest lifespan recorded for domesticated hamsters is about 4 years, but this is a very small number. Most hamsters have a lifespan of 2-3 years, and scientific breeding can approach the upper limit.

How to tell when a hamster is old?

Hamsters enter old age after one and a half years old, and are characterized by reduced activity, sparse hair, decreased appetite, and slower reactions. Older hamsters require special care.

Although hamsters have a short lifespan, they deserve to be treated well every day. With scientific feeding and careful companionship, your hamster will surely live a long and healthy life. If you want to know more about hamster raising, welcome to follow Hamster Nest!