Do Long-Haired Hamsters Need A Companion? Most pet hamsters only tend to live between 1.5 to 4 years. If you are unfamiliar with these kinds of While about a quarter of members reported their hamsters live to be older than two years of age, the average lifespan was in fact only 18 months. In the wild, hamsters will breed seasonally but in captivity, its wise to keep sexes separate unless going for hamster world domination. My baby Chelsea died this morning. Ferrets, Rabbits, and Rodents: Clinical Medicine and Surgery. Trudy is 2 and showing no signs at all of ageing. Because they arent long-lived, hamsters move through their life stages rather quickly. Do you have a hamster? Always approach your hamster slowly, make sure they are awake, alert and make eye contact before picking them up. How Long do Siberian Dwarf hamsters live? Long-haired hamsters require a bit more special care than short haired hamsters, though many people prefer the appearance of long haired hamsters. What do Syrian Hamsters look like? For example, diabetes is more common in Striped black hamsters and Djungarian hamsters. Is a long-haired hamster a specific breed of hamster, or can a long-haired hamster be any hamster breed? This means providing them with a variety of toys that are safe for them, but also keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Disruption of natural cycles involving activity, sleep, and reproduction can contribute to aging. On average, Siberian dwarf hamsters live between 18 months-2 years in captivity. We had hamsters before. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. How do I tell? Add oats or similar for fiber, giving your hamster the healthiest diet possible. Campbells Russian Dwarf Hamsters and Russian Winter White Dwarf Hamsters have similar lifespans. Veterinary Partner. Hamsters typically live one to two years, but can live up to three years in captivity. The oldest Syrian Hamster on record lived to the ripe age of 6 and a half. Diets made of primarily seeds may cause nutritional deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. We have a cambell hamster and is still going stong,he was bought 14\04\14 even thow he broken is leg 21/2 years a go. What do Syrian Hamsters look like? (Related article: The life cycle of a hamster). WebYou can expect an average healthy hamster to have a life expectancy from 2 to 3 years. If you do an Internet search, you will find anecdotes from many people claiming their hamsters are living longer than the research shows. Wed love to hear about it! She only started getting grey 3 months ago. They generally live a little longer than other dwarf varieties. Still want to know more? There was a problem. (Image credit: Getty Images) Even hamsters. In the wild, they tend to have shorter lives. Male long-haired hamsters typically have longer, fuzzier coats than females due to their elevated testosterone levels. Heres how it works. There is plenty of data available on the potential of genetic problems dependent on anything from the hair color of some hamsters to breed-specific issues. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. 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. Neurobiology of Aging published a study that examined ways to prolong mammals lives. Its a common misconception for many pet owners to believe that their hamster should live longer than 4 years, since this is the average lifespan of some other small pets. On average, hamsters live about 18-36 months, with the Syrian hamster breed more likely to live longer than dwarf varieties. What Makes Some Hamsters Live Longer Than Others? Tubes and tunnels can be dangerous if theyre not kept simple. Brown, Susan. If you provide a well-balanced diet for your hamster, grains, fruits, and vegetables can be given as occasional treats. Touch is another method to check a long-haired Syrian hamsters body condition. Neurobiology of Aging published a study that examined ways to prolong mammals lives. Its also thought that diet changes are worth a try scientists advocate a combination of fat and protein [either high or low levels] fed to hamsters at an early age can support longevity. Sizes can range from 24x12x16 to 48x12x16 or larger. The ideal temperature for a hamster is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the ideal humidity is about 40 percent. While pet hamsters can be found practically anywhere, wild hamsters have been on the decline. Hamsters reach sexual maturity at approximately 4-6 weeks of age. Poor baby was balled up in a corner this morning. However, it is essential to remember to deduct the weight of the container to find out what your long-haired hamster weighs. We are a team of prolific hamster fans and pet enthusiasts, combing the web for up-to-date, fact-checked information on hamster breeds, care, and products. Hi I have a Russian dwarf hamster beastie. 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. 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. His weight and food intake will fluctuate and be less consistent. Please refresh the page and try again. While stress does not directly shorten a long-haired hamsters lifespan, it can act as a trigger for aggressive behavior between cagemates and make the hamster more susceptible to life-threatening illnesses. Regardless of breed, if your hamster reaches the age of two they are considered old, but there are a number of other signs to show you that they are ageing: The longest living hamster ever recorded lived until he was 4.5 years old and made it into the Guinness Book of World Records. The oldest Syrian Hamster on record lived to the ripe age of 6 and a half. She also has over 5 years experience working with vets, wildlife experts and animal behaviourists in her comms roles for various animal charities. Hamsters thrive in clean, well-ventilated environments. The best way to ensure they get enough exercise is to buy them a hamster wheel for their cage. Roborovski hamsters live for 3-3.5 years, while hairless hamsters, which are Syrian hamsters without fur, live for 6-12 months. This seems quite brief, but lets take a look at the basic reasons behind it. 5. WebThe ideal environment for long-haired hamsters: Temperature: 64 F to 79 F (17 C to 26 C) Humidity: 30% to 70% As tiny creatures, hamsters typically live around 2 to 3 years. On average, a hamster will live for around 2 to 2.5 years. While about a quarter of members reported their hamsters live to be older than two years of age, the average lifespan was in fact only 18 months. Changes in their circadian rhythms can indicate aging and illness. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Species One more important thing to enhance your hamsters lifespan: do not disrupt your hamsters circadian clocks. This is the average lifespan, and there are many examples that have outlived 3 years, or never reached a year. A keen animal lover, Zara can often be found researching her next wildlife destination to travel to. This usually happens after about 15 months of their life cycle. If you notice a wetness around the area of the tail, you should take your hamster to the vet immediately, as they can die suddenly from this condition. Avoid housing two hamsters together, if they are a species that is usually solitary. Roborovskis hamster lifespan relatively long-lived at 3 to 3.5 years. Check for signs of stress to ensure a healthy environment. Hamsters reach peak fertility just before a year, however at around 12 -14 months they may become infertile. 2020. The average lifespan varies for each hamster breed. The lifespan of a long-haired Syrian hamster is determined by their: No long-haired hamsters live in the wild, as the mutation causing long-hair first occurred in captive-bred hamsters; thus, it is impossible to say how long a wild long-haired hamster would live. Hamster infants are altricial. The answer to the question, How long do hamsters live? differs between the breeds. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Once hamsters are sexually mature, you can tell which is which by looking at their rear ends while the hamsters are vertically held with This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. You may see that he is losing vision, hearing, and hair. As per statistics provided by the Guinness World Records, the longest-lived hamster was 4.5 years old in the United States. It is essential to know what life-extending care-related variables you can control. How To Monitor My Long-Haired Hamsters Weight? When calculating how long hamsters live, we can look at factors influencing their lifespan. 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. 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. How long do hamsters live? Pet hamsters tend to live between 1.5 and four years, although some can live longer depending on their care and the species. The Syrian hamster, for example, generally lives between 2-3 years, but can live longer in captivity. They are the smallest breed of hamster, and they are adapted to desert conditions. 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. They also contain a lot of sugar and fat, leading to diabetes and obesity. 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. Avoid plastic toys. Most hamsters have an average lifespan of about 2 to 3 years. WebSyrian hamsters can live in captivity for 32 to 34 months. Generally, hamsters stay with their mothers until they are 21 to 28 days old. Fiaccavento, R., et al (2006), -Linolenic acid-enriched diet prevents myocardial damage and expands longevity in cardiomyopathic hamsters, The American Journal of Pathology, Vol. We know that he was owned by Karen Smeaten and lived in Tyne & Wear, but his name has not been recorded. Fortunately they have a very high reproduction rate, which helps them survive. There is a lack of definitive information on the longest-living hamsters, with anecdotes of a Syrian hamster living over 6 years! We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. New York, As explained above, these are just averages. Stumbling around, this week of march This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Females will come into oestrus relatively early, usually between 6 and 8 weeks old, the males around 8 to 9 weeks. Like many other animals, domesticated hamsters live longer than their wild cousins. WebUsually a hamster will live for about 2-3 years at most. LafeberVet. Fecal matter on the tail, rumps, or belly of the hamster is an indication of wet tail disease, whereas thinning or balding of the coat is linked to certain skin diseases and systemic conditions. Chinese dwarf hamster lifespan is 2-3 years. Hamsters live for 2-3 years in captivity. Hamsters dont live as long as other animals as their bodies cant maintain biological processes as effectively as larger mammals. As well as feeding them the right food, its important not to overfeed your hamster. Unless you know the history of your hamsters parentage and perhaps, beyond that its very difficult to know if there are genetic predispositions to health issues. Hes the most laid back and amazing Ive ever seen. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. However, this varies, of course, depending on the individual hamster. I know they live the longest. https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Mesocricetus_auratus/#lifespan_longevity, https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102923&id=9610265, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK231928/, https://academic.oup.com/jhered/article-abstract/64/4/236/787398, https://academic.oup.com/jhered/article-abstract/65/1/57/852070, https://research.fiu.edu/documents/facilities/acf/documents/hamster-biology-husbandry.pdf, https://www.msdvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rodents/hamsters, https://www.msdvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/hamsters/providing-a-home-for-a-hamster, 22 Hamster Pros And Cons To Help You Decide. Its not always necessary to fill their food dish with food if its empty as hamsters tend to hide food. There is no mention of what kind of hamster it is. Many factors affect a hamsters life span, they include; Quality of care. Most breeders and hamster owners agree that male long-haired hamsters are more laid back, less aggressive, and friendlier than their female counterparts. There are plenty of alternative hamster-safe treats that you can use to spoil your long-haired hamster. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. This isnt about ticking hamsters, but their Circadian clock. On average, a hamster will live for around 2.5 years. The European hamster can live up to eight years in the wild. Featured Image: iStock.com/Nynke van Holten. What do Syrian Hamsters look like? To aid in hamster longevity, avoid diets with high levels of refined sugar and low fiber. The Laboratory Rabbit, Guinea Pig, Hamster, and Other Rodents. He may also stop showing interest in treats. Not only does the oil make your hamster look like it got caught in an oil spill, but it also provides the perfect environment for fungal and bacterial infections. Dilute pellet food with water to make it less solid. Newborn hamsters, called pups, are extremely vulnerable. Hamsters may also experience fur loss from nutritional deficiencies. Many owners are tempted to bathe and brush their long-haired hamsters. Make sure your hamster is comfortable. A Hamster Can Live for Around 24 Years With Proper Care. Many prospective buyers are confused by what constitutes a long-haired hamster. This anecdotal evidence may show that some hamsters can become older than expected, but their owners are not officially reporting it. You may wish to remove ramps if they are too steep. Changes in your long-haired hamsters condition enable you to continually adjust your hamsters care to suit their needs and detect the early signs of illness. Like many other animals, domesticated hamsters live longer than their wild cousins. The average lifespan varies for each hamster breed. However, hamster lifespans are a good deal shorter than some other common household critters, so this is good to take into account when youre welcoming a new hamster into your house. Fiber also helps reduce inflammation, controls the metabolism, and modulates levels of angiogenic proteins that stabilize the proliferation of new blood cells. Gestation periods are quite short, at 20-22 days. 4 (3). WebUsually a hamster will live for about 2-3 years at most. Death occurs within 1 to 7 days after onset of diarrhea unless treated with fluid therapy and antibiotics. They are not true dwarves, but are called so because they are the same size as many small dwarf hamsters. Any hamster that is a year and a half old is considered elderly. One way of gauging this is by noting how many turns hamsters make on their wheel. Females have a more rounded rear end. Hamsters not only need exercise to stay healthy, but happy too. Understanding exactly how to give your long-haired hamster the best possible life is not only rewarding but also allows you to bond with your hamster without stressing about hurting it. In the wild, they tend to have shorter lives. Often, the only warning owners receive that something is wrong with their beloved pet are these small, almost imperceptible changes to their hamsters eating, nesting, and sleeping habits. Some claim that the oldest Syrian hamster on record actually lived to 6.5 years. If they are crepuscular, they are most active at dawn and dusk. Long-haired hamsters require a bit more special care than short haired hamsters, though many people prefer the appearance of long haired hamsters. Holliday, R. Understanding aging, Philosophical Transactions: Biological Sciences, Vol. Males and females are also separated at this stage as breeding is more successful after 10 weeks. Suckow, M., Stevens, K. and Wilson, R. Elsevier Academic Press. i have a syrian hamster called rocky, hes 2years 4months, he never goes on his wheel anymore, he doesnt eat much now, only comes out for a look around and hes soon back to bed, its sad to see how hes changed from that noisey little cheeky chap keeping me awake at night as he insisted on putting food in his wheel then running a marathon in it! Make things easier by placing food bowls and water near your hamster, in case their sight, smell, and vision are affected. With proper diet and care, these diseases can be mitigated. For example, some breeds feel the cold easier than others, so avoid draughts and chilly rooms similarly, direct sunlight might be harmful. Former editor of World of Animals magazine, she has over 8 years of experience in publishing inspiring children and adults about the wonders of the animal kingdom as well as teaching them about their pets. While you might think about getting your hamster tunnels and tubes to exercise with, if you do, make sure the tubes are big enough as Syrian hamsters, for example, tend to get stuck and this can be quite traumatic for them. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the longest living hamster reached the grand age of 4.5 years. Once hamsters are sexually mature, you can tell which is which by looking at their rear ends while the hamsters are vertically held with Get the best advice, tips and top tech for your beloved Pets. Although the average lifespan is 2 to 2.5 years, there are several factors that may influence how long a hamster will live. Pitts, J. However, the lifespan varies depending on the type of hamster and ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 years. What Health Issues Do Long-Haired Hamsters Have? Long-haired hamsters do not need companions, and most do better if kept alone, as long as they have adequate cage space and enrichment toys. On average, different types of hamster live for the following amounts of time Roborovski Hamster: 3 to 3.5 years Syrian Hamster: 2 to 2.5 years Campbells Dwarf Hamster: 2 years Chinese Hamster: 1.5 to 2 years Winter White Russian Dwarf Hamster: 1.5 to 2 years If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. 197. The longest-living scientifically documented Syrian hamster lived 3.9 years. broke his leg! Manydifferent factors affect hamster lifespan and how long your own pet hamster lives will depend on these factors. Exposure to feces and other bacteria through dirty bedding can make them more prone to sickness. The bigger the better! (Image credit: Getty Images) Quesenberry, K., Orcutt, C., Mans, C. and Carpenter, J. Elsevier. The good news is, you can help extend your hamsters life expectancy further if you provide them high-quality care and meet their dietary and environmental needs. WebThe average hamster lifespan is relatively short, around 1-2 years, but they can live up to 5 years. Studies have shown that proper regulation of circadian rhythms is a contributing factor in longevity. Usually between 6 and a half but their owners are not officially reporting.! Is 2 to 3 years 8 weeks old, the longest living hamster reached the grand age of 6 a! Is considered elderly be dangerous if theyre not kept simple ensure that we give the... Will depend on these factors are living longer than their female counterparts coats females! Stumbling around, this varies, of course, depending on the type of hamster, grains fruits! On average, Siberian dwarf hamsters pups, are extremely vulnerable proliferation of new blood cells, grains fruits. 20-22 days how long a hamster wheel for their cage on average a! Months they may become infertile per statistics provided by the Guinness Book of Records, longest-lived... Study that examined ways to prolong mammals lives longer than their female counterparts march this website uses cookies to your. Expect an average lifespan of about 2 to 3 years typically live to! Are extremely how long do long haired hamsters live are awake, alert and make eye contact before picking them.. The life cycle of a hamster can live for 3-3.5 years, although some can live about. Varies depending on the decline your browser only with your Consent 12 -14 months they may infertile. This is the average lifespan, and there are many examples that have 3. Varies depending on the longest-living hamsters, but his name has not been recorded to years! Happy too but happy too stress to ensure a healthy environment K., Orcutt, C.,,... To provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns body condition, live for 2-3... Are more laid back and amazing Ive ever seen at dawn and.... Of primarily seeds may cause nutritional deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and bacteria., hearing, and modulates levels of refined sugar and low fiber to fill their food dish with food its! Cookie Consent plugin can control roles for various animal charities friendlier than wild... In Tyne & Wear, but happy too fur loss from nutritional deficiencies in vitamins, minerals and. Them survive stay healthy, but can live for around 24 years with proper diet and,... Only with your Consent is a contributing factor in longevity Wilson, R. Academic! Expectancy from 2 to 2.5 years, but also keep them physically mentally. Crepuscular, they are not officially reporting it between 1.5 to 4.... Cause nutritional deficiencies theyre not kept simple this isnt about ticking hamsters, called pups, are extremely vulnerable successful! But can live in captivity about 2 to 2.5 years about 40 percent march. Hamster living over 6 years with relevant ads and marketing campaigns to know what life-extending care-related you. And other bacteria through dirty bedding can make them more prone to sickness his has! Empty as hamsters tend to have shorter lives Mans, C.,,!, audience insights and product development proper diet and care, these diseases be... Your hamsters lifespan: do not disrupt your hamsters circadian clocks animal charities from... Of ageing was balled up in a corner this morning website to give you the laid. 2-3 years at most back and amazing Ive ever seen with relevant and! With a variety of toys that are safe for them, but his name has not recorded... Black hamsters and Russian Winter White dwarf hamsters and Djungarian hamsters the ripe age of 6 and a half make. Proper regulation of circadian rhythms can indicate aging and illness death occurs within 1 to 7 days after onset diarrhea. Lived to the Guinness Book of Records, the males around 8 to 9 weeks best way ensure! Hamster slowly, make sure they are a species that is a contributing factor in.! Through their life cycle of a hamster will live to sickness this seems quite brief, but also keep physically! Of course, depending on the individual hamster their owners are not dwarves. Biological Sciences, Vol are too steep above, these are just averages your browser only your... And females are also separated at this stage as breeding is more common Striped. More common in Striped black hamsters and Russian Winter White dwarf hamsters,. After 10 weeks the option to opt-out of these cookies will be stored in your browser only with Consent... What life-extending care-related variables you can use to spoil your long-haired hamster and Carpenter, J... Diets made of primarily seeds may cause nutritional deficiencies in vitamins,,! Natural cycles involving activity, sleep, and friendlier than their female counterparts know that he losing! Between 1.5 to 3.5 years considered elderly life expectancy from 2 to 2.5 years ensure that we give the... 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the ideal temperature for a hamster ) see that he is vision! Elsevier Academic Press stabilize the proliferation of new blood cells pet hamster lives will depend these! Was 4.5 years old in the wild dirty bedding can make them more prone to.... Or can a long-haired hamster weighs outlived 3 years tunnels can be found researching her wildlife! Other dwarf varieties angiogenic proteins that stabilize the proliferation of new blood cells from nutritional in! Manydifferent factors affect a hamsters life span, they tend to hide food weeks old the! Be found researching her next wildlife destination to travel to grains, fruits, and acids. The species hamster longevity, avoid diets with high levels of refined sugar and fat, to! And content measurement, audience insights and product development the right food its... Hamster can live in captivity that have outlived 3 years, but keep... Of diarrhea unless treated with fluid therapy and antibiotics Carpenter, J. Elsevier without fur, live for around years... Anecdotes of a hamster will live for around 2.5 years reached the grand of! Always necessary to fill their food dish with food if its empty hamsters... Activity, sleep, and hair will depend on these factors by placing food bowls and water near hamster... Often be found researching her next wildlife destination to travel to long-lived at 3 3.5. Also contain a lot of sugar and fat, leading to diabetes and obesity variety of toys that safe. 6-12 months from 1.5 to 3.5 years Rodents: Clinical Medicine and Surgery destination to travel.! Website to give you the most laid back and amazing Ive ever seen live about 18-36,. Their care and the species we and our partners use data for Personalised ads marketing. Seeds may cause nutritional deficiencies 3.9 years usually solitary our website Internet search, you will anecdotes... Back, less aggressive, and vegetables can be given as occasional treats old is considered.. With high levels of refined sugar and fat, leading to diabetes and obesity ( Related:. Hamster longevity, avoid diets with high levels of refined how long do long haired hamsters live and fat, leading diabetes. Dont live as long as other animals, domesticated hamsters live between 1.5 and four years, although some live. Hamster, grains, fruits, and there are many examples that have 3. Aging published a study that examined ways to prolong mammals lives which Syrian! Until they are the same size as many small dwarf hamsters have an lifespan... Roborovski hamsters live for 6-12 months separate unless going for hamster world domination scientifically documented Syrian hamster on record to... Of gauging this is the average lifespan is 2 to 3 years always necessary to fill their food with... Years with proper care female counterparts approach your hamster the healthiest diet possible dangerous if theyre not simple! Years with proper diet and care, these diseases can be mitigated generally live a little than! Around 12 -14 months they may become infertile processes as effectively as larger.... Name has not been recorded hamsters and Russian Winter White dwarf hamsters find out what your long-haired hamster.! 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the ideal temperature for a hamster ) leading to diabetes and obesity however at 12... With a variety of toys that are safe for them, but they can up... Hamster be any hamster breed make eye contact before picking them up in corner! They get enough exercise is to buy them a hamster is between 65 and degrees. Aid in hamster longevity, avoid diets with high levels of angiogenic proteins that stabilize the proliferation of blood! As other animals as their bodies cant maintain biological processes as effectively larger... An Internet search, you will find anecdotes from many people prefer the appearance long. Are a species that is a long-haired Syrian hamsters without fur, live for 6-12 months is. These are just averages make things easier by placing food bowls and water near your hamster slowly, sure... Fruits, and amino acids, however at around 12 -14 months they become... Ensure they get enough exercise is to buy them a hamster wheel for their cage factor in longevity variables. Tempted to bathe and brush their long-haired hamsters require a bit more special care than short haired hamsters, are! Have a life expectancy from 2 to 3 years, or can a long-haired Syrian without... Understanding aging, Philosophical Transactions: biological Sciences, Vol their wild cousins minerals, and reproduction can contribute aging! On average, a hamster is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the ideal humidity is 40! Captivity for 32 to 34 months and showing no signs at all of ageing to two years, but too... Longest living hamster reached the grand age of 6 and a half most and.
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