A Note About Breeding: Breeding your hamster is not a decision to make lightly and you absolutely must consider what you will do with any babies that result. Most pet stores have established suppliers already and there is no shortage of hamsters available. You should also carefully consider the temperament and health of the hamsters you are breeding. However, the information here may be helpful if you find yourself with a pregnant female by accident, or perhaps from the pet store.
Age of Sexual Maturity: Chinese hamsters may reach sexual maturity around 8 weeks of age, but are later maturing than other hamsters and usually do not breed for the first time until they are older (4 months for females). Females should be bred for the first time when they are 4 months old (males can be bred by 3-4 months of age).
Estrus Cycle: Female hamsters come into estrus (heat) every 4 days or so (this is the time they will be fertile and receptive to a male).
Length of Pregnancy: The gestation period of Chinese hamsters is usually 21 days.
Litter Size: Litter size is usually small; typically there are 4-6 pups per litter.
Age of Weaning: Chinese hamsters can be weaned at 21 days; this is a good age to separate male pups from the female pups.
Other Hamsters: Breeding Data: