If you have a hamster, you might be curious how long your pet might live and what to expect as it grows and matures. You can keep a hamster happy by providing it with food, water, stimulation, and a clean environment for them to play.

Hamsters can be great first pets for children or even great companions if you live in an apartment that doesn't allow larger pets. They may not live as long as other pets, but if you give them lots of love and care, you can give them happy and fulfilling lives.

The Life of a Hamster

Birth

When hamsters are born, they are unable to see and they have no fur. Within the first couple of weeks, they'll start resembling what we expect hamsters to look like. Fur will grow in, they'll get their teeth, and they'll be more open to being handled away from their mother. Around five weeks, hamsters need to be removed from their mother and housed in separate cages. Hamsters have a tendency to fight, and if you mix males and females, they will begin breeding at an early age.

Life Expectancy

Hamsters can live anywhere from 18 months up to 3 or 4 years, depending on the hamster breed. Another factor is how well they're cared for. Hamster cages should be cleaned once a week or so, and this includes throwing out the bedding, wiping down the entire cage, and putting in fresh bedding. Consider using a water bottle rather than a dish, because hamsters tend to get wild and will constantly dirty an open bowl of water.

Death

As hamsters get older, they will encounter health problems, just as humans do. If you've given them fresh food, water, and a clean home to live in with lots of love, you’ve ensure that they've lived a long and happy life.

If you sense health problems when they are young, however, then seek out your vet to get them the care they need. If you have questions about hamster care in San Jose, visit this website http://www.evergreenvetclinic.com for more information.