Must Separate Hamsters in Cage: When & Why?
1. It is crucial to keep hamsters of different breeds in separate cages. For instance, dwarf hamsters and Syrian hamsters should never be housed together, as they may engage in fierce fights, attempting to assert dominance. Moreover, even if they coexist peacefully, interbreeding between different species is highly risky, posing dangers to the female hamster and potentially leading to the death of the offspring.
2. Once a female hamster is pregnant, she must be separated from the male. Pregnancy can make a hamster particularly sensitive, leading to potential aggression towards the male, and the male may not be gentle either. Such an environment of fear is detrimental to the pregnancy and could result in a miscarriage.
3. Hamsters with significantly different sizes should also be kept apart. Smaller hamsters are often bullied, struggling not only for food but also suffering emotional distress. Additionally, mating between hamsters of vastly different sizes can lead to complications for the female, such as dystocia, or even stillbirths.
4. Hamsters with disabilities or chronic illnesses should not be housed with others. The weaker individuals are prone to bullying, which can exacerbate their health issues and stress. Furthermore, certain diseases can be contagious, making group housing detrimental to the health of all hamsters.
5. If hamsters frequently fight and exhibit signs of aggression when housed together, it is essential to separate them. This indicates that they are not compatible and cannot live harmoniously. Cohabitation can lead to injuries and even fatalities during their altercations.
Group housing hamsters is an unscientific and potentially harmful practice. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid keeping multiple hamsters in the same cage to ensure their safety and wellbeing. If you have any further questions about hamster care, don't hesitate to consult with an online veterinarian for expert advice.
