Emergency Guide: What to Do When Your Hamster Suddenly
1. When a hamster is pregnant and housed with other hamsters, it is crucial to isolate the mother hamster immediately after giving birth. This is because the other hamsters may inadvertently harm or even eat the newborn pups. Additionally, the mother hamster, if left in a crowded environment, may feel overwhelmed with stress, which could lead her to abandon or consume her offspring.
2. Postpartum, the cage should be placed in a quiet, secluded, and dimly lit area. It's also important for the owner to minimize their presence around the new family to prevent the mother from becoming anxious. As long as the mother has access to ample food and water, she will naturally care for her pups without any assistance. The cage should be wellladen with bedding materials to ensure warmth and comfort for the new family.
3. It's best to keep the newborn pups in their birthplace as much as possible. If relocation is necessary, avoid handling the pups directly with your hands, as this can introduce your scent to them. The mother may reject pups that smell like her owner, leading to potential consumption. So, even if you're tempted to cuddle the adorable pups, it's best to resist the urge.
4. During the nursing period, the mother hamster's diet should be rich in nutrients, as she needs to nourish both herself and her pups. A lack of nutrition can result in reduced milk supply, which might prompt the mother to eat her pups. Feeding her extra mealworms and providing clean drinking water can help. Once the pups are weaned, it's essential to separate them from the mother to prevent conflicts or inbreeding, which can hinder their growth and development.
Should the mother hamster suddenly give birth, there's no need to panic. The only requirement is to ensure she has sufficient food and water. For those seeking more information about hamster births, additional articles on the website can provide further insights.