Hamsters are usually the go-to for a low-maintenance pet, especially for children. Sadly, one hard fact about them is that they don't have a very long lifespan. What’s worse is that at least part of the reason hamsters die so young comes down unethical breeding practices.
So, if you’re worried about how long your hamster will live, let’s break it down.
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How Long Do Hamsters Live
On average, most hamsters live about 1.5 to 3 years in captivity, though this depends on their species, genetics, and environment.
Unfortunately, Dr. Dan O’Neill of the Royal Veterinary College writes that, “the current study reported a median age at death of 1.75 years across all hamsters under primary veterinary care. “
This table gives a general idea of how long different hamster breeds usually live:
| Hamster Type | Typical Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Syrian (Golden) Hamsters | 2 to 3 years in captivity; some live up to 4.5 years. |
| Dwarf Hamsters | 1.5 to 2 years (includes Campbell's and Winter White species). |
| Roborovski Hamsters | 2 to 3.5 years, with 3 years being most common. |
| All Pet Hamsters (Average) | About 1.75 years (21 months), based on a large study. |
Luckily, you can do a lot to help your hamster’s lifespan. This includes a proper diet, a clean, large enclosure, with space and a wheel to keep them active. Making a more natural enclosure for your hamster can reduce stress, which can help them live longer.
If you’re worried about whether your hamster is sick or unwell, be sure to use a Pet Cam to keep an eye on them when you’re not there.
Why Do Hamsters Die So Easily
Unfortunately, hamsters are pretty fragile animals with delicate bodies and fast metabolisms. They’re extremely prone to stress, which we often see in hamsters who are obsessive about escaping their cages.
The most common health issues in hamsters are:
- Wet tail (bacterial infection causing diarrhea, that can be fatal).
- Bite injuries from fighting with other hamsters.
- Overgrown nails.
- Overgrown incisors (teeth).
- Traumatic injuries (usually from falls, accidents, or injuries from habitat hazards).
- Digestive disorders, including diarrhea and bloating.
- Eye-related issues like infections or cataracts.
- Skin disorders such as mites, fungal infections, or abscesses.
- Tumors and cancers.
- And difficulty breathing, usually from a respiratory infection.
One Reddit user points a finger at the pet industry, writing; "Pet store hamsters…are bred en masse in pet mills under terrible conditions and without any regard to genetics (i.e., inbreeding)," leading to health problems that cause them to die young.”
FAQs
What is the Syrian hamster lifespan?
Syrian hamsters should live 2 to 3 years, with some rare cases reaching 4 or even 5 years. Males may live slightly longer than females.
What is the lifespan of a dwarf hamster?
Dwarf hamsters, like the Winter White or Campbell’s, usually live 1.5 to 2 years, though their lifespans are shorter on average compared to Syrian hamsters.
What hamster lives the longest?
Roborovski hamsters tend to live the longest, often reaching 3 to 3.5 years in captivity. However, some properly bred and cared for Syrian hamsters can live longer.
Do hamsters kill themselves?
No, hamsters do not intentionally harm themselves. However, their size and unethical breeding practices means they are vulnerable to accidents, illnesses, and stress, which can lead to sudden and early deaths.
Conclusion
Hamsters may have short lives, but good care can make a big difference. On average, they live 1.5 to 3 years, depending on their species and care. Poor breeding, as seen with many pet store hamsters, can sadly result in a number of health issues that can cause many of them to die before they reach 2 years old.
If you love hamsters, try to source them ethically, and provide them with a stimulating, natural environment to live in, with a properly balanced diet.