Re: Resting period
Raising a litter takes a lot out a female. I would say a rest of 2 months is needed after the pups have been removed from her.
I would only consider a second litter if the female had proved to be a good mother and the pups were healthy and of excellent temperament and were adding something to your goals. I would not breed just because people were asking for a baby hamster to to supply a pet shop. The pups need to be better than their parents so enhancing and improving your stock.
The female should be in good health and back to her former weight. Any signs of dryness etc on her nipples should be healed and her coat should be glossy. She needs to be back in to a healthy routine of exercise and feeding and be well bodied.
I would not breed 3 times from one female. There is no point to that as you would have too many related hamsters. Twice maybe if she produced excellent babies or did not produce what you were looking for in first litter.
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