breeding syrian hamsters

hi im just wondering if i can breed my 7 month old sryian hamster Ernie and

JC my 2 month old hamster i did read that its not recommended to breed females that are the same age as JC but what about Ernie, is he still fertile

'cos hes kind of old :) plz reply

[souffle]

I would wait till your female is between four and six months to breed her. She is too young at the moment. The males remain fertile to quite a good age so he should be no problem. Research breeding and be sure you know what you are doing before mating. Also be sure you have potential homes for a large litter which will all need separate cages by around 8 weeks.

[Emma]

Hi *hamstr_luvr* and welcome to Hamster Central, and welcome to JC & Ernie too. Why don't you post an intro on the intros board to tell us more about them?



In answer to your question, 2 months is really too young for a female's first litter, and males can go on being fertile until their old age, which at 7 months Ernie is nowhere near. However indiscriminate breeding from pet hamsters is really ill advised, and I would be concerned at your reasons for wanting to breed from your pets, and their suitability as breeding animals. Please read the sticky 'Think before you Breed' http://www.hamstercentral.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=415 for more about things you need to consider about this - if you have any more questions about this then fire away :)



Em x

[souffle]

Sorry another point, what colour are your hammies as there are potential dangers in breeding hams with for example the white bellly gene which can result in eyeless hamsters and also double satinisation giving hairless animals. I agree with Emma. Think very carefully and talk with an experienced breeder before you start.