Stella's litter update

[AnnaMNR]

Well, the babies are 13 days old today! I was able to count them while they were running around and there are 12 They all seem healthy and are eating now--voraciously! Mama tried to round them up at one point and one dominant spot baby didn't want to stay in the nest. She had to retrieve this baby five times before he stayed put. Toward the end she seemed like, "Really? I'm your mother, do as I say" I can't wait till they open their eyes! This should start happening in the next couple of days, right?

I think Stella will be happy when they're raised. She's a good mother but I think it's taken a lot out of her.

The babies are covered in hair now. I can see markings and colors. It's interesting. I wish I could have been prepared for this though. Stella just decided to escape and find a mate I guess.

I'm going to keep a couple of the cute little buggers myself but I need to find homes for the rest. What do you suggest I put in a post here looking to rehome some of the babies?

Thank you everyone for all of the help!

[DrKMcK]

I agree Stella is probably getting a little tired by now. When my Sandy Bear had 16 babies she would wait for me to take her out for a break after the 14 day mark. She really needed a break from the babies. The eyes should open any day now. Can't wait to see them all

[fluffydd]

Stella's done really well taking care of 12 of them. Have you picked which ones you are going to keep yet? Looking forward to the photos

[kyrilliondaemon]

If you go to the section for hams needing rehoming they have a template, so just follow that and you'll be fine

[m00nbeam]

Oooooooh cannot wait !!! That's one rebellious pup !! ! <3

[AnnaMNR]

Thank you all for the help! The babies are 14 days old today so I held them! My heart melted. I THINK I have 8 girls and 4 boys. Not positive though. When their eyes are open I will post pictures and have you guys help me sex them if you will. Definitely don't want pregnant babies! They were very nice but they struggled which I think is normal. Mama didn't seem to have a problem with it. They're all so cute eating little pieces of veggies--they're already fighting each other over food and stealing from each other! It's hilarious. One tried to pack his cheek pouches like mama and looked absolutely ridiculous. Thank you all again. I'll get pictures up as soon as their eyes are open!

[DrKMcK]

Hello AnnaMNR. They sound adorable. One tip though, when you handle the babies, don't pick them up. Allow them to walk onto your hand on their own first. Then once on, you lift your hand up a little bit and then back down. It helps the babies become comfortable with the movement. Also, when a baby is on your hand, gently stroke the back. The more gentle and slowly you start, the more the babies will trust you. Remember, to a hamster we are huge. I can't wait to see the babies

[AnnaMNR]

Thank you for the tip =) How long should I handle them each day?

[flogging_molly]

Little to start with gradually building up. But little and often is best

[Openallhours27]

Awww I bet they're adorable x