We all love a bit of social interaction, and it’s normal for us humans to crave it. However, not all rodents are the same. Perhaps you are interested in getting a second hamster? Let’s find out if hamsters can live a happy life with another hamster.
Hamsters are best kept away from each other in separate cages. Hamsters prefer to be solitary from the age of ten weeks. Introducing another hamster not from the same family into another hamster cage will stress both adult hamsters. In addition, hamsters often turn violent towards each other, which can be fatal.
Dwarf Hamsters are the only hamsters who could live together without violence with a sibling, but only if they have grown up together. You will need to make sure that the cage is much bigger, so they have enough space to reduce any territorial disagreements. However, don’t be surprised if they do have disagreements as the possibility is still high although not as high as other hamster types. You need to ask yourself is it worth the risk.
Best Practises For Getting Another Hamster
If you want another hamster, you will need separate cages for them both. Keep them out of each other’s way when out of their cages—dont risk introducing them to each other, as its a very high chance that they will fight. Fighting with each other will cause tremendous stress on your hamsters.
- Keep them separate, it is that simple! Hamsters are very much known for their aggression towards other hamsters.
Why don’t hamsters like each other?
Hamsters love their own space, and they are set in their ways. A hamster will result in its natural territorial and dominant wild state when faced with another hamster.
Recommend Reading:
- What Treats Can I Give My Hamster? (32 Safe & 12 Unsafe Food Items)
Territorial & Dominant
Have you ever noticed when you put your hand into your hamster cage, they either scream or turn on their backs? This is a hamster showing their territorial side, they love their surroundings, and if they feel that they are threatened by the hand or hamster, they will attack. However, most hamsters get used to us humans and being handled with time, but rival hamsters tend not to get along even after a long period.
Which hamster types are the most violent towards other hamsters?
The Syrian hamster is the most violent towards other hamsters, even their siblings. They hate to share their space with another hamster. The Syrian hamster will take no empathy and will viciously attack. There may be extreme cases where they get along; however, this is very rare.
How to stop two hamsters fighting?
It would be best if you separated them immediately to stop them from fighting. Use gloves such as garden gloves or any thick gloves that can protect you from their biting, however, you shouldn’t delay in separating them. Hamsters do not like to share their living space. They will not tolerate each other as friendly companions, especially when introduced as adults. The hamsters of any variety should be in separate cages.
Can hamsters kill each other?
Yes, hamsters certainly can kill each other. A hamster will bite and injure, which can later cause an infection that can lead to death.
Why are hamsters together at the pet shop?
The hamsters you see living together in a cage in a pet shop are generally ten weeks old or younger. When hamsters reach adult age, at around 12 weeks old, they tend to get aggressive towards each other regardless of whether they are siblings or know each other. The pet shop will separate the hamsters after the age of 10 weeks old.
When is a hamster an adult?
A hamster reaches adulthood at 12 weeks old. At this time, they are fully grown. Both male and female hamsters at this time have reached sexual maturity.
What rodents can live together? (Own Species Only)
- Chinchillas
- Guinea Pigs
- Rats
- Mice
- Gerbils
Conclusion
We now know that you should never mix hamsters. Hamsters prefer to live in solitary confinement. Hamsters are stress-free and happier on their own. If you want to get another hamster, you must treat them as separate pets in separate cages and not introduce them even when out of their cage. I think for us humans to get our heads around the fact that these cute balls of fluff don’t like the company is very much difficult. However, it’s just worth the stress on the hamsters.
Happy Hamster Parenting!
