How to Determine the Gender of a Dwarf Hamster

Sexing animals is sometimes tricky. If you are planning on being a multi-pet household, then it's of the utmost importance to avoid gender wars or unexpected deliveries. It's harder to figure out the gender of some animals than it is others. It may have to do with the species or with the age. A dwarf hamster is one example.

Instructions

1. Hold your dwarf hamster and flip it over on its back gently. Make sure it's secure to keep struggling to a minimum.

2. Observe the rear end area and look for two openings. Blow the fur aside if necessary. This warm air also calms a struggling dwarf hamster.

3. Judge the distance between the openings. Males have two openings, the anus and an area further up called the male vent. The female has two openings closer together, the anus and the female vent.

4. Look for other gender indicators. The male has a scent gland further up the center of its belly and may have protruding testicles while sleeping or in warm weather. The female has two rows of four pairs of nipples running up her sides.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to determine the gender of your dwarf hamster after four weeks of age if possible, but no earlier than three weeks.

• Male dwarf hamsters don't have nipples. Unfortunately it's not easy to see the nipples in female dwarf hamsters.

• For a difficult-to-handle dwarf hamster, place it in a clear dish and view from underneath the dish.