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Exotics: Normal Values and Characteristics of Small Mammals
by Holly Frisby, DVM
Veterinary Services Department
Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
The following table provides information on the life span, weight, reproduction, and normal physiologic values of various small mammals often kept as pets. Most of the values are given in ranges, and depending upon the source, you may find somewhat different ranges provided elsewhere. Numbers may differ since information gathered from various breeds, species, and husbandry practices can affect the values.
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Life Expectancy |
Average Weight (grams*)
F=female
M=male |
Length of Pregnancy (days) |
Litter Size |
Weaning Age |
Recommended Environmental Temperature (ºF) |
Heart Rate
(beats per minute) |
Respiratory Rate
(breaths per minute) |
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Chinchillas |
8-10 yrs |
F 550-800;
M 450-600 |
105-118,
average 111 |
1-6,
usual 2-3 |
6-8 wks |
50-75 |
100-150 |
40-80 |
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Ferrets |
5-8 yrs |
F 600-800,
M 500-2000 |
41-42 |
1-18,
usual 8-10 |
6-7 wks |
50-75; never over 90 |
200-250 |
30-40 |
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Gerbils |
3-4 yrs |
F 50-75,
M 50-120 |
23-26 |
3-7 |
21-30 days |
65-75 |
260-500 |
85-140 |
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Guinea Pigs |
5-6 years |
F 700-900,
M 900-1200 |
59-72, average 68 |
1-10,
usual 2-4 |
3-4 wks |
60-85 |
240-400 |
50-130 |
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Hamsters |
18-30 mo |
F 95-125,
M 85-120 |
15-17 |
5-10 |
20-25 days |
70-75 |
275-480 |
50-100 |
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Hedgehogs |
5-7 yrs |
300-1500, depends on species |
34-38 |
1-7,
usual 3-4 |
4-6 wks |
70-80 |
120-170 |
50-110 |
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Mice |
12-36 mo |
F 30-60,
M 38-60 |
19-21 |
9-12 |
18-28 days |
70-77 |
400-750 |
80-220 |
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Rabbits |
6-11 yrs, depends on breed |
2-8 kg |
30-33 |
4-10 |
5-8 wks |
40-80; never over 85 |
150-300 |
30-60 |
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Rats |
26-48 mo |
F 225-325,
M 275-500 |
21-23 |
8-12 |
4 wks |
70-75 |
300-550 |
60-120 |
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Sugar Gliders |
8-10 yrs |
F 100-135,
M 120-160 |
16 days then move into pouch; emerge from pouch after 60-70 days |
1-2 |
110-115 days |
70-80 |
250-325 |
30-60 |
| * There are 453 gms (grams) in a pound. A kilogram (kg) is 1000 gms. |
Copyright © 2000 Drs. Foster and Smith, Inc. Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com. Online store at DrsFosterSmith.com. Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208.
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