What is the typical respiratory rate range for hamsters?

• A. 35-135 rpm
• B. 5-15 rpm
• C. 150-300 rpm
• D. 200-400 rpm

Answer: (A)

Normal resting respiratory rate for hamsters is roughly 35 to 135 respirations per minute. Hamsters have a high metabolic rate for their size, so their breathing is faster than larger animals, but it varies with activity, stress, and temperature. To measure it, observe for a full minute when the hamster is calm and not actively moving, watching chest or abdomen movements. Rates near the lower end (around 35 rpm) are common at rest, while rates approaching 135 rpm reflect natural variability among healthy animals. Numbers well below this range (like 5–15 rpm) would be unusually low for a resting hamster, and much higher rates (200–300 rpm or more) typically indicate activity, stress, or respiratory distress.