Gerbil Vs Hamsters

In the eternal debate of Gerbil vs Hamsters, both furry creatures have their own unique qualities that make them beloved pets. Gerbils are known for their friendly and sociable nature, while hamsters are often admired for their cute and cuddly appearance. While both make great companions, understanding their individual characteristics and needs is essential in making the right choice for your home. This article explores the similarities and differences between gerbils and hamsters, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about which furry friend is the perfect fit for you.

Physical Characteristics

Size and Weight

Gerbils and hamsters are both small rodents, but there are differences in their size and weight. Gerbils are generally larger than hamsters, averaging around 4 to 6 inches in length, with an additional 4-inch tail. They typically weigh between 2 to 4 ounces. On the other hand, hamsters are slightly smaller, measuring about 3 to 5 inches in length, with a shorter tail or sometimes no tail at all. Hamsters typically weigh between 1 to 2 ounces, making them a bit lighter than gerbils. So, if you prefer a slightly bigger and heavier pet, a gerbil might be the better choice for you.

Fur and Colors

When it comes to fur and colors, both gerbils and hamsters showcase a variety of options. Gerbils have soft and silky fur, which can come in various colors such as agouti, black, white, gray, and even spotted or patched. Some gerbils even have a combination of colors, making them quite the little showstoppers. Hamsters, on the other hand, have dense and plush fur, and they come in various colors and patterns as well. Common hamster colors include golden, white, brown, and gray. Some hamsters also have unique patterns like tortoiseshell or banded.

Tail Length

One noticeable difference between gerbils and hamsters is their tail length. Gerbils have long, slender tails that can reach up to 4 inches in length. Their tails serve various purposes, aiding them in balance, communication, and regulating body temperature. On the contrary, hamsters have short tails or sometimes even no visible tail at all. Their tail is usually very short and barely extends beyond their body. While both gerbils and hamsters can use their tails for balance, gerbils rely on them more due to their longer length.

Ears

Another characteristic to consider is the shape and size of their ears. Gerbils have relatively large ears that are wide at the base and taper to a point. Their ears provide effective hearing, allowing them to be aware of their surroundings. In contrast, hamsters have smaller ears that are rounder in shape. While they might not have the same excellent hearing as gerbils, their ears are still quite sensitive and help them detect sounds and potential dangers in their environment.

Snout

The shape of their snouts is also worth noting. Gerbils have more elongated snouts that are slightly rounded at the tip. Their snouts are well-suited for digging and burrowing, which aligns with their natural habitat in dry desert areas. Hamsters, on the other hand, have shorter and more rounded snouts. This adaptation helps hamsters thrive in various environments, including burrows, where their snouts aid in digging and exploring. So, if you prefer a pet with a more elongated snout for its digging prowess, gerbils would be the better choice.

Origin and Habitat

Gerbils

Gerbils are native to the sandy deserts of Mongolia and northeastern China. They have adapted to live in arid climates, where they are well-equipped to survive with their incredible burrowing abilities. In the wild, gerbils live in complex networks of burrows, creating intricate systems with multiple entrances and chambers. These burrows provide them with protection from predators and shelter from extreme temperatures. Gerbils have evolved to be highly skilled diggers, using their sharp claws and strong front teeth to create their underground homes.

Hamsters

Hamsters, on the other hand, have a different origin and habitat. The wild ancestors of modern-day hamsters hail from regions such as Syria, Turkey, and Greece. They have adapted to live in a wide range of environments, including deserts, grasslands, and even higher altitudes. In the wild, hamsters create burrows as well, which serve as their nests and storage spaces for food. These burrows also provide hamsters with protection from predators and temperature fluctuations. While they share a burrowing behavior with gerbils, their habitat preferences are broader.

Species and Varieties

Gerbils

There are several species of gerbils, but the most commonly kept as pets are Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus). Mongolian gerbils have become popular pets due to their friendly and curious nature. They are social animals that thrive in pairs or small groups, making them ideal for those who want a more interactive pet experience. Mongolian gerbils also come in various colors, offering a wide selection for prospective gerbil owners.

Hamsters

There are several species of hamsters as well, but the most commonly found as pets are Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). Syrian hamsters are solitary animals and prefer to live alone. They have a reputation for being independent and can become territorial if housed with other hamsters. Syrian hamsters also come in different coat colors and variations, including long-haired and short-haired varieties. So, whether you prefer a social gerbil or an independent hamster, there is a suitable pet for everyone’s preferences.

Behavior and Temperament

Gerbils

Gerbils are known for their energetic and social nature. They are highly active and enjoy exploring their surroundings. Gerbils are curious creatures, always on the lookout for new things to investigate. They love to dig, burrow, and create tunnels, so providing them with appropriate toys and accessories in their enclosure is essential. Gerbils are also known to be friendly and can be easily tamed with patience and gentle handling. They are social animals that enjoy interacting with their human companions and other gerbils.

Hamsters

Hamsters have a more solitary and independent nature compared to gerbils. They are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active during the night. Hamsters enjoy a quiet and peaceful environment during the day, as they sleep and rest to conserve energy for their nightly adventures. While hamsters can be tamed and handled, they may require a bit more patience and time to become comfortable with human interaction. Some hamsters may exhibit territorial behavior if their personal space is invaded, so it’s crucial to respect their boundaries.

Solitary vs. Social Animals

As mentioned earlier, gerbils are social animals that thrive in pairs or small groups. Keeping gerbils together provides them with companionship, mental stimulation, and opportunities for social interaction. On the other hand, hamsters, particularly Syrian hamsters, are solitary animals and prefer to live alone. They can become stressed or even aggressive if forced to share their living space with another hamster. It’s essential to consider the social needs of these pets when deciding which one is the right fit for you and your lifestyle.

Activity Levels

Both gerbils and hamsters are active animals, but their activity levels may vary. Gerbils are known for their high energy levels and love for exploration. They enjoy running on exercise wheels, playing with toys, and engaging in various activities throughout the day. Hamsters, being nocturnal, have bursts of energy during the night. They are skilled climbers and enjoy navigating through tunnels and climbing structures within their enclosure. Providing ample opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation is vital for the overall well-being and happiness of both gerbils and hamsters.

Aggression

While gerbils and hamsters are generally friendly animals, there is always a potential for aggression, particularly when it comes to territory and dominance within their social groups. Gerbils have a hierarchical structure within their colonies, where dominant and subordinate roles are established. Sometimes, aggression can occur during these dominance disputes. Similarly, hamsters can display aggression towards other hamsters if introduced or housed together. It’s essential to be mindful of their behavior and provide them with enough space and resources to minimize aggression.

Lifespan

Gerbils

Gerbils have a relatively long lifespan for small rodents, averaging around 2 to 4 years. With proper care, diet, and a suitable living environment, some gerbils can even live up to 5 years or more. Maintaining their health through regular veterinary check-ups and providing a balanced diet will contribute to a longer and happier life for your gerbil companion.

Hamsters

Hamsters have a shorter lifespan compared to gerbils. On average, hamsters live around 2 to 3 years. Syrian hamsters tend to have slightly longer lifespans compared to other hamster species. While their time with us may be shorter, ensuring their well-being, proper nutrition, and a stress-free environment will help maximize their lifespan.

Diet and Nutrition

Gerbils

Gerbils are omnivorous animals, meaning they eat a combination of plant-based and animal-based food. In the wild, gerbils feed on seeds, grains, grasses, insects, and even small vertebrates. When kept as pets, gerbils can be provided with a commercial gerbil food mix that consists of a variety of grains, dried fruits, and vegetables. Fresh vegetables and occasional protein-rich treats can also be added to their diet, ensuring a well-rounded nutritional intake. It’s essential to provide a constant supply of clean and fresh water for gerbils to stay hydrated.

Hamsters

Hamsters are primarily herbivores, with a diet mainly consisting of seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetables. They can be provided with a good-quality commercial hamster food mix that has a balanced nutritional profile. These food mixes often contain a variety of grains, seeds, dried vegetables, and occasional dried fruits. Fresh vegetables and fruits can also be given as supplements, offering additional nutrients and hydration. Clean and fresh water should always be available for hamsters to drink.

Preferred Foods

Both gerbils and hamsters have specific dietary preferences. Gerbils enjoy a diet that is rich in seeds, grains, and vegetables. They have a particular fondness for sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, millet, oats, and leafy greens like spinach and kale. Hamsters, on the other hand, prefer a mix of grains, seeds, and occasional fruits and vegetables. They enjoy foods such as sunflower seeds, millet, oats, apples, carrots, and broccoli. It’s essential to offer a varied diet that meets their nutritional needs and provides them with enjoyment during mealtime.

Water Requirements

Water plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of gerbils and hamsters. Both gerbils and hamsters require a constant supply of fresh and clean water. The water should be easily accessible to them and should be provided in a spill-proof water bottle or a shallow dish that cannot be easily tipped over. It’s important to check the water supply regularly and ensure it is free from contamination or debris. Regularly changing the water and cleaning the water container will help maintain good hygiene and prevent any potential health issues.

Housing and Cages

Gerbils

Gerbils require a spacious and stimulating enclosure that replicates their natural habitat. A glass tank or an aquarium with a mesh lid is an excellent choice for gerbils, providing good ventilation while preventing escape. The tank should ideally have a minimum size of 10 gallons per gerbil to allow for ample space to burrow and explore. It’s important to provide plenty of bedding material for their burrowing needs, as well as toys, tunnels, and hideouts for enrichment and mental stimulation.

Hamsters

Hamsters also need a suitable enclosure that allows for both privacy and stimulation. A wire cage with a solid bottom base is a common choice for hamsters. It provides good ventilation and ample space for them to climb and explore. The cage should have bar-spacing that is appropriate for the specific breed of hamster to prevent any possibility of escape. The minimum recommended size for a hamster cage is 360 square inches of floor space. Providing tunnels, climbing structures, and hiding spots such as igloos or small wooden huts will enhance their living environment.

Cage Size

Both gerbils and hamsters require adequate space in their enclosures to thrive and display their natural behaviors. While the recommended size for a gerbil enclosure is a minimum of 10 gallons per gerbil, a hamster cage should have a minimum of 360 square inches of floor space. Providing a larger enclosure allows them to roam, exercise, and explore, preventing any sense of confinement or stress.

Bedding Material

Proper bedding material is essential for the overall well-being and comfort of gerbils and hamsters. Wood shavings made from aspen or paper bedding are popular choices, as they are relatively dust-free and non-toxic. These bedding materials provide softness and absorbency, ensuring a dry and cozy environment for your pet. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can emit strong odors and potentially harm the respiratory system of small animals. It’s important to maintain cleanliness by spot-cleaning regularly and fully replacing the bedding at least once a week.

Environmental Enrichment

Enriching their environment is crucial for the mental stimulation and well-being of gerbils and hamsters. Providing a variety of toys, tunnels, chew toys, and climbing structures will help prevent boredom and promote natural behaviors. Gerbils enjoy items they can dig and burrow in, such as sand baths or large cardboard tubes. Hamsters, being natural climbers, can benefit from multilevel cages with ladders or platforms. Additions like exercise wheels, puzzle feeders, and hiding spots will keep them engaged and entertained.

Reproduction and Breeding

Gerbils

Gerbils are known for their quick breeding cycle and ability to produce large litters. They reach sexual maturity at around 8 to 12 weeks of age, and females can become pregnant shortly after. The gestation period for gerbils is relatively short, lasting about 24 to 26 days. Litter sizes can range from 2 to 10 or more pups, with larger litters being more common. Gerbils have a natural instinct for parental care, and both the mother and father play an active role in raising and nurturing their young.

Hamsters

Hamsters also have a relatively rapid breeding cycle. Syrian hamsters, in particular, have the potential to breed throughout the year unless separated. Syrian hamsters reach sexual maturity at around 4 to 6 weeks of age, and the gestation period is approximately 16 to 18 days. The litter size can vary from 1 to 20, but the average is usually around 6 to 8 pups. Unlike gerbils, hamsters are generally solitary animals and may become territorial or aggressive towards their young if not separated.

Gestation Period

The gestation period, or the time it takes for the offspring to develop in the mother’s womb, differs between gerbils and hamsters. Gerbils have a gestation period of about 24 to 26 days, which is relatively longer compared to hamsters. Hamsters have a shorter gestation period of approximately 16 to 18 days. It’s important to be aware of these timelines when breeding or preparing for a potential litter of baby gerbils or hamsters.

Litter Size

Gerbils and hamsters can have varying litter sizes, with gerbils generally having larger litters. Gerbil litters can range from 2 to 10 or more pups, with larger litters being more common. Hamster litters, on the other hand, can vary from 1 to 20 pups. However, the average litter size for hamsters is usually around 6 to 8 pups. It’s essential to provide appropriate nesting materials and space for the mother and her pups to ensure their comfort and safety during the early stages of development.

Parental Care

Both gerbils and hamsters exhibit natural parental care instincts towards their offspring. Gerbil parents, both the mother and father, actively participate in caring for their young. They will clean and groom the pups, provide warmth, and ensure proper nutrition through nursing. Gerbils are known to be attentive and nurturing parents, with the father even having a role in the rearing process. Hamsters, however, have different parental behaviors. While the mother hamster is primarily responsible for raising the pups, it’s important to monitor their interaction and separate the male hamster to prevent any aggression towards the young.

Health and Common Diseases

Gerbils

Gerbils are generally hardy animals, but there are still some health concerns to be aware of. Respiratory issues, such as pneumonia or rhinitis, can occur if their living environment is not kept clean or if they are exposed to drafts or extreme temperatures. Dental problems can arise if their teeth become overgrown due to inadequate wear. Tumors, both benign and malignant, can also occur in gerbils. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and a clean living environment can help minimize the risk of these health concerns.

Hamsters

Hamsters, like gerbils, can experience respiratory issues if exposed to poor air quality or drafts. Dental problems, including overgrown teeth, can also occur if they do not have enough chew toys or if their diet lacks proper wear on their teeth. Additionally, hamsters can develop tumors, particularly mammary tumors in females, which require immediate veterinary attention. Regular veterinary check-ups, a proper diet, and a clean and stress-free environment are essential for maintaining their overall health.

Respiratory Issues

Respiratory issues can affect both gerbils and hamsters. These issues may include symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, or nasal discharge. Respiratory problems can be caused by poor air quality, such as dusty bedding or an unclean living environment. Exposure to drafts or extreme temperatures can also contribute to respiratory distress. To prevent respiratory issues, it’s important to maintain good hygiene, provide clean bedding, and ensure proper ventilation in their enclosures.

Dental Problems

Both gerbils and hamsters have continuously growing teeth. If their teeth become overgrown, it can lead to dental problems and discomfort for the animals. Regular chewing and gnawing on appropriate items, such as chew toys or wooden blocks, help wear down their teeth naturally. A balanced diet that includes hard food items like seeds and grains also aids in keeping their teeth in good condition. If dental problems occur, such as tooth overgrowth or malocclusion, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian experienced with small animals.

Tumors

Tumors can develop in gerbils and hamsters, although they are more common in older animals. Tumors can be either benign or malignant and can occur in various locations, including mammary glands, abdominal organs, or skin. Signs of tumors may include lumps or swelling, weight loss, changes in appetite or behavior, or difficulty moving. If you suspect a tumor, it’s important to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve the outcome for your pet.

Interactions with Humans

Popular as Pets

Both gerbils and hamsters are popular choices as pets, particularly for families and individuals who prefer small and low-maintenance companions. Gerbils are often chosen for their friendly and sociable nature, making them suitable for individuals seeking more interactive pets. Hamsters, with their adorable appearances and independent personalities, also make beloved pets. Both gerbils and hamsters have unique characteristics and charm that attract people to them as popular pet choices.

Handling and Taming

Gerbils and hamsters can be tamed and handled with patience, time, and gentle interactions. When it comes to handling, it’s important to approach them calmly and gently, allowing them to become familiar with your scent and touch. Start by offering treats or putting your hand in their enclosure without grabbing them. As they become more comfortable, you can begin to scoop them up with cupped hands or use a small container to gently lift them. Gradually increasing the duration and frequency of handling sessions will help build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Children and Gerbils vs. Hamsters

Both gerbils and hamsters can make suitable pets for children, with proper adult supervision and guidance, of course. Gerbils are known for their friendly and social nature, making them more interactive and engaging companions for children. Their curiosity and energy align well with a child’s desire for an active and playful pet. Hamsters can also be a good choice for children, particularly those who prefer observing and having a pet that requires less handling. It’s important to educate children about the animals’ needs, proper handling techniques, and the responsibility involved in caring for a pet.

Training and Tricks

While gerbils and hamsters may not be as trainable as dogs, they can still learn simple tricks and behaviors with patience and positive reinforcement. The key to training small rodents is through operant conditioning, using treats and rewards to encourage desired behaviors. Teaching them to come to your hand for treats, navigate through tunnels or obstacles, or even responding to their names are all possible training activities. However, it’s important to remember that each gerbil or hamster has its own personality and learning capabilities, so the level of training achieved may vary from pet to pet.

In conclusion, gerbils and hamsters are both popular choices as small pets, each with their own unique characteristics and needs. Gerbils are social and energetic animals, while hamsters are more solitary and independent. Both species require appropriate housing, nutrition, and care to ensure their well-being and happiness. By considering their physical characteristics, behavior, lifespan, and specific care requirements, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect furry friend to join your family.