Which One Makes a Better Pet, Gerbils or Hamsters? A Comprehensive Comparison

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Gerbils and hamsters are two of the most popular small pets around the world. Both of these animals belong to the rodent family and share many similarities. However, they also have their differences in terms of physical characteristics, temperament, housing, diet, grooming, and health. In this comprehensive comparison, we will take a closer look at gerbils and hamsters and help you decide which one makes a better pet.

Purpose of the Post

The purpose of this post is to provide pet owners or pet enthusiasts with the necessary information to make an informed decision when choosing between gerbils and hamsters. We will compare the two pets across different categories, including physical characteristics, temperament, housing, diet, grooming, training, playtime, health issues, and lifespan. By the end of this article, you should be able to decide which pet is right for you.

Physical Characteristics

Gerbils

Gerbils are small, long-tailed rodents that typically grow to be around 4 inches in length and weigh up to 2.5 ounces. They have a sleek and agile body with soft and thick fur that can come in various colors, including brown, black, white, and gray. They also have large eyes and ears that help them navigate their surroundings and detect potential predators. One unique feature of gerbils is their hind legs, which are much longer than their front legs, allowing them to jump and run with ease.

Hamsters

Hamsters, on the other hand, are also small rodents that grow to be around 3-7 inches in length and weigh up to 7 ounces. They have a stocky and robust body with short and thick fur that can come in different colors, including brown, black, white, and gray. They have small eyes and ears but a keen sense of smell that helps them locate food and avoid danger. Hamsters are known for their cute and chubby cheeks, which they use to store food for later.

Temperament and Social Behavior

Gerbils

Gerbils are social animals that thrive in pairs or groups. They are known to be friendly, curious, and active, making them an excellent choice for children or families. They are also very vocal and communicate with each other through a variety of sounds, such as chirping, squeaking, and thumping. Gerbils are active during the day and night, and they love to play and explore their surroundings.

Hamsters

Hamsters, on the other hand, are solitary animals that prefer to live alone. They can become territorial and aggressive towards other hamsters, making it difficult to keep them in pairs or groups. However, they are still friendly and affectionate towards their owners and can be trained to do simple tricks. Hamsters are also active at night and can be noisy with their wheel or running around their cage.

Housing and Environment

Gerbils

Gerbils require a larger cage than hamsters, as they are more active and love to run and jump. The minimum size for a gerbil cage is 20 gallons, but a larger cage is always better. Gerbils also need a deep layer of bedding to burrow in, such as shredded paper, wood shavings, or sand. They also need plenty of toys and accessories to keep them entertained, such as tunnels, wheels, and chew toys. Gerbils prefer a dry and clean environment and are sensitive to heat and humidity.

Hamsters

Hamsters require a smaller cage than gerbils, as they are less active and prefer a cozy and secure environment. The minimum size for a hamster cage is 10 gallons, but a larger cage is always better. Hamsters also need a deep layer of bedding to burrow in, such as shredded paper, wood shavings, or sand. They also need plenty of toys and accessories to keep them entertained, such as tunnels, wheels, and chew toys. Hamsters prefer a warm and dry environment and are sensitive to cold and drafts.

Diet and Nutrition

Gerbils

Gerbils are omnivores and require a balanced diet of both plant-based and protein-based food. They need a daily intake of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, lettuce, and broccoli, as well as a small amount of fruits, such as apple or banana. They also need a source of protein, such as seeds, nuts, or insects. Gerbils also require a constant supply of fresh water, which should be changed daily.

Hamsters

Hamsters are also omnivores and require a balanced diet of both plant-based and protein-based food. They need a daily intake of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, spinach, and cucumber, as well as a small amount of fruits, such as raspberry or peach. They also need a source of protein, such as seeds, nuts, or meat. Hamsters also require a constant supply of fresh water, which should be changed daily.

Grooming and Hygiene

Gerbils

Gerbils are clean animals that groom themselves regularly. They do not require frequent baths, as it can strip their fur of its natural oils. However, their cage and bedding should be cleaned at least once a week to prevent odor and bacteria buildup. Gerbils also need their nails trimmed regularly to prevent them from overgrowing.

Hamsters

Hamsters are also clean animals that groom themselves regularly. They do not require frequent baths, as it can dry out their skin. However, their cage and bedding should be cleaned at least once a week to prevent odor and bacteria buildup. Hamsters also need their nails trimmed regularly to prevent them from overgrowing.

Training and Playtime

Gerbils

Gerbils are intelligent animals that can be trained to do simple tricks, such as jumping through hoops or running through tunnels. They also love to play and explore their surroundings, so they need plenty of toys and accessories to keep them entertained. Gerbils also need daily exercise outside of their cage, such as running in a playpen or exploring in a supervised area.

Hamsters

Hamsters are also intelligent animals that can be trained to do simple tricks, such as spinning in circles or standing on their hind legs. They also love to play and explore their surroundings, so they need plenty of toys and accessories to keep them entertained. Hamsters also need daily exercise outside of their cage, such as running in a wheel or exploring in a supervised area.

Health Issues and Lifespan

Gerbils

Gerbils are generally healthy animals that can live up to 5 years with proper care. However, they are prone to certain health issues, such as respiratory infections, dental problems, and seizures. Gerbils also need to be kept away from extreme temperatures, as they cannot regulate their body temperature well.

Hamsters

Hamsters are also generally healthy animals that can live up to 2-3 years with proper care. However, they are prone to certain health issues, such as wet tail, dental problems, and tumors. Hamsters also need to be kept away from extreme temperatures, as they are sensitive to heat and cold.

Summary and Conclusion

Comparison of Gerbils and Hamsters

In summary, gerbils and hamsters are both popular small pets that share many similarities in terms of physical characteristics, diet, grooming, and health issues. However, they have their differences in terms of temperament, social behavior, housing, and playtime. Gerbils are more social, active, and require a larger cage, while hamsters are more solitary, less active, and prefer a smaller cage.

Choosing the Best Pet for You

Ultimately, the choice between gerbils and hamsters comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. If you want a social, active, and playful pet that requires more space and attention, gerbils may be the best choice for you. If you want a solitary, less active, and low-maintenance pet that requires less space and attention, hamsters may be the best choice for you. Whatever you choose, make sure to provide your pet with proper care, love, and attention.

ThePetFaq Team
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