Popular hamster species for pets: The Top 5 Hamster Species Commonly Chosen as Pets.
Popular hamster species for pets: Considering getting a hamster? These charming little creatures can be delightful and entertaining companions. While there are 24 hamster species, five of them are more commonly chosen as pets. Certain hamster breeds are well-suited to living alone, while others thrive in group settings. If you're seeking a hamster that enjoys interaction and handling, some breeds are more suitable for that, while others prefer independent play.
Traits of Different Species
Pet hamsters come in sizes ranging from 2 to 7 inches, featuring short tails, small eyes, and fur in various colors such as black, brown, gray, white, yellow, or red. They're equipped with large cheek pouches for collecting and carrying food, and their feet have four toes in the front and five in the back. Hamsters possess prominent, continuously growing, chisel-shaped front teeth. Larger hamsters typically prefer solitary living, as placing male Syrian hamsters together may lead to dominance fights and potential harm. However, same-sex dwarf hamsters often coexist peacefully.
In terms of behavior with humans, hamsters are generally docile and seldom bite. It's important to note that all hamsters are nocturnal, being active during the night and sleeping during the day.
Among the variety of hamster breeds, five specific ones stand out as excellent choices for family pets.
The Roborovski dwarf hamster, the smallest among popular breeds, matures to a mere 2 inches (5 cm) in length and typically lives for about three years. Due to their tiny size, it's advisable to house them in an aquarium with a mesh lid, as they can easily escape through the openings in wire cages. These hamsters are known for their agility and quick movements, displaying a love for activity. To keep them content, ensure they have plenty of toys and engaging activities.
While these hamsters can be handled, they tend to be happiest when left alone. Their small size and agile nature make it easy for them to wriggle out of your grasp, potentially leading to them getting lost. Despite this, they can be social creatures and thrive in same-sex groups if introduced properly. If you're considering owning multiple hamsters, the dwarf Roborovski is an excellent choice.
Campbell’s Dwarf Russian
The Campbell's Dwarf Russian hamster, scientifically known as Phodopus campbelli, typically grows to a maximum size of 4 inches and has an average lifespan of around two years. These hamsters are social creatures and can thrive in same-sex groups when introduced properly. Despite their small size, Campbell's Dwarf Russian hamsters are quick and may nip if they feel threatened or frightened. However, they are generally friendly and can be held comfortably when done correctly. Although they are nocturnal, these hamsters might be active for short periods during the day.
Syrian (Golden) Hamster
Also recognized as golden or teddy bear hamsters, the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) holds the title of the most favored pet hamster, particularly among children. Ranging in size from 5 to 9 inches, these hamsters boast a lifespan of two to four years. Due to selective breeding, Syrian hamsters are available in a diverse array of colors and coat lengths, although the typical hues are golden-brown and white.
The Syrian hamster stands out as the ideal choice for handling. Known for being easy to tame, it is the slowest among the popular pet hamsters and least prone to biting. While generally docile with humans, Syrian hamsters are territorial and should always be housed alone, as they may engage in fights if placed in groups. Remaining true to their nocturnal nature, they are seldom active during the day, with the early morning or late evening being the optimal times for interaction with these hamsters.
The dwarf winter white Russian hamster (Phodopus sungorus) shares similarities with the Campbell’s dwarf Russian hamster. Typically measuring 3.5 to 4 inches in length, these hamsters have an average lifespan of about two years. They exhibit a rounder shape and shorter faces compared to the Campbell's breed. Notably, their fur can turn white in winter. In terms of temperament, the dwarf winter white Russian hamster is known for being very docile and is less prone to biting than many other hamster species. However, due to their quick and agile nature, they may be challenging for children to handle.
This hamster breed can be kept in same-sex pairs or groups if properly introduced at a young age. It's important to note that even hamsters raised together can become territorial, potentially requiring separation as they get older. To house this small breed, it is recommended to use an aquarium tank with a mesh lid, as they could slip through the regular spacing of wire cages.
Chinese Hamster
The Chinese hamster (*Cricetus griseus*) can reach a length of up to five inches and has a lifespan of up to three years. Known for their friendly nature, these hamsters become comfortable with handling if consistently tamed and handled from a young age. However, if not accustomed to handling, they may exhibit timidity and nervousness, leading to potential nipping. Due to their small size and quick movements, they can easily wriggle out of your hands, so caution is advised when handling them. It's essential to be aware of the height at which you hold them to prevent high falls, and staying close to the ground is recommended. The Chinese hamster is a sociable species that can be kept in same-sex groups or pairs.
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