Gerbils and hamsters are often confused because both are popular, small pet rodents frequently sold together. While they share similar needs for gnawing and exercise, they are distinct species. A deeper look at their biology, physical structure, and behavior reveals unique needs. Understanding these differences is essential for anyone considering one of these companions.
Shared Order, Separate Families
Gerbils and hamsters belong to the Order Rodentia, which includes all gnawing mammals characterized by continuously growing incisors. This shared order places them in the same group as mice, rats, and squirrels. However, their evolutionary paths diverged significantly at the Family level.
Gerbils, such as the common pet Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus), belong to the Family Muridae (Subfamily Gerbillinae). Hamsters, including Syrian and Dwarf species, fall under the Family Cricetidae (Subfamily Cricetinae). This taxonomic separation means they are only distant relatives.
How Physical Traits Differ
The most easily observable difference is the tail. Gerbils have a long, furred tail that often measures nearly the length of their body and typically ends in a small tuft of hair. Hamsters, in contrast, have a very short, stubby tail that is usually barely visible beneath their coat.
Gerbils also have a lean, elongated, and athletic build, supporting their ability to run and jump using long hind legs. Hamsters tend to be stockier, with a more compact and rounded body shape. Regarding facial structure, hamsters are recognized for their wider, rounder faces and expansive cheek pouches used for transporting food. Gerbils have a narrower, more pointed face and lack these large internal pouches. They also generally have more prominent eyes and ears.
Divergent Behavior and Care Requirements
The behavioral and social needs of these rodents require distinct approaches to their care. Gerbils are highly social animals that thrive in pairs or small, established same-sex groups and can become stressed if housed alone. Conversely, most hamster species, especially the Syrian or Golden hamster, are solitary and territorial, requiring individual housing to prevent fighting and serious injury.
Their activity patterns also differ, which significantly impacts when owners can interact with them. Hamsters are typically nocturnal or crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the night or at dawn and dusk. Gerbils are generally active in short bursts throughout the day and night, making them more visible companions during daylight hours.
Housing requirements reflect their wild instincts, particularly their respective burrowing habits. Gerbils possess a strong tunneling drive and require a deep layer of bedding, often six inches or more, to satisfy their need to create complex burrow systems. A glass tank enclosure is often preferred for gerbils because they are avid chewers and can quickly gnaw through plastic cage components.
While hamsters also benefit from bedding for nesting, they do not require the same depth as a gerbil enclosure. Furthermore, gerbils’ long tails necessitate the use of a solid-surface exercise wheel to prevent the tail from catching between rungs, a consideration that is not as critical for the short-tailed hamster.