Are Hamsters Rodents? Exploring Their Taxonomic Relationships

You may have heard that hamsters are rodents, but are these cute little animals really in the same order as rats and mice? The answer is yes, hamsters are rodents and are part of the family Cricetidae, which also includes 19 other species of hamsters, as well as voles, lemmings, and New World rats and mice.

Drawing on evidence from zoology, taxonomy, and evolutionary biology, this article will take a deep dive into the characteristics that make hamsters part of the rodent family. It will explain the physical, behavioral, and evolutionary traits that define hamsters as true members of the order Rodentia.

Types of Hamsters: A Look at the Different Kinds of Pet Hamsters

Of the 24 species of hamsters, only a few are kept as pets. The most common is the Syrian (Golden) hamster, which is known for its friendly nature and golden fur. These larger hamsters, which can grow to be 6-7 inches long, are often recommended for families with kids because of their sweet disposition and how easy they are to handle.

People who want smaller, more energetic pets often opt for one of the dwarf breeds, which include the Roborovski, Campbell's Russian, and Winter White Russian. These tiny hamsters, some of which grow to be as small as 2 inches, often do best when they're kept in same-sex pairs or groups as long as they're introduced properly.

The Chinese hamster is another medium-sized option, and it can be recognized by the dark stripe that runs down its back. Although they're shy at first, they can be socialized with regular handling.

Each type of hamster has its own unique traits when it comes to physical characteristics, life expectancy, personality, and how they should be housed. Knowing these differences is important when it comes to choosing a pet and making sure it's properly cared for. Because of their range of appearances and temperaments, the different types of hamsters have something to offer every family.

Taking Care of Your Pet: Important Things to Know About Hamster Care and Health

A proper environment, a healthy diet, and regular vet visits are all important to make sure that pet hamsters stay healthy and happy. According to Kaytee, hamsters need a large cage that's at least 15-20 gallons and has lots of solid ground space for burrowing and exploring. The cage should be filled with appropriate bedding like Carefresh, grass hay, or Yesterday's News, and maintained at a temperature of 65-80°F.

A healthy diet that includes commercial hamster food, fresh veggies, and the occasional treat is also important, as noted by PetMD. A good diet is important for good digestive health and overall health. Regular cage cleanings, grooming, and vet visits are also important, as The Spruce Pets explains that hamsters are susceptible to a number of health problems.

Some of the most common issues include digestive problems like diarrhea and "wet tail," respiratory problems, skin problems, and dental problems. As the Merck Veterinary Manual points out, the sooner these problems are caught and treated, the more likely it is that pet hamsters will live long, healthy lives. With proper care, these pets can be a great addition to your family for years to come.

How Long Do Hamsters Live? What to Know as a Pet Owner

The average lifespan of a pet hamster is between 1.5 and 3.5 years, depending on the species and the care it receives. PetMD explains that Syrian (Golden) hamsters live between 2 and 3 years, while the Roborovski and other dwarf species live up to 3.5 years.

A good diet, living conditions, and medical care can all help a hamster live longer and healthier. Versele-Laga points out that as hamsters get older, their fur gets finer and thinner, and they slow down.

Understanding how long a hamster lives can help pet owners know what to expect and how to deal with their pet's death when the time comes. Ferplast stresses that while the most popular pet hamsters live between 1.5 and 3 years, some have lived to be 7 years old.

Hamsters as Pets for Kids: Things to Think About and Responsibilities

With the right parental supervision and guidance, hamsters can be good pets for kids in elementary school, according to Petsmart. They can help kids learn responsibility by giving them daily care routines, such as feeding, cleaning, and handling the pet.

That said, according to Brie Brie Blooms, the fact that hamsters are nocturnal and the fact that they can be prone to biting may make them less than ideal pets for younger children. As WikiHow points out, kids should be taught how to handle their hamster properly to avoid getting bitten or hurting the hamster.

Parental support is important to make sure the hamster is being taken care of and to make sure the child is ready for the responsibility, as Dr. Jenn says. If parents are involved and kids are supervised, hamsters can be a great way to help kids develop empathy and responsibility in elementary school.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Special World of Hamsters

Yes, hamsters are rodents and are part of the Cricetidae family and share many of the same traits as other Rodentia species. There are 24 species of hamsters, but only a few are popular pets, including the well-known Syrian (Golden) hamster, Roborovski dwarf, Campbell's Russian, and Chinese hamster.

To keep a hamster healthy and happy, it's important to provide the right housing, diet, and veterinary care. PetMD explains that this includes a large enclosure, a well-rounded diet, and regular vet visits to check for and treat common health issues like digestive upset, respiratory infections, and dental problems.

Although they have a relatively short life expectancy of between 1.5 and 3.5 years, hamsters can be wonderful pets, especially for families with older kids. Brie Brie Blooms points out that with the right supervision and support, hamsters can help kids learn to be responsible and provide them with a source of companionship. This is why it's so important to make sure you understand and can meet a hamster's needs before bringing one home.