Gerbils and hamsters are both rodents, but they are different species and therefore have different needs. Some aspects of their care are similar, others vary a lot. Below you’ll find a checklist of some the similarities and differences.
![gerbil needs](https://www.omlet.com/images/originals/gerbil_whiskers.jpg)
Gerbils and hamsters: different animals, different needs
Similarities
- Both are desert species, (although pet specimens would struggle to live in the harsh conditions of their wild cousins).
- Both types of animal need lots of formulated dry food, and a little fresh food for variety.
- Neither species are recommended as ‘starter pets’ for young children (i.e. the under-tens). They are fast movers, can become easily stressed and unhappy, and need handling carefully. The responsibility for their care should always lie with an adult.
![gerbil needs](https://www.omlet.com/images/originals/gerbil_black_variety.jpg)
Gerbils are not recommended for young children, unless an adult is the main pet carer
Differences
- Unlike some hamsters (such as the Syrian or Golden), gerbils cannot be kept alone. In the wild, they live in family groups or colonies, whereas Syrian hamsters live a solitary life. Gerbils need to be kept in pairs or groups, so you will need enough space to make that work.
- Hamsters are generally nocturnal - meaning they are active at night - while gerbils are usually diurnal, which means they go about their business during the day.
- Gerbils usually live longer than hamsters – three to eight years on average, versus two to five years for hamsters (with these figures varying according to species).
- Gerbils need a much deeper cage than hamsters, for digging. Both types of rodent love to burrow, but gerbils have a very strong tunnelling instinct that needs to be satisfied. If you have a Qute, the bottom compartment of the unit is deep enough for both species to be happy.
- Gerbils require a solid exercise wheel, as their tails can become caught in a wheel with gaps between rungs. A full, solid wheel suits both species, in fact.
Comments
Ellie, 2 January 2019
this is true and i agree