Selecting a new hamster is a decision that should not be made without taking the time to truly consider what you want from your new pet. While each hamster has its own individual personality, some basic differences do tend to exist between males and females. Taking the time to decide what qualities you value in your hamster will help ensure a happy relationship between you.
Syrian Versus Dwarf
Syrian hamsters generally have more recognizable differences between the genders than other breeds of hamster. Dwarf male and female hamsters are very similar in behavior and appearance, while Syrian males tend to be smaller than the females.
Breeding
Female hamsters are capable of having babies. Picking a female hamster from the pet store means that, at some point in time, you may run the risk of having a litter of hamster pups. If you are intending to eventually breed your pet, you may want a female specifically so that you can have a litter.
Odor
Female hamsters go into heat every four days and some hamster owners report their female hamsters having a noticeable, musky odor to them on days when they are in heat. If you are sensitive to smells you may want to think twice about bringing home a female hamster.
Personality
Male hamsters are generally considered to be more mellow in terms of personality. If you are getting a hamster for your children to handle and care for, you may want to get a male. The National Hamster Council reports some of its breeders claim male hamsters are overall easier to handle and more friendly. Female hamsters generally tend to be more aggressive than the males, but the level of aggressiveness will vary by each individual animal.
Hair Loss
Male Syrian hamsters tend to have longer, thicker coats than the females and males with especially long hair may require some light grooming or combing. Male hamsters are also more likely to suffer from hair loss as they age. It is fairly common for a male hamster who is over one year old to begin to lose fur on his back, tummy and legs. The loss of fur can also be accompanied by flaky skin and dandruff.
References
- Small Animal Channel: Differences Between Male And Female Syrian Hamsters
- National Hamster Council: Hamsters As Pets
- Acorn Veterinary Hospital: Hamster Care
- Hammy's World: Hamster Fur Loss
- Pet Web Site: Hamsters Fur Loss
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Hamster Care
- The Pet Advantage: Hamsters
Photo Credits
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BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
Writer Bio
Jen Davis has been writing since 2004. She has served as a newspaper reporter and her freelance articles have appeared in magazines such as "Horses Incorporated," "The Paisley Pony" and "Alabama Living." Davis earned her Bachelor of Arts in communication with a concentration in journalism from Berry College in Rome, Ga.
