What is the difference between male and female hamsters

Determining the sex of Syrian hamsters tends to be somewhat easier than sexing other species because the differences between the males and females are relatively obvious. Female Syrian hamsters have relatively visible nipples that appear in two rows running parallel to, and along the sides of, the belly. The nipples are most visible when the hamster's belly hair is short. Male Syrian hamsters have fairly obvious testicles that extend from their hind end.

The testicles may be retracted as with all male hamsters or hidden by fur, but generally, they are discernible in most cases. Dwarf hamsters have some additional features to help you determine their sex.

Male Dwarf hamsters have a visible scent gland located near the middle of the belly. There may also be yellow or oily staining around the gland, resulting from the gland's secretions. Female Dwarf hamsters have very small scent glands that are difficult to see. Male dwarf hamsters also may be identified by their testicles and the shape of the hind end tapering toward their tails. The testicles are most visible on mature hamsters. Finally, male Dwarf hamsters are larger than females, although size is an unreliable measure because it varies by age and the individual animal.

The most noticeable characteristic of Chinese hamsters is the shape of their hind ends. Males have longer, rounder rear ends than females. However, if you don't have both sexes of hamsters for comparison, you'll have to rely on the anogenital distance for positive identification.

Male hamsters seem to be more relaxed whilst female hamsters may have a lot more character. Female hamsters may also smell more due to going into heat. I have some personal experience on this matter, as I have had a male and a female hamster. My current male hamster, Richard, is a lot more relaxed than my previous female hamster.

He has never bitten and is a lot happier with being held. This is just an anecdote but it may reveal some differences between male and female Syrian hamsters!

Unlike with Syrian hamsters, there is not much difference in attitude between male and female Robo hamsters. Male robo hamsters are known to smell more than female Robo hamsters due to the scent gland on their belly. Dwarf hamsters, including Chinese, Winter White and Campbell types, have a few differences. Male dwarf hamsters tend to be bigger than female hamsters but there is no evidence that their attitude differs due to their sex.

Male dwarf hamsters will have a more notable scent gland and this may be more notable in terms of smell as well! It is my view that it should not be a major factor, unless you are getting a Syrian hamster. It may be advisable to get a male Syrian hamster if you have children who are not used to animals. Male Syrians are more relaxed and are more likely to be friendly to your child.

Other than that though, sex is not an important factor unless you are getting more than one hamster. Placing a male and female dwarf hamster in a cage together is going to lead to some unfortunate results!

Wondering what size wheel your hamster needs? Check out our article here! As I stated before. I have owned a male and a female hamster; therefore I feel qualified to be able to give some personal advice on this topic! These creatures go into heat every four days. During this time, they release odors that many describe as musky and foul.

The two will fight, likely to the death. This makes them a bad choice for anyone impatient. In most species, the males tend to be the larger and more dominant creatures. They can be territorial, though rarely as territorial as females usually are. Females are often aggressive out of nature, but males generally are much calmer and friendlier.

Males have thicker, fuller coats than females. But this becomes a double-edged sword. Eventually, this can result in full-blown hair loss, which can make for a patchy-appearing hamster. Males are generally friendlier and less aggressive than females.

But be aware that there might be more care involved with a male if their coat grows long enough. Caring for male and female hamsters is very similar. So, the main difference that will help you decide which to buy is in their temperaments.