Hamsters versus guinea pigs

The Dodo spoke to Dr. Chyrle Bonk, a veterinarian with Hepperto find out the main differences between guinea pigs and hamsters and what factors a pet parent should consider before adopting one for themselves or their child. Guinea pigs are part of the Hamsters versus guinea pigs family, like wild cavies and capybaras, while hamsters are part of the Cricetidae family. There are other differences between them, too.

Hamsters and guinea pigs are two of the most popular small animal friends coveted by kids, so let's get to know more about their history, what makes each of these critters special and decide which might be best for your family and current lifestyle. These often chatty yes, they can oink! Guinea pigs are actually rodents with tiny tails that originated hundreds of years ago in South America's grasslands, forests, and rocky terrain. They are still present in the world today where you might spot the short-haired English breed, a wiry hair Abyssinian with swirly rosettes in its fur or the long-hair Peruvian. Learn more about guinea pig breeds here. The beloved hamster is much smaller in size than a guinea pig -- but also a rodent.

Hamsters versus guinea pigs

Both have for many years been popular choices around the world as family pets. But they are completely different although related animals. They are both from the rodent family but Guinea Pigs are a domesticated animal that belongs to the Cavia genus whereas Hamsters include some 25 species including Syrian hamsters, dwarf hamsters, hand hamsters in the Cricetinae genus. In general terms, hamsters are more closely related to mice than Guinea Pigs. The most obvious difference is size. Guinea Pigs weigh between to grams and their bodies measure from 20 to 32cms whereas Hamsters are around half that size. Other details that will help you distinguish between a Guinea Pig versus Hamster is that Guinea Pigs tend to have a more rounded stubby appearance large round head and rump and a stumpy neck and are tailless. Hamsters have much more rodent-like features. Hamster babies pups are born hairless and blind whereas Guinea Pigs produce well-developed young piglets. Both Hamsters and Guinea Pigs display a broad range of colourations. Hamsters, on the other hand, are omnivores and will eat plant material as well as insects and worms.

Adopting A Hamster.

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Hamster and guinea pig look similar at first sight. They both belong to the order Rodentia. They are both rodents from the same order but different families. So, what is the difference between a hamster and a guinea pig? A hamster is small in body size while a guinea pig is large in body size. A hamster is a short-tailed rodent of Europe and Asia. The common one is The Golden Hamster because it looks attractive as a pet. They are mainly active at night. They live between years. Their offspring are born without hair and sight and a litter can comprise up to 20 pups.

Hamsters versus guinea pigs

The Dodo spoke to Dr. Chyrle Bonk, a veterinarian with Hepper , to find out the main differences between guinea pigs and hamsters and what factors a pet parent should consider before adopting one for themselves or their child. Guinea pigs are part of the Caviidae family, like wild cavies and capybaras, while hamsters are part of the Cricetidae family. There are other differences between them, too.

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We're not just being nasty to hamsters here, but it is a well-known fact that in general guinea pigs enjoy interacting with one another and indeed, other animals including humans! Types Of Orioles. One brand that is suitable for a pair of guinea pigs is the MidWest Guinea Habitat. Hamsters are more nocturnal, so you may not want to keep them in your room if you have a squeaky running wheel. Guinea pigs, by contrast, are born almost fully developed. I disagree. They require daily handling and interaction to grow accustomed to you just like guinea pigs! But they don't share the same family; guinea pigs are members of the Caviidae or Cavi family while hamsters are members of the Cricetidae family. Previous article Next article. Limited availability due to high demand. However, it may surprise you to find out that guinea pigs, on the whole, can be louder.

Both have for many years been popular choices around the world as family pets. But they are completely different although related animals. They are both from the rodent family but Guinea Pigs are a domesticated animal that belongs to the Cavia genus whereas Hamsters include some 25 species including Syrian hamsters, dwarf hamsters, hand hamsters in the Cricetinae genus.

Hamsters are small, so they can be handled with one hand once they become adjusted. Hamsters will usually live for between 2 and 3 years. Sadly not. There have been studies that positively correlate the size of the cage with a hamster's lifespan they live longer and happier in a bigger cage! Guinea pigs need extra vitamin C added to their diets because their bodies can't produce it in the same way as other mammals. Hamster Housing. Lifespan Piggies typically live between years , but in some rare cases have also been known to make it to a ripe old age in the double digits. Fleece may be suitable to use as an accessory like a hammock or a small area of fleece, it is recommended to provide a section of a cage or a box where hamsters can still burrow. I had 2 hamsters and i'm going to get another one after this virus. Read our blogs:. By Lauren Taylor. Recover password.