What Are the Physical Differences Between a Gerbil & Hamster?

Hamsters and gerbils are both rodents, and are commonly kept as pets, especially by kids. Besides having different sleeping patterns and social habits, both critters have several noticeable physical differences as well.

  1. Tails

    • The most notable physical difference between a hamster and a gerbil is the tail. Hamsters have very tiny, stub-like tails. If you have a long-haired hamster you may not even notice its tail. Gerbils, on the other hand, have very distinctive and long tails. A gerbil's tail is very furry and soft to the touch. If you are considering owning a gerbil you want to monitor your pet to make sure it doesn't acquire a tail injury.

    Noses

    • Gerbils have a snout-like nose that may remind you of a rat's nose due to the shape. Hamsters' noses are tiny and pink. Once your pet hamster becomes comfortable around you, it may like to caress you with its nose. Since there are several different species of hamsters ranging from the Chinese hamster to the dwarf hamster, not all hamsters will have the exact same nose. However, all hamsters' noses remain much shorter than the nose of any gerbil.

    Feet

    • Gerbils have longer feet and legs than hamsters and enjoy standing on their hind legs. Many pet owners like watching a gerbil stand. Some gerbils will even stomp up and down when they become excited. Hamsters usually stay on all fours. You may see your hamster lean up on two feet to accept food when you come near the cage, but you won't find your hamster remaining in an upright position due to its hind leg structure.

    Cheek Tricks

    • One of the main reasons that so many kids are intrigued by hamsters is because of their big cheeks. Hamsters can take a large quantity of seeds for such a small creature and store them in their cheeks. When a hamster fills both of its cheeks, the cheeks will look very puffy and cute. It can be amusing to watch the tiny hamster dump all of the seeds of its mouth. Gerbils do not have big cheek pouches and will eat their food as given.