What is the difference between hamster and rat?

Hamsters are rodents, just like chinchillas, guinea pigs, Mongolian squirrels, rats, and mice. However, are they the same type of pet? Because they are so similar, many pet owners want to know if a hamster is a rat.

Despite being rodents, hamsters belong to the family Cricetidae. On the other hand, mice, rats, twisters, and gerbils belong to the family Muridae. Lastly, guinea pigs belong to Caviidae, and chinchillas belong to Chinchillidae.

So, is a hamster a rat? Today, we will talk more about the characteristics of these two pets, as well as their respective families. This way, you can put an end to your doubts.

Characteristics of a rat

Experts believe there are around 64 species of rats, taxonomically classified in the Muridae family of the Rodentia order. Taxonomy is the study of biological groups, classifying living beings based on their descriptions and characteristics. However, despite some similarities, they are not always in the same order or family.

Regarding rats, the most well-known and common ones in various regions of the world are Rattus rattus (black or roof rat) and Rattus norvegicus (brown rat). Both have their origins in Asia.

Other members of the Rodentia order, such as mice and the Norway rat, are also similar but have some differing characteristics. For example, mice are much smaller than rats and Norway rats, which can reach up to 50 cm.

Street rats are considered pests that transmit diseases such as leptospirosis. However, some of them are kept as pets. Of course, you shouldn’t pick up any rat you find and bring it home.

Examples of pet rodents include gerbils and twisters (Rattus norvegicus). These species have been domesticated and are kept as pets. Additionally, there are laboratory animals used in testing medicines and vaccines for both human and animal use. As hamsters belong to the Cricetidae family, there are many differences between rats and hamsters.

Characteristics of hamsters

Is a hamster a rat? This pet is also one of the species in the Rodentia order. Members of the Cricetidae family, like hamsters, have a distinctive cheek pouch beside their heads, which they use to store food.

In the wild, these types of rodents hide in burrows, being nocturnal and solitary animals. In captivity, they do not accept other members in the cage and may fight seriously if the owner insists. A significant difference from rats is that hamsters do not have tails and are smaller.

In the process of domesticating the species, hamsters show themselves to be docile and interactive, especially with their owners. However, like rats and mice, hamsters are also used in laboratory tests.

So, is a hamster a rat?

A hamster is a species of rodent, just like a rat. As mentioned, they belong to the same order, Rodentia. However, while the hamster belongs to the Cricetidae family, the rat belongs to the Muridae family.

So, the answer to the question “Is a hamster a rat?” is no. However, both belong to the same order and share common characteristics. For example, both are rodents and omnivores. Hamsters are domesticated pets, but there are also rats that can be domesticated.

Pet rats

Like hamsters, there are pet rats. The most common types are the twister and the gerbil, both belonging to the Muridae family. To learn more about these two little animals, keep reading.

Twister rat

Also known as a mercol, the twister rat is a calm and interactive pet with its owners. It comes in various colors, has a long tail, and short fur, measuring up to 30 cm.

It is playful and has the same diet as hamsters, consisting of pellets, hay, vegetables, leaves, fruits, seeds, and legumes. It can also eat eggs, small insects, and meat protein.

Gerbil

Another cute rat that has caught the attention of many people is the gerbil, also known as the Mongolian gerbil. It can measure about 15 cm, has a long tail, and is fun and docile.

This pet comes in various colors, such as black, gold, caramel, and white. It is also an omnivore and has a diet similar to that of hamsters and twister rats.

What is the difference between a hamster and a rat: Which rodent is allowed in Brazil?

There are four types of hamsters. However, in Brazil, only the Russian Dwarf Hamster and the Syrian Hamster are authorized by IBAMA. Gerbils and twister rats can also be kept in the country.

Today, you learned the difference between a hamster and a rat. If you enjoyed this article, we recommend reading related articles, as they will surely help you take even better care of your pet if you have or are interested in getting a hamster. Enjoy!