
Hamster facts including classification, mating and longevity are some of the important details hamster owners need to know. Hamsters are mammals that belong to the rodent family. Syrian hamsters and dwarf hamsters are among the most common choice of rodent for a household pet. A hamster’s lifespan can range anywhere from one to four years and the gestation of a hamster is only 16 days.
Other interesting hamster facts include characteristics and behaviors of hamsters. Hamsters are excellent diggers, constructing burrows and chambers for nesting, food storage, and other activities. Most species of hamsters have expandable cheek pouches in which they can carry food and bedding back to their burrow. The word 'hamster' comes from the German word 'hamstern' which means 'to hoard'.
One characteristic that is highly visible in hamsters is their sharp incisors. They have two pairs of incisor teeth in the front of their mouths that never stop growing, necessitating gnawing to prevent the teeth from overgrowing. Hamsters are omnivorous. Their diets include seeds, grains, vegetables, fruits and even boiled eggs or other animal products.
More hamster facts state they have very poor eyesight but a keen sense of smell and excellent hearing. At one point hamsters were considered nocturnal sleeping during the day and waking in the evening and staying active all night. Hamster behavior can vary depending on their environment, genetics, and interaction with people.