Male vs Female Hamster: The Differences Explained

Hamsters are some of the most popular small pets to keep and they make excellent first pets for children. They can usually be handled relatively easily and aren’t dangerous creatures. There are many different types of hamsters on the market, but the most common is the golden or Syrian hamster, which we’ll use for the purposes of this article.

Since the males and females are the same species and breed, caring for them is quite similar. However, there are still some notable differences separating male and female hamsters. In fact, you can’t even keep them together safely.

Unlike many creatures, females are larger than males. However, the most significant differences between these little rodents are temperamental. To get a better idea of the different personalities that male and female hamsters display, we will have to take a closer look at both.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Female Hamster Overview

As mentioned, female hamsters are often larger than males, in contrast to many other species. But it seems that they’ve taken on traditionally male roles in other departments as well. However, they exhibit some female-specific traits that separate them as well.

Baby Hamsters

One obvious difference between males and females is that only females can reproduce. If you want to breed your hamsters, you’ll need to get a female. Of course, not everyone plans to breed their hamsters, so you may not even consider this difference.

Musky Odors

Even if you don’t plan on breeding your female hamster, you’ll still have to deal with the consequences. They go into heat every 4 days. During this time, they release odors that many describe as musky and foul. If you’re particularly sensitive to odors, this might make a female hamster a poor choice to keep as a pet.

Harder to Handle

It’s generally agreed that female hamsters are far more temperamental. They’re known to show more aggressive behavior and are considered to be more difficult to handle than males. It’s also true that females are more territorial than males, though both can exhibit territorial tendencies. That is why you can’t house them together. The two will fight, likely to the death.

Suitable for: 

Female hamsters are a bit more challenging to handle than males, so you’ll have to spend more time working with them if you want to hold them. Likewise, they’re a poor option for anyone sensitive to smells since they go into heat every 4 days and can exhibit noticeable odors.

Male Hamster Overview

In most species, the males tend to be the larger and more dominant creatures, but that’s not the case with hamsters. Not only are females larger, they’re often more dominant, territorial, and aggressive.

Easygoing & Easy to Handle

Male hamsters don’t show the same level of aggression that females are known to display. They can be territorial, though rarely as territorial as females usually are. Similarly, males aren’t known to show as much aggression. They are generally much calmer and friendlier.

It’s widely accepted that males are easier to handle than females. Since they’re less territorial, they’re less likely to get defensive or aggressive when you enter their space to handle them.

Grooming & Potential Hair Loss

Males have thicker, fuller coats than females. If your hamster’s coat grows out long enough, it will require regular grooming to maintain. You may not have expected to devote time to grooming your hamster’s coat, but with some males, it’s necessary.

There’s another drawback to this longer coat. Like humans, male hamsters’ hair thins as they age. Eventually, this can result in full-blown hair loss.

Suitable for:

Males are generally friendlier and less aggressive than females. Males are a better choice if you want to handle your hamster often. They’re a better choice for children also, who are more likely to trigger a female hamster’s aggression or territorial behaviors. But be aware that there might be more care involved with a male if their coat grows long enough.

Temperamental Differences

Caring for male and female hamsters is very similar. So, the main difference that will help you decide which to buy is their temperaments. Males are friendlier creatures that are considered to be easier to handle. If you’re looking for an affectionate furball to cuddle up with, you might have better luck with a male.

Females are larger than males, but they also have more aggressive tendencies. They’re far more territorial, and they might display that when you reach into their enclosure to get them. You’ll need more patience if you want to take care of a female hamster.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Neither sex is a bad choice, but they’re different. If you’re purchasing a hamster as a first-time pet for a child, a male is a better choice. They’re more docile and friendly. Plus, your child will have a much easier time holding a male since they’re not as territorial or aggressive.

Females can still make excellent pets, but you have to be aware that they will require a bit more patience. They also might be accompanied by foul odors. Of course, you will need a female and a male if you want to make little hamster babies. Just remember not to keep them together since it will result in fighting and injuries.

Featured Image Credit: Top – Shutterbug75, Pixabay | Bottom – Shutterbug75, Pixabay