When we refer to small rodents, hamsters and rats tend to be compared. However, although they all belong to the same broad category, there are many distinct differences between hamsters and mice. Today, let's unveil the mystery of this pair of "mouse brothers" and see how they differ from each other.
1. Appearance characteristics
First of all, in terms of appearance, hamsters and rats have very different characteristics. Hamsters usually have a rounded body, short ears and tail, and thick hair. They come in a variety of colors, and some even show beautiful markings. Rats, on the other hand, are relatively elongated, with long ears and tails, and a more monochromatic coat, usually grayish-brown.
2. Habits
In terms of habits, hamsters and mice are also significantly different. Hamsters are nocturnal animals that spend most of the day resting and only become active at night. They love to nibble on things, so they need to be provided with specialized teething toys. Rats, on the other hand, tend to be active at dusk and dawn, and they are more adaptable to the environment and can survive in a variety of environments.
3. Feeding methods
For people who like to have pets, hamsters and rats are also kept differently. Hamsters are generally docile and easy to domesticate, making them suitable as family pets. They have high requirements for the breeding environment, which requires plenty of space to move around, suitable feed and clean drinking water. Rats, on the other hand, can also be raised, but they are not suitable as family pets because they are sensitive and prone to spreading diseases.
Through the introduction of the above aspects, we can see that there are many differences between hamsters and mice. Whether it is in terms of appearance characteristics, living habits, breeding methods and nutritional value, they all have their own unique characteristics. Therefore, when referring to these two animals, we should not simply treat them as the same creature. Hopefully, this article will help you better understand the difference between hamsters and rats, so as to get to know these cute little animals more deeply.