Choosing the perfect small pet can be a hard decision. Especially when it comes to guinea pigs and hamsters. Both of these cute adorable small pets can add extra happiness to your life, but they each have unique needs, temperaments, and care requirements.
When deciding between a guinea pig and a hamster, it’s important to consider size, lifespan, and social needs. Each of these factors can help you choose a pet that fits well with your families lifestyle and home.
Table of Contents
Size and Space Considerations
Guinea pigs are typically much larger than hamsters. You’ll also need to have at least 2 guinea pigs as they’re social creatures. You will need to allow for enough space for 2 to freely roam around as they need lots of exercise.
The recommended sizes for guinea pigs starts at 7.5 square feet minimum, but 10.5 square feet preferred for two guinea pigs as per the USA’s Humane Society recommendation. But where possible you always want to give your cavy’s a larger cage than needed, especially if you have boys (male guinea pigs are called boars).
While hamsters are a lot smaller than guinea pigs they still need a large enclosure. Pet stores might try to sell you a tiny little cage such as the one pictured below, or one with tons of tunnels on it that looks cool. But these pet cages are too small, and will create a stressful enviroment for your hamster.
Hamsters run miles in the wild, so a large enclosure ensures they’ll able to get their steps in. They also need space to burrow, so whichever enclosure you use needs to allow for enough substrate bedding for your hamster to create burrows in. Without ample space and a safe place to burrow, hamsters will get stressed and try to escape.
Hamsters should live in cages that are a minimum size of 100cm x 50cm x 50cm as recommended by Germany’s Veterinary Association for Animal Welfare. But this is the minimum size, so ideally you want to give a hamster a larger space.
Lifespan and Commitment
The lifespan of each pet varies significantly. Guinea pigs live about 5-7 years, but they can live up to 14 years with proper care according to the Smithonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute.
Hamsters, on the other hand, have shorter lifespans, usually around 2-3 years.
Think about how much time you are willing to dedicate to your pet. A guinea pig requires a longer commitment, while a hamster may suit you better if you prefer a shorter-term relationship. But in either situation, you must be willing to fully commit to your pet for it’s lifespan and remember that losing a pet is always painful.
Social Needs and Behavior
Guinea pigs are social animals that thrive on companionship. They often do better in pairs or small groups. If you adopt a guinea pig, consider getting at least two to keep them happy.
It’s also advisble to have your piggy’s of the same sex – so two girls (called sows) or two boys (called boars) to avoid unwanted pregnancies. You can also have two girls plus 1 boy living together but the boy must be neutered to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Female guinea pigs are rarely sprayed unless they have health issues. If you do want to have sows and a boar living together, you’ll need to get the boars neutered.
Hamsters are generally solitary creatures. They prefer to live alone and can be territorial. This means you may only need one hamster, making them easier to care for in some situations.
There are some occasions when dwarf hamsters such as the roborovski dwarf hamsters can live together. This is usually when they’re from the same litter and were together from a young age.
Bedding for Guinea PIgs and Hamsters
We covered cage size earlier but another important factor is the bedding.
Here’s a table comparing the types of bedding opts for hamsters and guinea pigs:
| Bedding Type | Guinea Pigs (Pros) | Guinea Pigs (Cons) | Hamsters (Pros) | Hamsters (Cons) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aspen Shavings | Safe, dust-free | Less absorbent | Good for burrowing | Can be too rough |
| Paper-Based Bedding | Soft, absorbent, dust-free | Expensive, frequent changes needed | Soft, good for burrowing, odor control | Light, may be kicked out |
| Fleece Liners | Reusable, soft, comfortable | Requires regular washing | Not recommended | Does not allow burrowing |
| Pine or Cedar Shavings | Historically used (if kiln-dried) | Respiratory issues from aromatic oils | Some still use kiln-dried | Respiratory health concerns |
| Hay | Essential for diet, some burrowing | Not absorbent, messy | Enjoys foraging | Not suitable as primary bedding |
| Pelleted Bedding | Highly absorbent, odor control | Hard and uncomfortable | Absorbent | Hard, unsuitable for burrowing |
So to summarise:
Guinea Pigs: The best bedding choices are paper bedding such as kaytee or carefresh, aspen shavings, fleece liners (or even noodle bath mats, which is what we use alongside kaytee paper bedding). Avoid pine and cedar shavings unless they are kiln-dried and dust-free.
Hamsters: The best bedding choices is either paper bedding such as carefresh or kaytee, or aspen shavings. Avoid fleece liners since they don’t allow for burrowing, and be cautious with wood shavings unless they are of safe, treated varieties. You’ll need to give your hamster about 30cm deep bedding so they can burrow.
Check out this video to see what we mean we we say that hamsters burrow, it’s a great example of their natural behaviour.
@hamster.henry.ch My hamster loves to borrow & gnaw on stilts in her hamster cage 🐹😉. #hamsterburrow #hamsterburrowing #hamsterburrows #hamstertunnel #hamstertunnels #teddybear #teddybearhamster #teddyhamster #syrianhamster #funnyhamster ♬ Cute and fun food – zomap
Exercise and Play Area
Both guinea pigs and hamsters need time to move around and play. Creating a secure play area outside their cage is essential. For guinea pigs, a large, safe, enclosed space works best, as they enjoy exploring and socializing.
Their outside area should have tunnels, hay, and hiding spaces as guinea pigs are prey animals. Don’t use a hamster/guinea pig ball for ginuea pigs as they can cause them to get their feet trapped, injured and end up developing bumblefoot.
Hamsters love having access to running wheels, areas they can burrow in, tunnels, toys that they can climb up etc. These all help provide them a fun way to exercise.
Do not ever put a hamster in a “hamster ball”, as they are stressful and dangerous. Hamsters are prey animals and need to hide. The ball stresses them out as they’re constantly running trying to find somewhere to hide, become exhausted and can’t escape. Their feet are small and fragile, and can get caught in the air holes.
Ensure your pets have a mixture of open space and interactive toys in their habitat. Having more floor space allows them to explore and stay active. Regular exercise keeps them happy and healthy!
Dietary Needs and Feeding
When caring for guinea pigs and hamsters, it’s important to know their different dietary needs. Each pet requires specific nutrients to stay healthy and happy. Understanding these needs will help you provide the best diet for your furry friend.
Essential Nutrients and Supplements
Guinea pigs require a diet rich in vitamin C. They cannot produce this vitamin on their own, so it must come from their food. Fresh fruits and vegetables are great sources. Foods like bell peppers, kale, and oranges are not only delicious but also boost their immune systems.
Hamsters have different dietary needs. They are omnivores, which means their diet includes seeds, grains, and some fruits and vegetables. Hamster pellets such as Oxbow Essentials are designed to provide balanced nutrition. These pellets should make up a significant part of their diet to ensure they get enough protein and fiber.
Both pets also need hay. For guinea pigs, timothy hay is a preferred choice. It helps with digestion and keeps their teeth healthy. Hamsters can also benefit from hay, but it should not be their main food source.
Feeding Schedules and Portion Sizes
For guinea pigs, feed them fresh hay daily and provide fresh vegetables every other day. Aim for about 1 cup of veggies per guinea pig. Since they need vitamin C, including leafy greens daily is key to prevent deficiency.
Hamsters should be fed once daily. A small amount of pellets—roughly 1-2 tablespoons—is enough. You can also add a few treats like small pieces of fruit or vegetables to their diet. Remember to avoid citrus as it may upset their stomach.
Monitoring their weight and health is crucial. Adjust portion sizes based on their needs. Always provide fresh water to keep them hydrated and healthy.
Health and Wellness
Taking care of your pet’s health is essential for their happiness and longevity. Understanding the common health issues and the importance of veterinary care can help keep your furry friend in great shape.
Common Health Issues
Both guinea pigs and hamsters can face health challenges. Common health issues for guinea pigs include:
- Respiratory Problems: These can be caused by poor ventilation or exposure to dust. Watch for sneezing or labored breathing.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is key. Obesity can lead to health problems.
- Diarrhea: This can result from dietary changes or stress. It’s crucial to monitor their food intake.
- Tumors: Older guinea pigs may develop tumors, requiring regular check-ups.
- Inner Ear Infections: These can affect balance and behavior. Look for signs of head tilt or unsteady walking.
- Bumblefoot: This is a bacterial infection that can develop in guinea pigs due to their delicate feet. They’re likely to develop it if given rough bedding, or walking over caged surfaces.
Hamsters also face health issues, though they may differ slightly. It’s important to observe your pet’s behavior and weight closely for any signs of trouble.
Always remember to ask a vet for any advice regarding your pets health.
Importance of Veterinary Care
Regular veterinary visits are vital for both guinea pigs and hamsters. These check-ups help catch health issues early. A vet can provide tips for a balanced diet and correct habitat setup to promote good health.
A thorough examination includes checking for:
- Signs of Illness: Catching respiratory issues or tumors early can make treatment easier.
- Weight Monitoring: Your vet can help you assess if your pet is at a healthy weight.
- Vaccinations: While not as common, some issues may require preventative care.
When you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior or health, don’t hesitate to consult your vet. Keeping in touch with a veterinary professional ensures your pet remains healthy and happy.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of a guinea pig or hamster involves daily attention to their needs. Proper care ensures they stay healthy and happy. You’ll need to establish a routine that covers cleaning, feeding, and grooming.
Cleaning their cages is essential. For guinea pigs, you should spot clean daily and do a full clean weekly. This involves removing bedding, washing the cage, and changing food and water dishes.
Hamsters are a bit easier. They need daily spot cleaning, cleaning bowls, changing food, water and cleaning out any area they use for a toilet. But with hamsters you only need to do a full cage clean once or twice a month. It’s also recommended to give them a small amount of the original unsoiled bedding back, so their cage smells similar.
Grooming and Hygiene
Grooming your pets helps keep them clean and healthy. Guinea pigs have longer fur and need more regular grooming. Brush them at least once a week to avoid matting. Use a gentle brush to make it a pleasant experience.
For hamsters, grooming is less frequent. They are good at keeping themselves clean but may need a bath with a small amount of water if they get particularly dirty.
Maintaining good hygiene involves checking for signs of illness. Keep an eye on their fur, skin, and eyes. Healthy pets will have bright eyes and clean, shiny fur. Regular handling will also help you notice any changes that may need attention.
Teeth and Nail Maintenance
Guinea pigs have continuously growing teeth! Their teeth can grow excessively long if not kept in check, leading to discomfort, difficulty eating, and potential malnutrition. To ensure their teeth remain at a healthy length, guinea pigs should be provided with a constant supply of hay, which is essential for their diet and helps naturally wear down their teeth. Giving them wooden chew toys or toys such as apple sticks can also help keep their teeth short.
Nail maintenance for guinea pigs is also important. Their nails can become curled or overgrown if not trimmed regularly, which can cause discomfort or lead to injuries. Trimming a guinea pig’s nails every few weeks is recommended, using small animal nail clippers or scissors specifically designed for small pets. It’s important to be cautious while trimming to avoid cutting the quick, which can be painful and cause bleeding.
If you can’t manage it yourself, you can also ask your vet to cut your piggy’s nails for you.
Hamsters, just like guinea pigs, also have teeth that grow continuously. Hamsters are natural chewers and are more likely to self-regulate their tooth length by gnawing on a variety of objects. Providing chew toys, wooden blocks, or untreated natural wood is essential to help hamsters wear down their teeth naturally.
But it’s still important to monitor their teeth regularly to ensure they do not become too long or misaligned, which could lead to eating difficulties or mouth injuries. If a hamster’s teeth appear overgrown or if it shows signs of discomfort while eating, a vet visit is recommended.
Hamsters typically do not require regular nail trimming because they naturally wear down their nails through digging and climbing activities in their enclosure. However, in some cases, hamsters may develop overgrown nails, especially if they are less active or older. If this occurs, their nails can be carefully trimmed using small animal nail clippers, similar to those used for guinea pigs. If you can’t do this yourself, you can ask the vet for help.
DIfferent Characteristics
When choosing between a guinea pig and a hamster, understanding their unique traits is essential. Both pets have distinct characteristics that affect their care and your experience as an owner.
Physical and Behavioral Traits
Guinea pigs belong to the Caviidae family and can grow up to 10-12 inches long, weighing around 1.5-2.5 pounds. Their larger size gives them a sturdy appearance. They are also quite social and tend to have docile personalities.
In contrast, hamsters are smaller, weighing about 2-6 ounces, and are part of the Cricetidae family. They can vary in size depending on the species. Hamsters can be shy, often preferring solitary environments.
Both pets make different noises, with guinea pigs known for their vocalizations, including wheeks and purrs. Hamsters might squeak or grunt, but are generally quieter.
Understanding Activity Patterns
Guinea pigs are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during the early morning at dawn and in the late evening at dusk. During these times, guinea pigs engage in most of their foraging, exploring, and social interactions, making it their natural peak activity periods.
Piggy’s can also be active during the day, as they tend to be light sleepers and wake up throughout the day. So you can expect them to be lively and playful at different times.
Hamsters are also crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the early morning and late evening, around dawn and dusk. Hamsters tend to sleep for most of the day and night, becoming lively and engaging in activities like running on their wheel, digging, and exploring their environment during these twilight hours.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the difference between guinea pigs and hamsters, and make an informed choice.
If you’d like to learn more about hamsters, we recommend checking out these sites:
- Hamster Weflare – Tons of information on caring for hamsters
- Happy Hamsters UK – Care guides, checklinks, and if you’re in the UK they also run a hamster rescue and have vet reviews
- Little Grabbies Find a Rescue – list of hamster rescues in the USA
If you’d like to learn more about guinea pigs, make sure to check out our guides which cover a range of topics such as what can guinea pigs eat? what bedding should you use? and more.
If you decide to get a guinea pig, please consider adopting as there are hundereds of piggy’s in need of homes. You can find a local rescue with our guinea pig rescue finder.
