hamster or gerbil

[algor]

My dd wants a small rodent pet for her birthday, my dh insists gerbils make better pets whereas my friend insists hamsters are superior. My dd cant decide. I have no knowledge of either so please help and tell me the pros and cons of both!

thanks.

[DorothyGherkins]

I would say hamsters are more cuddly. The gerbils I ve come in contact all seemed a bit skittish, but okay if you just wanted to watch them. All our hamsters used to get passed along for a cuddle at telly time, then go for a little ramble along tbe back of the sofa. Love watching them stuff food into their pouches too. I feel hamsters are more interactive, and become mini family members.

[caravanista13]

We've had many of both over the years, but hamsters get my vote every time - they're much calmer and easier to handle. Cuter too!

[algor]

Think the idea that hamsters are more calm and good to handle may swing it. thanks

[9Bluedolphins]

Definitely hamsters. Important to handle them a lot from the start. I think that male hamsters are meant to be more docile. Gerbils are more like wild animals, and too small.

[PfftTheMagicDraco]

gerbils aren't cuddly, too fast! We chose them over hamsters though as they smell less, need cleaning out less and make less noise.