What is a hamster?

Answer 1

A hamster is a rodent belonging to the subfamily Cricetinae. The subfamily contains about 18 species, classified in six or seven genera. Hamsters are indigenous to the Middle East and southeastern Europe. Because they are easy to keep and breed in captivity, hamsters are often used as lab animals and pets

Answer 2

I guess you're referring to the large hamsters? In 1930 a zoologist found a mother and 12 babies in th Syrian desert (north of Israel). They were 8 feet deep in a burrow. By the time the zoologist got back to his lab in Jerusalem, only 3 had survived. These are the ones know as golden fancies. Unfortunately the subsequent litters were used for lab experiments since they multiplied rapidly and were easy to handle. Their cardiovascular system is remarkably similar to humans. By 1938, labs in France, England and USA were using these golden fancy hamsters in experiments. All the present day golden hamsters in captivity are descendants of the original hamsters found by the zoologist, except a few were brought back by travelers and military people. The name hamster comes from an old German word associated with storing food. (The word "hamper" comes from the same root.) One of the characteristics of the hamster, like many rodents, is to stuff their cheeks full of food, which is a hamster-like activity.

These animals are nocturnal, rarely bite unless provoked or startled. They can go for several days without water, however, provide daily fresh water for them, remember they are from the desert. They have great personalities. The long haired or Teddy Bear are extremely gentle, we have 7. If you already have one or are thinking about getting one read the information in Hamsterific.com. I recommend it to everyone with any type of hamster.

Answer 3

a rodent, its part of the mice family, most are really nice. I've raised hamster for about 10 years. But they are really easy to care for

Answer 4

Hamster is a little furry rodent & it cute

Answer 5

A rodent, but can be trained to be a great pet, god I love those cute lil, fluffy lil brats, but sometimes you just wanna squeeze em' cause they make too much damn noise at night!

Answer 6

Small rodent, came from the dessert, as well as gerbils. Furry, cute.

Answer 7

It is a small rodent that people like to keep as pets.

Answer 8

a little furry creature similiar to a mouse but w/o the tail...and much cuter in my opinion.
And btw your chances of contracting a disease from a hamster are slim to none unlike what the ocd freak above me said...just be sure you wash your hands after handling them.

Answer 9

A type of nocturnal rodent.

Answer 10

cute fuzzy pet rodent