Description and Physical Characteristics of Hamsters

ByKatherine E. Quesenberry, DVM, MPH, DABVP (Avian)

Reviewed/Revised Aug 2020 | Modified Sept 2024

Adult Syrian hamsters are approximately 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) in length, and weigh 4 to 5 ounces (110 to 140 g). Most other varieties of hamsters are slightly smaller and weigh less. Hamsters kept as pets may live from 18 months to 3 years.

A unique feature of hamsters is the outpouching of the cheeks that extends along both sides of the head and neck all the way back to the shoulders. In the wild, these large pouches allow hamsters to gather food during foraging trips and then carry the food back to their nest for consumption later. Pet owners who suddenly see a fully distended pouch for the first time may fear their pet has some sort of fast-growing tumor or swelling.

Another unusual characteristic of hamsters is paired glands in the skin over the flanks. These glands appear as dark spots within the hair coat. They are much more obvious in males than in females. Hamsters use these glands to mark their territory. The glands also play a role in sexual behavior.

Most of the Syrian hamsters sold as pets originated in the Middle East or southeastern Europe. In their native environment, they live in dens beneath the ground where they store food and nest. They forage for food regularly, storing their finds in their pouches until they can carry it back to their dens. Most of the hamsters sold as pets today are the descendants of 3 littermates caught in 1930.

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© 2026Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved.