Published on September 15th, 2023
Updated on October 15th, 2025
Hamsters are cute and furry, but there are plenty of other things you should know about them before you bring one home. Here are some informative and fascinating tidbits that might just help you bond with your pet and understand more about their needs.
Yes. Hamsters are nocturnal pets, meaning that they mostly sleep during the day and are most active at night.
Yes, hamsters are intelligent pets. They can learn a variety of behaviors and tasks and can even be trained to perform tricks like running through mazes.
It is possible for hamsters to learn their names or to associate the sound of their name with specific behaviors. They can learn this through positive reinforcement and repetition. To teach your hamster their name, you might repeat their name whenever you give them a treat or call them over to play.
No, hamsters are not blind. However, they don’t have great eyesight compared to other small pets. Their small eyes are located on the side of their heads which gives them a wide field of vision. Syrian hamsters, like many other hamsters, are nocturnal and have developed strong senses, including good eyesight in low-light conditions.
Some do, and some don’t. Hamsters have unique personalities, just like people, and it’s important to respect their individual preferences. If you have a new hamster pet who isn’t used to being held, be sure to handle them very gently and slowly so they can become accustomed to being touched.
The word “hamster” comes from the German word “hamstern,” which means “to hoard.” And hoarding is actually a favorite pastime of our hamster friends.
Learning more about your hamster is the best way to ensure you are providing them with everything necessary for a happy life. Find out more about normal hamster behavior at your local Petco store.
Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.