How To Know If Your Hamster Is Male Or Female?

Photo Credit: Lianne McLeod

Turn your hamster on its back to inspect the belly. You can cup your hand around the hamster and turn it over onto its back, or you can grasp the hamster by the scruff of its neck. Holding the hamster somewhat upright ("sitting up") will help you establish whether or not testicles are present.

Anogenital Distinction

Other General Distinctions

A few more distinctions exist among all hamsters, though they may be difficult to notice depending on the hamster's age and species.

In comparison to the female, the male's back end is extended and rounder in form.After about four weeks of age, male hamsters frequently have a visible scrotum with testicles, though the testicles can be retracted.Nipples are only found in female hamsters.

Syrian hamster sexing is somewhat easier than sexing other species because the distinctions between males and females are relatively clear. Female Syrian hamsters have nipples that are visible in two rows running parallel to and along the sides of the belly. When the hamster's belly hair is short, the nipples are most noticeable. Male Syrian hamsters have prominent testicles that protrude from their posterior end. The testicles may be retracted (as in all-male hamsters) or buried by fur, but they are usually visible.

Dwarf Hamster Characteristics

Dwarf hamsters have various distinguishing characteristics that can help you establish their gender. 

Male Dwarf hamsters have a smell gland visible in the middle of their belly. The gland's secretions may also cause yellow or greasy discoloration around the gland. Female Dwarf hamsters have tiny scent glands that are difficult to detect. Male dwarf hamsters can also be distinguished by their testicles and the morphology of their hind ends, which taper toward their tails. On mature hamsters, the testicles are most apparent. Finally, male Dwarf hamsters are larger than females, albeit size is an imprecise indicator because it fluctuates with age and animal.

The form of their hind ends is the most distinguishing feature of Chinese hamsters. Males have longer, more rounded tails than females. If you don't have both sexes of hamsters to compare, you'll have to rely on the anogenital distance to make a positive identification.