The Russian hamster is often erroneously sold as a lemming, a completely different species (Lemmus lemmus). This hamster is smaller than the Golden hamster, although the body structure of the two is similar (Fig. 1). The Russian hamster, which originates from the steppes of Russia, Siberia and Mongolia where the climate is cold, has a very thick coat. It is grey with a darker dorsal stripe and lighter coloured hair over the belly, although there are many commercially available varieties, including cream and orange animals. The paws (including the palmar and plantar surfaces) and the tail are covered in hair. The Russian hamster has a single cutaneous scent gland at the umbilicus covered by a waxy secretion; this gland is more obvious in the male and is used for territorial marking (Fig. 2).
The Russian hamster is less aggressive than the Golden hamster and, if it has enough space, it can sometimes be kept in small colonies; nevertheless, this practice is not recommended in order to prevent excessive proliferation and because the female will often attack a mate or its own offspring once these become adult.
The Russian hamster is much more active and lively than the Golden hamster and is, therefore, more difficult to manage. It tolerates cold better than heat and dies at temperatures over 35°C. It is a nocturnal animal, although it has some periods of activity during the day time.
Physiological parameters
| Life span | 1.5-2 years (up to 3 years) |
| Adult weight (males) | 30-50 grams (males are slightly larger than females) |
Reproductive parameters
| Sexual maturity | 2 months |
| Reproductive cycle | Polyoestrous |
| Duration of the oestrous cycle | 4 days |
| Reproductive potential of the female | 12-14 months |
| Duration of pregnancy | 18-21 days |
| Pups per litter | 4-6 (range 1-9) |
| Age at weaning | About 2 weeks |