Rodent Pets: A Comparison
Updated February 21, 2017 | Factmonster Staff 
Take a look at the differences and similarities between popular rodent pets, including gerbils, Guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, and rats. Compare their size, lifespan, and native areas.
| Gerbil | Guinea Pig | Hamster | Mouse | Rat | |
| Length* | 4–6 in. | 10–11 in. | 3–5 in. | 2–3 in. | 6–8 in. |
| Tail | long | none | short | long | long |
| Cheek pouches? | no | yes | yes | no | no |
| Lifespan | 3–4 yrs | 4–6 yrs | 2–2.5 yrs | 1.5–2 yrs | 2–3 yrs |
| Native area | Africa, Asia | South America | Asia, Europe | worldwide | worldwide |
| Fun fact | is a very good digger | squeals like a pig when excited | has poor eyesight but keen hearing | its heart can beat 700 times a minute | can swim underwater |
*not including tail
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