Hamsters are cute and cuddly, and they’re also among the most popular pets in the world. They’re also known for their keen sense of smell and their ability to solve puzzles like mazes. But how smart are hamsters?
Compared to rats, mice, and gerbils, hamsters aren’t the most intelligent rodents. But they can still learn and communicate well.
Their intelligence isn’t limited to problem-solving: They can recognize different colors and patterns, and can even play music. They’re also capable of learning routines and tricks, and they’re easy to train.
They can even teach humans a few simple commands. But hamsters aren’t as fast-learners as other rodents, so you’ll have to make sure you’re patient when training them.
Some hamsters can be trained to recognize their names, but it’ll take some time and patience. To do this, you’ll have to say their name while holding out a treat or whistle. Then, they’ll associate their name with getting a snack and coming to you when called.
They’re also able to recognize their owners and other people they’ve met. This is possible because hamsters have excellent spatial memories, which help them locate food and shelter.
They also use their strong sense of smell to remember different places they’ve been. For instance, female hamsters in heat release an odor that lets males know they’re ready to breed. This olfactory memory is essential for a hamster to survive in the wild. It also helps them find their way back home after a long trip.