Re: Do Chinese Hamsters have scent glands on their flanks? Or just midventral?

Hello,

The Chinese hamster is scientifically named Cricetulus griseus. Like all hamsters, Chinese hamsters have scent glands that are probably used by males to mark territory; males typically have very prominent scent glands which secrete a musky odor. Females also have scent glands that are associated with the estrus cycle and may indicate when females are ready to mate.

Some species of hamsters, such as the common Syrian hamster, have scent glands along the sides, or flanks, of the body. Other species, including the Chinese hamster, have a single scent gland on the belly of the body. So, according to veterinary scientists who study hamsters, the Chinese hamster does not have scent glands on its flanks.

Allison J. Gong
Mad Scientist

Reference: Veterinary Practice News