[Stefan-A]

No reason, really.

I know some people prefer to use gerbils, because they're less smelly to raise. Some snakes that get gerbils, won't accept mice again, so that's something to look out for.

Hamsters on the other hand are relatively fatty food, or so I've been told.

The main difference becomes clear if you raise them. Their litters are small and far apart, at least compared to mice.