Are you considering getting rodents as pets but want to make sure it’s the right choice for you? Rodents are cute and cuddly but they’re also unique pets and require some specific care. In this blog, we’ll take you through the best small rodents for pets, from the popular guinea pig and dwarf hamster to the lesser-known degu and African dormouse. We will also guide you through how to choose a pet rodent that fits your lifestyle, who will take care of them, and if they’re suitable for children. Lastly, we’ll share some tips on how to care for your new furry friend to make sure they live a long, healthy, and happy life with you.
Best Small Rodents For Pets – Top 10 List
Choosing a small rodent as a pet is a popular choice for many pet owners. From rats to rabbits, there are plenty of options to choose from. The top 10 small rodents to keep as pets include the Syrian Hamster, Dwarf Hamster, Chinese Hamster, Mongolian Gerbil, Fancy Mouse, African Dormouse, and Common Degu.
These small creatures are low maintenance and can be incredibly affectionate pets. However, it is important to remember that keeping a small rodent as a pet requires responsibility and proper care. Owners should be aware of the common problems seen in mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, and chinchillas, and have a plan in place for diagnosing and treating them.
It is also essential to ensure that both the animal and the owner are protected from the spread of disease. So if you are considering getting a small rodent as a pet, make sure you are prepared for the commitment and willing to provide proper care to keep them happy and healthy.
Guinea Pig
Guinea pigs are one of the most popular small rodents kept as pets, but they require proper care to prevent disease.
Guinea pigs are social animals and should never live alone. It is best to have at least two guinea pigs since they enjoy the companionship of another one of their species. They also need a diet that consists of hay, fresh vegetables, guinea pig pellets, and water.
You will also need to provide an appropriate guinea pig cage with a safe flooring material, plenty of bedding, toys, chew toys, and other enrichment items. Guinea pigs do not require frequent grooming but do need regular nail trims and health checks at least once a month.
Dwarf Hamster
If you’re considering a rodent as a pet, dwarf hamsters might be the perfect fit for you. There are several popular types of hamsters, including Syrian, Teddy Bear, Chinese Dwarf, and “Robo” hamsters, but dwarf hamsters are a great choice due to their social nature and manageable size.
Dwarf hamsters can live up to three years and enjoy being social with same-sex pairs or small groups. They are relatively easy to handle with a gentle touch, despite their reputation for being nippy. However, it’s important to note that hamsters are nocturnal and prefer to be kept without any cage mates due to their territorial nature.
As for housing, dwarf hamsters are small and quick, requiring a cage with bars they cannot squeeze through or a glass aquarium with proper ventilation. They also love running on a wheel, but the sound can be quite audible at night. With proper care and attention, dwarf hamsters can make great pets for those who want a small, social companion.
Gerbil
Gerbils are a great option for those looking for a friendly and sociable low-maintenance pet. With a lifespan of up to 5 years, they are a popular choice among small rodents to keep as pets. Mongolian gerbils are the most common type of gerbil available in pet stores and come in various coat colors.
One great advantage of having gerbils as pets is that they are less smelly compared to other rodents as they don’t drink much and rarely use the toilet. Gerbil owners can also find available resources to diagnose and treat the most frequently encountered problems. Overall, gerbils are a fun and easy-to-care-for option for those looking to add a small pet to their household.
Chinchilla
If you’re considering a small rodent for a pet, a chinchilla might be a great option. These playful and active creatures are affectionate and can make wonderful pets. However, it’s important to keep in mind that they are a long-term commitment and have specific needs.
Chinchillas are descendants of long-tailed wild chinchillas and require a grass-based diet. Their teeth constantly grow, which means they need plenty of opportunity to chew on things to keep them healthy. While they are playful and active, chinchillas prefer not to be held, so taming them takes time and patience, with frequent handling necessary. They also require lots of free space to roam and are primarily nocturnal animals.
Overall, if you have the time and resources to care for a chinchilla properly, they can be a fun and rewarding addition to your household.
Syrian Hamster
If you’re in the market for a small rodent pet, Syrian hamsters are a popular and low-maintenance choice. These rodents are known for their round appearance and solitary nature, making them perfect for families looking for a playful companion. Along with hamsters, other common pet rodents include guinea pigs and gerbils.
When it comes to housing, exercise, and diet, Syrian hamsters require appropriate care to ensure their health and wellbeing. However, the benefits of owning a small rodent pet include their low maintenance and playful personalities. Just keep in mind that hamsters are nocturnal, so it’s best to keep their cages away from where you sleep to avoid the noise of their exercise wheel at night. Overall, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance and playful companion, a small rodent pet may be right for you.
Degu
When it comes to small rodents as pets, degus are a popular and appealing option. These active and affectionate pets require a large enclosure to thrive, but can make great companions for the right owner. One thing to keep in mind about degus is that they have one of the longest lifespans of all rodents, living an average of 5-9 years in a suitable environment. Interestingly, wild degus have a much shorter lifespan compared to their captive counterparts.
However, veterinary care can be a challenge for degus as they are a relatively rare pet and not all vets may have experience with them. Despite this, degus are widely considered one of the 10 best small rodents to keep as pets due to their sociable nature and activity levels. If you are considering a small rodent as a pet, a degu may be the right choice for you.
Fancy Mouse
Fancy mice are a beloved and domesticated pet with a long history. While having a small mammal pet brings responsibility and requires proper care and veterinary attention to prevent disease, fancy mice are relatively easy to care for. They are selectively bred for coloration and size, but can be skittish as pets. However, with proper care and attention, they can make great companions and live up to 30 months.
Fancy mice are among the top 10 best small rodents to keep as low-maintenance pets if provided adequate housing, exercise, and diet. They are nocturnal and can live alone, especially males, but are also social animals. It’s important to remember that any pet requires responsibility and commitment, and it’s important to make sure you can provide proper care before deciding to bring a fancy mouse, or any small pet, into your home.
Fancy Rat
When it comes to small rodents as pets, the fancy rat is a popular choice for its domesticated nature and wide range of colors. Pet rats are intelligent and make great companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners.
Another option for pet rodents are fancy mice, which are selectively bred for varied coloration and size. These mice can live up to 30 months in captivity and make great pets for those who prefer a smaller rodent.
When choosing a rodent to keep as a pet, it’s important to consider their specific housing needs. Rat cages, for example, should be taller than they are wide and provide ample ventilation. Different species of rodents require specific cages, so it’s best to seek advice from knowledgeable staff when selecting a suitable living environment for your new pet.
African Dormouse
Looking for the best small rodents to keep as pets? The African dormouse is a great option for those who have experience in caring for small animals. These social rodents are known for being nimble and active, which can make them difficult to handle for inexperienced owners. They require plenty of climbing space and a secure habitat with ropes and items for climbing in a 20-gallon tank.
Keep in mind that African dormice are nocturnal and are sensitive to light, so they need to be kept away from bright lighting. Despite these factors, African dormice are still on the list of the 10 best small rodents to keep as pets due to their lovely and entertaining personalities.
Chinese Hamster
The Chinese hamster is a small rodent that can make a wonderful pet. These little rodents are very active, so they require a spacious habitat with plenty of toys, tunnels and running wheels. Chinese hamsters are also social and do best in groups as long as they’re all of the same species.
While these pet rodents can be tamed with patience and dedication, it’s important to provide them with a safe environment free from loud noises and sudden movements. With proper care, these small rodents can make excellent companions for both children and adults alike.
Selecting a Pet Rodent That’s Right For You
Owning a pet rodent may seem unconventional, but they can make great pets if properly cared for. When selecting a pet rodent, it is important to consider their specific needs and temperament. Different rodents have different temperaments and social behaviors, so it’s important to seek advice from knowledgeable staff when choosing a rodent. Guinea pigs are a great choice for families as they are docile and social, but they require a large enclosure. It’s also essential to choose a cage appropriate for the specific rodent’s needs. When buying a pet rodent, look for a healthy one with no signs of illness. With proper care and attention, pet rodents can make great companions!
Characteristics of Pet Rodents
When considering rodents as pets, it’s important to choose the right one for you. There are several species of pet rodents, each with their own unique characteristics. Pet rats, for example, are intelligent and have cute faces and long tails. They enjoy being handled and are social creatures that prefer to be kept in pairs or groups. Domesticated mice, on the other hand, can take up to three weeks to trust their owners and are nocturnal. While they are entertaining to watch, they may not enjoy being handled as much as rats do.
It’s important to research the most common health problems for the species you are considering. However, rodents can make wonderful and engaging companions for those willing to invest the time and care needed. So if you’re looking for a small pet to bring into your home, consider a rodent that fits your lifestyle and personality.
Who Will Take Care of Your Pet Rodent?
Selecting a pet rodent that’s right for you involves careful consideration of their care requirements and social needs. While rodents can make great pets, they do require care and assistance, especially for young children. When it comes to selecting a specific type of pet rodent, guinea pigs are a great choice due to their easy-to-handle nature, long lifespan, and non-biting behavior.
At Forever Vets, we understand that pets come in all shapes and sizes, including rodents. That’s why we offer veterinary appointments for pet rodents to ensure that they receive the proper care they need. Additionally, it’s important to note that guinea pigs are social and vocal animals, and thrive in pairs. Before adopting a pet rodent, it’s important to carefully consider their care requirements and social needs to ensure that they are the right fit for you and your lifestyle.
Does It Fit Your Lifestyle?
When it comes to selecting a pet rodent, it’s important to consider if it fits your lifestyle. While rodents can easily fit into apartments and houses, they require daily interaction and monitoring of their health. Additionally, potential owners should anticipate additional costs for housing, food, accessories, and veterinary care.
A clean, healthy, and hypoallergenic bedding material should be chosen and changed regularly to ensure the health and safety of the rodent. Small rodents such as gerbils, hamsters, mice, and rats require care and attention, especially when considering younger children as their caretakers.
Breeding rodents should only be done after considerable expertise has been developed and with the assistance of an exotic mammal veterinarian to avoid perpetuating congenital disorders. Ultimately, owning a pet rodent can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful consideration of your lifestyle and the proper care and attention to ensure the health and safety of the animal.
Rodents and Children
When it comes to selecting a pet rodent, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure that you choose the right one for you and your family. For families with children, it is important to note that rodents can cause injuries if not handled properly, so adult supervision is necessary. However, with appropriate care and consideration, rodents can make great companion pets for children.
If you’re considering a rat as a pet, it’s important to note that they should never live alone and should be kept in groups of two or more. These intelligent creatures can be trained to perform tricks and make wonderful pets when given the proper care and attention. Female rats should also be spayed within the first six months of life to prevent the development of cancer.
Overall, with careful consideration and proper care, rodents can make great pets for families of all kinds. It’s important to do your research and select the right furry friend for you and your family’s lifestyle and needs.
Can You Afford a Pet Rodent?
When considering a pet rodent, it’s important to select one that fits your lifestyle and budget. While they may seem low-maintenance, additional costs such as housing and veterinary care should be anticipated. Guinea pigs are an ideal pet for children or newer pet owners due to their sociable nature and minimal care requirements. However, they do require a larger enclosure and thrive in pairs.
It’s also important to research a pet rodent’s diet before purchasing, as their nutritional needs can vary. While pet rodents have a shorter lifespan than other pets, they still require daily care and attention. When considering a pet rodent, make sure that you can afford their ongoing care and that their needs align with your lifestyle.
Where to Buy? Pet Store Rodents Are Safest
Pet rodents can be a great addition to any household, but it’s important to consider a few things before adopting.
When selecting a pet rodent that’s right for you, consider any local laws regarding ownership. While not necessarily rodents, here’s a list of restricted animals in California.
It’s best to buy pet store rodents as there is a higher likelihood that they are legal to own in your local area.
When selecting pet store rodents, avoid any sick-looking animals and inquire about the seller’s guarantee. Look for signs of good health, including no discharge and proper teeth alignment. While, major pet stores likely sell pet rodents, also consider adoption options available through local shelters and rescues for potentially lower costs.
Tips on Caring for Your Pet Rodent
When it comes to selecting a pet rodent, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and the type of care you can provide. Some tips on caring for your pet rodent include using safe bedding and providing a clean, roam-friendly area for supervised time outside of their cage.
To assess your rodent’s health, examine their head, ears, eyes & nose, oral cavity, lymph nodes, glands, and abdomen regularly. You should also check for up-to-date pet care advice and consult with a veterinarian for advice on treating dental issues in rodents.
Joining a pet owner group is also a great way to learn from experienced owners and ensure proper care for your pet rodent. With these tips in mind, you can choose the right pet rodent for your lifestyle and provide the best possible care for your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest rodent to keep as a pet?
The easiest rodents to keep as pets are hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and mice. All of these small animals make great pets for first-time owners and require minimal care. Read about them in the sections above for more info.
Do rodents make good pets?
Yes, rodents can make great pets for those who are willing to provide proper care. Rats, in particular, are often considered a good pet choice due to their cleanliness, intelligence, affectionate nature, and ability to bond with their owners. While pet rodents have a shorter lifespan compared to larger pets, they are a good option for those who cannot commit to long-term care.
Rats are easy to care for, enjoy being handled, and can form a close bond with their owners. However, they are social creatures and should be kept in pairs or groups. Owners should also be aware that rats are nocturnal and can breed quickly. Overall, rats can make great pets for those who are willing to provide them with the proper care and attention.
What is the easiest rodent to keep as a pet?
While owning a pet rodent can be fun and rewarding, it also requires a big responsibility and commitment in terms of care and finances, as each type of rodent has different needs. Guinea pigs are a popular pet rodent, known for being social and friendly, thriving in pairs, and requiring a large enclosure. Degus are larger, more active, and affectionate, needing a multi-layered enclosure. Some pet rodents, however, are classified as ‘non-domestic’ animals, making it difficult to meet their specific needs. It is important to research each type’s diet and care before making a purchase.
What’s special about pet rodents?
Rodents like gerbils, hamsters, mice, and rats are great pets, especially for animal lovers and children. However, taking care of pet rodents requires a big responsibility and financial commitment.
Gerbils, in particular, are friendly, entertaining, and rarely bite if treated gently. They are a popular pet rodent species, with Mongolian gerbils being among the cutest and most commonly found in pet stores. Additionally, gerbils have low water requirements and produce small amounts of urine, which makes them less smelly than some other rodents.
How Long Have People Kept Rodents as Pets?
Pet rodents have been kept since the start of civilization, with mice first documented as pets in the 1700s and fancy mice becoming popular in England during the Victorian era. Early Spanish explorers brought Guinea Pigs to Europe. Rats are intelligent and social animals that have become great pets and can live up to 2-3 years with a varied diet. Gerbils are clean and friendly pets that have a longer lifespan than hamsters and rats, living an average of 3-5 years.
All pet rodents have relatively short lifespans but make good pets for those who cannot commit to long-term care.
What are the benefits of keeping rodents as pets?
Keeping rodents as pets can offer several benefits. Rats, for example, are intelligent and easily tamed creatures that can live for 2-3 years and enjoy a diverse diet. Pet rodents, in general, are low-maintenance and great for families with limited space or those not ready for a dog or cat. They require chew toys and supervised interaction with other pets.
Gerbils are also sociable animals with low-smell levels that make friendly pets. They typically live for 3-5 years and are available in two common species. Overall, owning a pocket pet like a rodent can provide the pleasure of having a companion without the commitment of a longer-lived animal.
How often do I need to clean the cage, food bowl, water bottle and other accessories for my pet rodent?
To keep your pet rodent healthy and comfortable, it is essential to clean their cage, food bowl, water bottle, and other accessories regularly. Use absorbent bedding and change it frequently to prevent unpleasant odors.
Cleaning the cage up to three times a week with hot, soapy water or white vinegar is recommended. Additionally, grooming your pet regularly and providing them with wood or toys to gnaw on can help maintain their health.
If you notice any infestations, treat the cage with insecticides safe for rodents. Also, make sure to wash your hands before and after handling your pet rodent to prevent the spread of any potential diseases.
Which is better: rats or mice?
Comparing rats and mice as pets can be difficult, as both have unique characteristics. Domesticated rats tend to be more docile and cleaner than wild rats, making them easier to handle. Female mice do well in pairs or small groups, but male mice often fight with each other. Mice need ample space to run around and enjoy living in groups.
Wild rats tend not to be social, while domesticated rats were selectively bred for their looks and docility. Both rats and mice can be kept as pets, but caution should be taken when handling skittish mice. Ultimately, the decision on whether rats or mice make better pets depends on personal preference and lifestyle.
Is it better to get one female or two females together in the same cage?
Rats are social creatures that are better off in same-sex pairs or groups. Female mice can be housed in groups with a single male for breeding purposes, but males are more likely to fight when housed together. Regular handling can help rats become tame and enjoy human companionship.
It is generally best to get two female rats and house them together in the same cage, provided that the cage is large enough and is equipped with adequate bedding, toys, and food sources. Inadequate housing conditions can lead to alopecia and other health issues in mice, so it’s crucial to ensure that your pets have a comfortable living space.
Can I keep more than one species of rodents at the same time in my home?
While it is possible to keep more than one species of rodent in your home, it is recommended to keep only one sex of rodent and breeding should be done with caution. Many rodents can be kept as pets in apartments, condos, and houses.
Two of the most friendly and playful pet rodents are rats and Teddy bear hamsters, which enjoy being handled and played with. Common Rats are also easy to care for and tamable, but it’s important to keep them in pairs or groups as they can breed quickly.
Remember that pet rodents require daily interaction and monitoring of their health and well-being, so be sure to devote ample time to their care.
Are there any dangers associated with keeping rodents as pets, like rabies?
While keeping rodents as pets can be rewarding, there are potential dangers to be aware of. Careful handling is required to avoid injury, and it’s important to make sure other household pets don’t prey on them. Children should not handle a new rodent pet until an adult has ensured it can tolerate interactions calmly.
Rodent pets can also carry serious diseases that can affect humans, and they have a shorter lifespan compared to other pets. It’s important to research their diet and care requirements before purchase.
Additionally, wild rodents can cause property damage and pose risks of disease transmission, so it’s important to take proper precautions if they are present in or around your home.
Conclusion
Before deciding on getting a rodent as a pet, it’s essential to consider the factors that surround it. Factors like the cost of caring for them, the amount of space, and the kind of attention that they require. The best way to ensure your new pet thrives is to educate yourself on their characteristics as a pet, how to care for them, and making sure they are a good fit for your lifestyle.