Choosing a Small Pet

Article from: My Family UK

Thinking of buying a pet rabbit or rodent? When making your choice, consider the animal’s temperament, how long it will live, and what space and equipment you will need to provide.

1) Rabbits

The fluffy and loveable rabbit should ideally be bought and kept in pairs, as they do tend towards loneliness and depression if left alone for too long. Rabbits need a lot of space and safe outdoor access, but they can be litter trained and do make good house pets providing that all electrical wiring is covered.

The facts

• Live five to ten years
• Need a hutch and run, clean water, and hay for food and bedding
• Eat grass and hay, commercial food, fresh fruit and vegetables
• Long-haired breeds require grooming

2) Guinea Pigs

A native of South America (where they are eaten) the sociable guinea pig is best kept in groups, but not with rabbits as used to be normal practice. Although prone to disease, they are less likely to become sick with proper diet and housing. Usually housed outdoors, although not a necessity.

The facts

• Live four to eight years
• Need fresh water, a hutch and run, hay bedding and twigs to gnaw
• Eat commercial Guinea Pig Food and vegetables
• Long-haired varieties need grooming and bathing

3) Rats and Mice

Rats are intelligent and interesting to watch, but need more space than mice. Because they are so easily-tamed, mice are always which are better for smaller homes. Keep in pairs or groups but separate genders to avoid a population explosion.

The facts

• Live two to three years
• Need fresh water, a cage with toys for exercise, bedding and floor covering
• Mice eat commercial mouse food, fresh fruit and vegetables
• Rats eat almost everything including rat food, fruit and vegetables, cooked eggs, chicken and fish

4) Hamsters

The most common type, the Golden or Syrian hamster, comes in a variety of colours despite its name. They are more active at dawn and dusk and require careful handling. They are often happy to live alone and will hibernate if the room temperature drops below 10°C.

The facts

• Live one to two years
• Need clean water, a cage, burrowing material, a nest box, toys for exercise
• Eat commercial hamster mix, fresh fruit and vegetables
• Long-haired varieties need regular grooming

5) Gerbils

Bright and inquisitive pets known as escape artists. Unlike many rodents, they are active during the night and day. They need careful handling to avoid undue stress and should be kept in single-gender pairs or groups.

The facts

• Live three to four years
• Need clean water, a cage, burrowing material, nesting material and toys for exercise
• Eat rat and mice food, fresh green vegetables, some sunflower seeds and peanuts

Further Information

For further information, and for more great ways to have fun with your family, log on to www.myfamilyuk.com. With a huge collection of articles covering everything from child safety to rainy day activities, you’ll find all the help, guidance and entertainment you need to be a great parent. Go to My Family UK now!