6 Small Pets That Could Be Right For You

For animal lovers who don't have the time at home or space for a larger, more active pet like a dog or cat, there are a variety of miniature animals known as "pocket pets." Here is a list of some wonderful little pets you should think about getting for your family because making the perfect choice might be difficult.

1. Gerbils

Gerbils are bold, inquisitive creatures that are not exclusively nocturnal (their day is divided into varying cycles of sleep and play). Gerbils may be quite tame and make good pets in some species.

2. Hamsters

Hamsters are nocturnal creatures that live alone. Though usually friendly, hamsters have a quick reflex and can bite if startled or awakened. They might not be the greatest option for young kids.

3. Rabbits

Rabbits are naturally gregarious and curious creatures that can live in both apartments and houses (they can be taught to use the litter box). Many rabbits dislike being caressed and held, therefore they might not be a good choice for young children.

They need a committed owner who can both provide for their requirements and be a calm, loving pet. A rabbit's average lifespan is between six and eight years, thus adopting these creatures must be carefully considered.

4. Guinea Pigs

You or someone you know has probably owned a guinea pig at some point. They are very popular pets and for good reason: they’re calm, friendly and seem to enjoy interaction with their owners. They make ideal first pets for older children because they are easy to care for and rarely bite. They don’t require much space, so a guinea pig can live happily in a child’s bedroom or a small apartment for an average life span of five to six years. Guinea pigs enjoy the opportunity to run outside the cage and even enjoy being outside. If you do venture outdoors, keep a keen eye on your pet for safety sake.

5. Rats

Rats don't enjoy the same reputation as guinea pigs, hamsters, or rabbits when it comes to being adorable and endearing. But the truth is that when handled gently, domesticated rats are tidy, gentle, and cuddly and are easily trainable. Rats tend not to bite unless they are startled, and because of their greater size, they make better pets for young children than hamsters or mice do.

Though they have a terrible reputation because of their wild brethren, rats are essentially gregarious, intelligent creatures that like the company of both people and other rats. Despite being nocturnal—which means they sleep during the day and are up at night—many of them will adapt to their owner's routine.

6. Chinchillas

Chinchillas may be intelligent, content, and intriguing pets if kept in the right environment and cared for properly. They can be trained to perform simple tricks to earn treats once you get to know them well and they are content in their homes.

It is important to take into account their lengthy lives, which is approximately 15 years. If you are purchasing them for your children, keep in mind that by the time the chinchillas reach adulthood, your children may have grown up and moved out.

Because they are nocturnal creatures, chinchillas require a fairly spacious cage and a dust bath (this is essential for their mental and physical well-being). They create a lot of mess and are ardent dust bathers. Chinchillas require a housemate, either a female and a neutered male or other female litter mates of the same sex (they will usually live harmoniously as long as they have been together since birth).

They require exercise time outside of their cage and a huge cage with several levels for their living quarters. They are also intelligent and vivacious animals.Always use a reputable breeder when purchasing any tiny animal for yourself or your children.Verify that the animals are of the appropriate age to separate from their moms.

Never purchase an animal from a pet store if the staff is unwilling to spend time with you discussing the commitment you are making.