Many people opt for cats or dogs when thinking about a pet to adopt, but what about a smaller animal? Hamsters, gerbils, mice, and ferrets are all popular pets of a smaller size and can bring just as much joy as larger pets. It is recommended not to get a small pet if you already have a dog or cat, because your dog or cat may try to harm them. For example, it is not the smartest idea to adopt a bird when you have an adventurous cat.
Despite this, cats and birds have co-existed within one home in some households, but it is still quite risky. If you are going to adopt a small pet such as a hamster or a guinea pig, it is best to keep them in a room in an enclosed space where your other pets cannot hurt them. Therefore, hamster balls are extremely useful during their daily exercise sessions. Not only do hamster balls make it easier for the owner to keep an eye on where they are, but it also protects them from any other animals around the house. Be sure to monitor them as much as possible though.
Hamsters
Hamster owners sometimes have multiple hamsters living in one cage, which is why it is incredibly important to invest in an appropriately sized cage for your furry critters. Allowing them to have plenty of space within their cage means they can move around freely without feeling claustrophobic around the other hamsters. Having multiple hamsters means your small animals will have company and you will more than likely see them snuggling up to each other when sleeping. The same goes for rabbits too, as rabbits love to cuddle up when falling asleep in their spaces.
Environment and Health
Smaller pets also require medical attention at times too, and while they sometimes do not need as much maintenance as cats and dogs, they still need to be taken to the vet. Easyvet.com has some great advice for pet owners when it comes to veterinary visits of all kinds.
As mentioned above, rabbits are a popular pet, and many owners choose to keep them outside in their cages, but it is not uncommon to own one without a garden. Similarly, those who live in apartments or those who choose not to let their cats outside can raise a perfectly happy and healthy animal from the comfort and safety of the indoors.
Keep Track of Their Diet
The diets and eating habits of smaller animals may be a little different than dogs and cats, which means you will have to push through a bit of a learning curve when working out a feeding schedule for your small new friends. Some small pets are herbivores and do not need any meat in their diet at all, such as rabbits and guinea pigs. This makes them fantastic pets for vegans and vegetarians who feel uncomfortable about handling meat products or insects for pets such as lizards and bearded dragons. If you can handle feeding live insects to a reptilian pet, then adopting a gecko may be a great option for you.