Looking for a Small Pet? These Adorable Creatures Could Be The Right One For You!

Owning a pet can be compared to having a child to some degree. You have responsibility for their lives and making sure they are healthy. In return, they provide us with a tremendous amount of comfort and companionship.

There are also studies that suggest there are health benefits to keeping a pet. Pet owners are said to have increased self-confidence and reduced feelings of loneliness. They also have a lowered heart rate and blood pressure. These are all great, but are you really ready to have one of your own?

Choosing one can be a difficult process. There are a lot to consider, including the size of your home, the investments you’re willing to make, and your lifestyle. For first-timers, smaller-sized pets would be most ideal. While there are challenges, they aren’t as great compared to bigger ones.

You’d be glad to know that you have plenty of cute options to choose from. Here’s a shortlist, which includes the basic things you need to know. We hope it helps you choose the right one for you!

Rabbit

Pros:

Rabbits adapt well to humans because they are naturally social and friendly.
Their life span ranges from seven to ten years.
Their trademark includes irresistible floppy ears, soft fur and a button nose.
These cute creatures are very popular with small kids.

Cons:

While rabbits are small and are happy enough to sleep even on the flooring, it is best to have an allotted space just for them. A comfortable crate should work!
You will need to train them in socialization.
They’ll need daily careful handling so they get used to humans. Pet your rabbit for a few hours each day and always make sure they exercise.
They have a sensitive stomach so you’ll need to be mindful of their diet. They would need varied food, which includes fresh vegetables.
While they are popular with kids, these two don’t go well together. They are skittish by nature so be sure to supervise them around children.

Birds

Pros:

Birds easy to care for and require very little investments when it comes to their maintenance.
It is recommended to let them fly free around your home as long as they are properly trained.
Many birds also adapt well to domestic life. This includes finches, cockatiels, canaries, parakeets, and lovebirds.

Cons:

Please note that other birds such as toucans and parrots belong in the wild. They are not recommended as house pets.
Also, do note that some breeds are flock animals. You’ll need to get them in pairs so they can live better.
When choosing a cage, even for small birds, make sure it’s wide enough so your bird can move around. Keep their cage regularly cleaned.

Hamster

Pros:

Hamsters are cuddly and will fit right in your palms.
These adorable creatures can entertain themselves so they don’t need that much attention. Make investments in a variety of toys for them to enjoy.
You can only buy one hamster since they are solitary creatures.

Cons:

Note that hamsters are nocturnal so they will likely be asleep while you are awake. You may hear them rattling around while you sleep.
Hamsters should be handled gently or else they might bite.
Do supervise children when they’re handling hamsters as they can be quite fragile.
They can become carriers of salmonella so wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
Hamsters have a short life span and only live for two to three years.

Ferrets

Pros:

Ferrets are naturally engaging pets with a playful attitude. They are also very energetic.
They also have a long lifespan – about eight to 10 years.
Ferrets get even cuddlier when they get older, starting around three years of age or later.

Cons:

Since they have quite a degree of energy, you will need to prepare your home properly. Always keep an eye out for them or create a special play-cage where it’s safe.
Do let them out of their cage often so they can roam free and get lots of exercise.
Note that they can be smelly because their fur has a naturally musky odor.
Like hamsters, they could bite if not handled gently.

So, did any of our small pets interest you? Remember, bringing one home entails plenty of responsibility. Always do your best to learn more about your chosen pet.