Small Mammals as Pets

Guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, mice, and rats – only for committed families

By Four Paws

The term ‘small mammals’ refers to small animals, mostly – but not exclusively – rodents that are kept as pets.

Well-known small mammal pets include guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, mice, and rats. No matter how small they are, every species has needs that must be met by its owners.

Small mammals are only for committed families, this is because pets are entirely dependent on their owner’s care for their whole life in terms of food, shelter, exercise, enrichment, and social companions. If a family wish to take on a small mammal as a pet then they should research all their pets needs to ensure that they can fulfil them, before acquiring a pet.

Small mammals have special needs

Due to their size, small mammals are often viewed as “simple” pets or “starter animals” – ideal for children. They are thought to take up little space, little time and not to require much attention. A sad misconception – as will be covered here. 

Research on small-mammal owners has shown that many are not knowledgeable about providing species-appropriate care for their pets. They are often kept in too small enclosures or cages and not given enough space for free movement and exercise.

Their nutrition is often unsuitable, they are mishandled and many of the social species are kept solitary. In addition, the owners are not providing sufficient veterinary care for their pets, which may result in low life expectancy.

The research also showed that owners were unable to understand the animals’ behaviour. A closer look at the animals’ anatomy, natural behaviour and social needs shows that small mammals are a lot more than ‘easy starter pets’ for adults and children.

• Natural Behaviour
• Anatomy
• Social needs of small mammals
• Small mammals as pets for children

Growing up with a pet has many advantages for children’s development. They gain self-esteem and self-confidence; they learn to build trusting relationships, develop compassion and empathy, and take on responsibility and respect for other living creatures. 

However, children generally cannot look after a pet independently and will need their parents’ support. If a child wishes to have a pet, the decision should be the whole family’s, and the responsibility for the pet should rest with the parents, not the child.

Often, a child will want a pet, but the novelty of having a pet will quickly pass, and they may grow bored with the responsibility as new interests take over. Therefore, acquiring a pet must be the parents’ decision, and they must be happy to be the pet’s main carers for the pet’s entire life.

 If parents are unable to take on this responsibility, then it is recommended not to take on a pet until the time is right. We recommend taking our 30-day small mammal challenge to help you make this decision. If this is the right time, then there are many things you will need to consider, the following information will help guide you in this decision.

Rabbit

Which pet is right for my family?

It is very important that you carry out as much research as possible to find the right pet for your family and lifestyle.

If, after reading this information, you are sure you meet all the requirements for keeping a pet, the question remains: which small mammal best fits your family and lifestyle? Every small mammal species has unique needs, and these must be met if you want to take one on as a pet. FOUR PAWS has compiled information on rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, and mice as pets for further guidance:

• Rabbits as pets
• Guinea pigs as pets
• Rats as pets
• Mice as pets

Adopting a pet from an animal shelter

There are many small mammals in animal shelters waiting for a home. When acquiring a pet, your first stop should always be your local animal shelter. The shelter or rescue centre’s well-trained staff will be happy to answer your questions and advise you as to the right pet for your situation.

Many small mammals are handed into shelters due to being bought for children and by families who no longer want the responsibility of taking care of them, so it is important that you can offer a responsible and loving home for the whole of the animals’ lives.