Rodents as pets: this is awesome and helpful info
Rodents can make delightful pets for people of all ages. They are generally small, easy to care for, and have unique personalities. Whether you’re looking for a cuddly companion or an intriguing creature to observe, rodents offer a wide range of options to fit different lifestyles and preferences. Here’s a guide to keeping rodents as pets, including information on popular types, care requirements, and considerations.
Popular Types of Pet Rodents
- Hamsters
- Species: Syrian (Golden), Dwarf (Campbell’s, Roborovski, Winter White), Chinese – Currently, 18 different species of hamsters exist.
- They produce two to four liters a year. Domestic hamsters which are caged together will act aggressively towards one another as they get older, usually fatally.
- Lifespan: 2-3 years
- Characteristics: Hamsters are known for being solitary, especially Syrian hamsters, which should be housed alone. They are nocturnal and can be very playful and curious.
- Care: Require a spacious cage with a solid bottom, exercise wheel, hiding spots, and chew toys.
- Guinea Pigs
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Characteristics: Social animals that thrive in pairs or small groups. They are vocal and communicate through various sounds.
- Care: Need a large cage with ample floor space, a constant supply of hay, fresh vegetables, and vitamin C supplements.
- Rats
- Lifespan: 2-4 years
- Characteristics: Highly intelligent and social animals that enjoy interaction with their owners and other rats. They can be trained to perform tricks.
- Care: Require a large cage with multiple levels, toys for mental stimulation, and opportunities for social interaction.
- Mice
- Lifespan: 1.5-2 years
- Characteristics: Active and curious, mice are social animals that do well in same-sex groups. They are best observed and can be handled gently.
- Care: Need a secure cage with a variety of tunnels, wheels, and chew toys.
- Gerbils
- Lifespan: 2-4 years
- Characteristics: Gerbils are social and active, known for their digging and burrowing behavior. They do best in pairs or small groups.
- Care: Require a deep tank with plenty of bedding for burrowing, an exercise wheel, and chew toys.
- Chinchillas
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Characteristics: Known for their soft fur, chinchillas are crepuscular and enjoy dust baths. They are social animals but can be shy.
- Care: Need a large cage with multiple levels, dust baths, and a balanced diet with hay and pellets.
- Degus: They become popular pets, though until recently they were seldom found in pet shops. Degus are prohibited in California. They require constant access to hay, and small amounts of pellets and leafy vegetables. Avoid fruits and vegetables high in sugar content as they are prone to two types of diabetes.
Basic Care Requirements
- Housing:
- Cage Size: Ensure the cage is appropriate for the specific rodent species, providing enough space for exercise and exploration.
- Bedding: Use safe, absorbent bedding like aspen shavings or paper-based products. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, which can be harmful.
- Enrichment: Provide tunnels, wheels, chew toys, and hiding spots to keep your rodent mentally and physically stimulated.
- Diet and Nutrition:
- Pellets: Provide species-specific pellets to ensure balanced nutrition.
- Fresh Foods: Supplement with fresh vegetables and occasional fruits. Avoid foods that are toxic to rodents, such as chocolate, onions, and garlic.
- Water: Ensure a constant supply of fresh water using a water bottle with a sipper tube.
- Handling and Socialization:
- Gentle Handling: Start by letting your pet get used to your presence and scent before handling. Be gentle and patient to build trust.
- Social Interaction: Spend time daily interacting with your pet to ensure they remain social and friendly.
- Health and Veterinary Care:
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular vet visits for health checks and any necessary treatments.
- Signs of Illness: Be aware of signs such as lethargy, changes in appetite, or abnormal behavior, and seek veterinary care if needed.
Considerations Before Getting a Rodent
- Time Commitment: While rodents are low maintenance compared to some other pets, they still require daily care, feeding, and interaction.
- Lifespan: Consider the lifespan of the rodent and be prepared for long-term commitment, especially with species like chinchillas.
- Allergies: Ensure no family members have allergies to rodents or their bedding.
- Space: Ensure you have adequate space for a cage that meets the needs of the chosen species.
Conclusion
Rodents can be wonderful pets, offering companionship and entertainment. With proper care, a suitable environment, and regular interaction, they can thrive and become cherished members of your household. Whether you choose a hamster, guinea pig, rat, or another type of rodent, understanding their needs and behaviors is key to a successful pet-owner relationship.
Rodents as pets kept as household pets are hamsters, gerbils, fancy rats, fancy mice, common degus, common chinchillas, and guinea pigs.
Some rodents as pets are prohibited from being kept as pets in certain areas for being invasive. California, Hawaii, and New Zeeland have strict regulations to protect their native environments and agricultural operations.
Circadian rhythm is the name given to the body’s 24-hour “internal clock.” This internal clock controls the body’s sleep-wake cycle.
Crepuscular: active primarily during the twilight period.
Diurnal: active during the daytime.
Nocturnal: active during the night and sleeping during the day.
Featured image: Courtesy Roulla Janse van Rensburg
Content creator: Petrus A. van Tonder
Reference: Wikipedia
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