There are pets for every lifestyle. For some people, an athletic dog to go jogging with every morning is ideal; others may want a cat who lazes on their lap, a colorful bird whose antics keep them company, or a turtle or school of fish that provide relaxing observation. Small animals – small mammals for the purpose of our pet guide – typically fall somewhere between “lap cat” and “school of fish,” in that they can be handled with care and are also delightful to observe in their own environment as they play – tunneling, batting balls, spinning their running wheels, and more! While caring for any animal is a serious responsibility, requiring daily attention and care, a gerbil is definitely a lower maintenance pet than a Belgian Malinois, which provides opportunities for different lifestyles or for teaching less experienced pet owners. Many adults credit being responsible for hamsters, guinea pigs, or other small animals as children as an experience that led to a lifelong love of pet ownership – but of course, grownups can enjoy them, too!
Ferret
Gerbil
Guinea Pig
Hamster
Mouse (Fancy)
Rabbit
Rat (Fancy)Just as the family dog or cat became ubiquitous with American culture after the end of World War II, as people have moved from rural to urban areas, into smaller homes and apartments, our choice in companions has changed, as well: hamsters, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats and other furry critters have become mainstream pets over the last four decades, much to the delight end education of millions! Learn more >>
There is evidence of mice being selectively bred dating all the way back to 1,100 BCE, but rats have only been selectively bred for a few hundred years -- and much of that time, for baiting (a bloodsport that is now illegal in most countries). But due to the rat's ability to reproduce quickly and careful selection by their owners, domesticated rats have become noticeably different from their wild counterparts in a remarkably short period of time. Physically, domesticated rats generally have much wider variety of coats, smaller bodies, larger ears, longer tails, and they reach sexual maturity earlier; psychologically, they are generally much calmer around humans -- even affectionate toward their owners -- while being less cautious and likely to startle.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
