Care guide

Caring for small animals

Small pets still have big needs: the right companions (or none), a roomy and safe enclosure, the right diet, daily attention and a vet who knows their species. Here's what they all share.

Find a vet first

Not every clinic treats rabbits, rodents, ferrets, hedgehogs or sugar gliders. Find one that does before your pet comes home, and book a check-up in the first few weeks.

Small animals hide illness. Not eating, not pooping, hunching up, sitting still, or breathing hard can all be emergencies; call your vet the same day.

Company: together or alone

Some small animals need a companion of their own kind (rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, gerbils, degus and sugar gliders). Others, like Syrian hamsters and hedgehogs, must live alone. Check your species' guide.

Introduce new companions slowly and on neutral ground, and keep males and females apart unless you plan a litter.

Housing

Most pet-store cages are too small. Give as much floor space as you can, with places to hide, things to chew and, for burrowers, deep bedding.

Use paper-based or aspen bedding. Pine and cedar shavings give off fumes that harm small animals' lungs.

Keep enclosures out of direct sun, drafts and the kitchen, and away from cats and dogs.

Food and teeth

Feed a diet made for your species, and change food slowly. Ask the seller what your pet eats now.

Many small animals have teeth that grow all their lives. Hay and safe chews keep them worn down; overgrown teeth stop an animal from eating.

Handling

Let your pet settle for a few days, then build trust with treats and short, gentle sessions. Always support their back end, and sit on the floor so a fall is short.

Never pick up rodents by the tail; their tail skin can come away.