Billings_iStock_000019099622_LargeWhen it comes time for the little people in your family to learn some responsibility and compassion, we often think giving them a small pet to care for is just the thing. After all, pocket pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters are cute and relatively low maintenance, right?

Before you take the leap, though, it is important to look a little more closely at whether pocket pets and kids are a good combination. Learn the facts about how these loveable creatures get along with children.

Little Pets are a Commitment, Too

Even though pocket pets come in a little package, they are no different than any other pet. They need food, water, clean quarters, grooming, and interaction to thrive. Take into account what your child is emotionally and physically able to provide, as well as your level of involvement in the pet’s care. Adults must keep in mind that in the event their child fails to care for their new pet properly, they must either care for the pet or responsibly rehome the animal.

You need to know how long of a commitment you are making as well. Check out the average lifespan for some popular pocket pets:

  • Rabbits live about ten years
  • Hamsters can live between one and three years depending on the species
  • Guinea Pigs live about five years
  • Mice, rats, and gerbils have a two to three year life span
  • Gerbils have a life expectancy of around ten years
  • Ferrets live five to seven years

    • Pocket Pet Realities

    Owning a pocket pet is full of fun, but it isn’t always all snuggles and play. Owning a small exotic pet can definitely have challenges, especially when children are involved. Don’t forget that:

  • Pocket pets can bite – Some pets are more prone to biting, making them less attractive options for smaller children.
  • Some pets are less social than others – Pets like rabbits and guinea pigs tend to tolerate handling better than more active pets like chinchillas and hamsters.
  • Pocket pets can come with allergens – Those pets that require hay in their diet can bring potential concerns for those who have allergies or asthma.
  • Not all pocket pets are active during normal hours – Some pocket pets such as hamsters are actually nocturnal.
  • Some pocket pets are high maintenance – Be it a long-haired rabbit who requires daily brushing, a mouse who needs a friend to be happy, or a ferret who gets stinky quickly, some pocket pets are easier than others to care for.

    • It is important to research the needs of an individual species before taking it on as a pet. Most pocket pets are fairly easy to care for once you know what you need to do, though.

    Pocket Pets and Kids

    Pocket pet and kids can certainly be a good pairing, but effort is required. Small children should be supervised around these little creatures to ensure everyone’s safety. It is also the parent’s responsibility to be sure that the animal is fed and looked after properly.

    All pets have basic environmental, social, and health needs that must be achieved. It is very important to know what your pet needs so that you can help your children have a successful pocket pet experience. Let us know if you need help, we are happy to sit down with you to help you learn more about your potential new pet.