Guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, mice and rats are all good low cost pets suitable for children but, just as with larger animals, they should not be taken on without adult supervision and an understanding of their needs.The first essential is to provide a residence that is truly desirable. Jean Orpin & Sue Lee look into accommodation for small pets

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Housing can be simple cages with wire clip-on tops and plastic bases, open-topped aquariums with a mesh tops or complicated stacking systems with many layers and lots of plastic tubes or toys. Each animal has special requirements but first some general rules.

Space

Before purchasing any small pet take advice about the size of cage you need. The minimum requirement will probably be bigger than you think and it is cruel to make inadequate provision. Many cages have more than one level and this is an excellent way of providing more floor space.

Temperature

These pets are best kept indoors or where extremes of temperature can be avoided. The cage should be placed somewhere out of draughts and direct sunlight.

Ventilation

Small animals should never be kept in enclosed spaces however you do have to make sure that bars are close enough to be secure particularly until the pet is fully grown. Some small pets will be happy in glass containers with mesh on the top.

Cleaning

A small animal’s home will need cleaning at least once a week so one that is easy to clean will be of benefit to you! Most of these small animals will choose an area for their droppings so you can provide a litter tray.

Bedding

A good pet shop will advise you on the best bedding for different pets. For some, shredded paper is suitable and specially treated recycled materials are also available. Avoid anything that can get into the respiratory system or be harmful if chewed – for example sawdust or cotton-wool. All these animals require a place to make a nest - some cages have an area provided but if not a cardboard box with a hole cut into it makes a good home. It will get nibbled so will need replacing!

Water

All animals must have water that is easily changed and refilled. For most cages sipper bottles that are attached to the bars are the simplest method.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Gerbils

• Life-span 3-5 years

• Preferably keep two of the same sex together.

• They need a deep cage so that they can tunnel and dig – a deep aquarium with a mesh lid is a good option. They are most likely to be active in the evening or night and can be very active - cardboard tubes or other runs will entertain them.

Guinea pigs

• Life-span 4-5 years

• Keep in same sex pairs but not two males of the same age.

• When the weather is good they can have a run outside but do not put with a rabbit or they will fight.

Hamsters

• Life-span 3-5 years

• Only ONE per cage – more than one and they will fight, even to death.

• Bear in mind that they are nocturnal and may make a noise at night so place the cage carefully.

Mice

• Life-span 1-2 years

• Happiest kept in same sex pairs or groups

• They need room to stand up easily and can escape through very small holes so need a small mesh. Don’t replace all of the bedding at the same time.

Rats

• Life-span 2-3 years

• Keep in single sex pairs

• Housing should have a solid floor with plenty of litter. A glass aquarium is not suitable because it doesn’t provide sufficient ventilation. They will benefit from a period of sunlight and should have at least an hour a day exercise outside their cage - handled correctly from birth there is no risk of aggression.

N.B. Chinchillas are not suitable pets for children - they are long lived, require careful attention and are not easily handled.