It is, of course, a good idea for your children to have pets, even when they are very young: it gives them a sense of responsibility and they can learn so much from animals. But you must always supervise this process. And you must know that not every kind of animal is suitable as a pet, although much depends on their individual character, of course. Time for a few tips: these may not always pertain to your child, but may be useful in general.
Which small mammals are possibly less suitable as pets when you have children?
Hamsters
A hamster is not ideally suited as a pet for your child because, among others, hamsters are not very tame and are only active at night. Only the Russian dwarf hamster is also awake during the day, but it must be treated with caution - so, not quite suitable for small children.
Degus and chinchillas
Know what you are getting into when you decide to buy a degu or a chinchilla for your child. Both the degu and the chinchilla are quite sensitive and not easy to care for. A chinchilla also sleeps most of the day and prefers not to be handled.
And what about squirrels?
Some squirrels can be quite tame, but it cannot be cuddled and therefore not suitable for children.
And you must know that not every kind of animal is suitable as a pet although much depends on their individual character, of course.
Which small mammals are definitely suitable as pets for children?
Rabbits and guinea pigs
Your children can keep these animals, as long as you supervise. Rabbits prefer not to be picked up and do not like sitting on your lap. Perhaps not the best choice, then, for small children. The same is true for guinea pigs. Both of these pets are awake during the day.
If you pick up rabbits incorrectly, they may keep kicking with their legs and it is possible for them to break their back in doing so. Falling is more potentially life-threatening for guinea pigs. Be sure you teach your child to pet a rabbit or guinea pig while it is on the ground.
Mice and rat
Rats can certainly be tamed and mice possibly as well. These two also do not mind being picked up. They are, however, mostly active in the evening and at night.
Mice and rats may not be suitable for small children because these creatures are very small and very fast. But, slightly older children seem to like these creatures. It is also not difficult to take care of them, as long as you do so on a regular basis. Teach your children not pick them up by their tails and not to pick them at all without you being present.
Mongolian gerbils
A Mongolian gerbil can be taught to sit on your hand. But petting and sitting on your lap is not possible with these critters. This is another limitation in keeping gerbils when you have small children. Older children often enjoy taking care of gerbils. It does not require much time and it does not have to be done often. Gerbils are active during the day and at night.
Teach you child to only pick up a gerbil when necessary, above their living quarters (so that they do not escape or fall from very high) and never by the tail.
Monitor their feed
Teach your children to feed their pet responsibly: not too much and with premium quality food that is matched to fit their needs. Now and again, you can supplement their diet with a small snack, such as vegetables or fruit ...
Share this article
Tags
Tips & factsRelated articles
{{TagLabels}}
{{Title}}
{{Description}}
{{card-0}}
{{card-1}}
{{card-2}}
{{card-3}}
{{card-4}}
{{TagLabels}}
{{Title}}
{{Description}}
community
Become a member of our community!
- Great prizes
- Unique ideas, tips and tricks
- Free samples & discount coupons
- Test new products