Getting a pet is a big responsibility, especially when it comes to small mammals like rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs and hamsters. These animals require specific care, from nutrition and housing to social needs and healthcare. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know before bringing a rabbit, ferret, guinea pig or hamster into your home.
Rabbits as pets
Rabbits are social and intelligent animals that need a lot of space and attention.
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Housing : Rabbits need a spacious hutch or rabbit run, preferably indoors or in a secure outdoor environment. They should be able to move around freely every day to get enough exercise.
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Feeding : Hay forms the basis of their diet, supplemented with fresh vegetables and a limited amount of rabbit food. Sweets and too many pellets can cause health problems.
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Health : Regular veterinary check-ups are necessary to keep dental problems, digestive issues and vaccinations up to date.
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Social needs : Rabbits are social animals and prefer to have a companion of their own kind to prevent loneliness.
Ferrets as pets
Ferrets are playful and curious animals with high energy needs. They require specific care and are not suitable for everyone.
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Housing : A spacious and well-ventilated cage is essential. Ferrets need several hours of free exercise in a safe space every day.
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Diet : Ferrets are carnivores and require a diet rich in animal proteins and fats. Special ferret food or raw meat is ideal.
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Health : Vaccinations against distemper and regular deworming are necessary. In addition, ferrets are susceptible to adrenal tumors and insulinoma.
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Social Needs : Ferrets are very social animals and enjoy playing with their own or their own. They need mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Guinea pigs as pets
Guinea pigs are friendly and social rodents that enjoy company and are relatively easy to care for.
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Housing : Guinea pigs need a spacious cage with sufficient bedding and hiding places. They prefer to live in groups and should be kept with at least one other guinea pig.
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Food : Guinea pigs need fresh hay, vegetables and special guinea pig food every day. They cannot produce vitamin C themselves and must get it through their food.
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Health : Dental problems and vitamin C deficiency are common. A balanced diet and regular check-ups are important.
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Social Needs : Guinea pigs are very social and should always be kept in pairs to prevent stress and loneliness.
Hamsters as pets
Hamsters are small, solitary rodents that require less space and attention than rabbits or ferrets, but still require specific care.
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Housing : A spacious enclosure with sufficient bedding is essential. Hamsters like to dig and need tunnels and hiding places.
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Diet : A varied diet of hamster food, vegetables, fruit and proteins (such as mealworms) is ideal.
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Health : Hamsters can suffer from dental problems, diarrhea and tumors. Regular observation is important to detect health problems early.
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Social Needs : Most hamster species are solitary and should be kept apart to avoid fighting.
Which pet is right for you?
Before you get a rabbit, ferret, guinea pig or hamster, it is important to think about your lifestyle and how much time and space you have for the animal. Rabbits and guinea pigs are social animals that require a lot of space and attention, while hamsters are more suitable for people with less time. Ferrets are active and need a lot of interaction.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pet requires good preparation and knowledge about care, nutrition and health care. Whether you choose a rabbit, ferret, guinea pig or hamster, make sure you understand their needs and provide a suitable living environment.
