Although small mammals are cute and tiny, they can be a big responsibility. If you’re interested in owning a chinchilla, ferret, hamster, hedgehogs, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, and other small mammals, it’s important to learn how to properly care for each of these furry creatures before bringing them home with you.
Consider what size, temperament, and activity level are right for your household so you can choose the option that best matches your lifestyle. Are you looking for an animal that will take kindly to being petted and interact with you? Rabbits or guinea pigs are pets that enjoy cuddling once they’re gotten used to you. Be sure to choose a small mammal that has what you’re looking for and you’ll love having it around. Check out the articles below to learn more about the general care of each of these animals.
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Frogs & Toads
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Amphibians, Choosing Your Pet, Exotics
If you want an interesting change of pace or simply don't have the right environment for a dog or cat, a frog or toad might make the perfect companion for you. First, however, you need to acquaint yourself with these fascinating creatures and their requirements.
Frogs Versus Toads: What's the Difference?
Toads
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Newts
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Amphibians
Are you considering getting a pet newt? Newts may not be the most obvious choice for a pet, but as many veterinarians can tell you, newts are the smart pet choice for a variety of compelling reasons.
Newts are sentient creatures; that is, they are self-aware and capable of forming bonds with humans.
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Salamanders
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Amphibians
Salamanders make great pets. They’re ideal for apartment residents because they’re quiet. They don’t take up a lot of room because they’re small. They don’t need a background to run around like a dog. They don’t require a lot of personal attention, so they’re also perfect for busy working
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Macaws
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Birds
If you've decided to enter the entertaining world of bird ownership, you may be thinking about adopting a macaw. These giants of the parrot world make fun companions, but here are some things you should consider before making that purchase.
What You Should Know About Macaw Ownership
Macaws can make a
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Cockatoos
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Birds
If you're looking for a lively, affectionate, intelligent pet, you don't have to limit yourself to a dog or cat. Members of the Cacatuidae family, better known as cockatoos, can provide those qualities in abundance. However, before you bring a cockatoo home for the first time, you need to understand
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Parrots
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Birds
If you’re thinking of adding a feathered friend to your family, you might be surprised at what it takes to care of this type of pet. While parrots are highly intelligent and fun pets, there are a few aspects that make them more difficult to care for than a cat or dog. Here’s what you need to know
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How to Help Your New Cat Feel Welcomed in Your Home
Category:
Newsletter Library, Cats
Adopting a cat or kitten? Here's what you can do to help your cat adjust to its new home.
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Box Turtles
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Reptiles, Turtles, Choosing Your Pet, Exotics
North American box turtles are mainly terrestrial turtles, although they do spend some time in shallow water (Asian box turtles tend to be a bit more aquatic). Compared to aquatic turtles such as red eared sliders, they are more challenging and complex pets, and are not the best choice for beginning
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Budgies
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Birds, Choosing Your Pet, Exotics
Budgies (budgerigars) are an extremely popular pet bird, and for good reason. These small parrots make delightful pets, and are usually friendly and easy to tame. While they can sometimes be difficult to understand, they are quite capable of mimicking speech. Budgies are sometimes also called parakeets
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Fleas
Category:
Pet Health, Pests and Parasites, Pet Health
A common parasite, fleas are found in almost every area of the world and can be found on dogs, cats, and many other mammals. They survive year to year even in cold climates because they live on pets, in buildings, and on wild animals.
There are four stages to the flea life cycle. Eggs are laid by an
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Hypothyroidism
Category:
Pet Health, Chronic Conditions, Pet Health
Hypothyroidism is the natural deficiency of thyroid hormone and is the most common hormone imbalance of dogs. This deficiency is produced by several different mechanisms. The most common cause (at least 95% of cases) is immune destruction of the thyroid gland. It can also be caused by natural atrophy
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Most Common Digestive Issues in Dogs and How to Relieve Them
Category:
Newsletter Library, Nutrition & Food
Do you know which digestive issues are most common in dogs?
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Glaucoma in Cats
Category:
Newsletter Library, Cats
Do you know the signs of glaucoma in cats?
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Keep Your Pets Safe From Toxic Household Items
Category:
Newsletter Library, Pet Dangers
Do you know which household items can sicken your pet?
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Preventing Obesity in Cats
Category:
Newsletter Library, Cats
Even one extra pound could affect your pet's health. Find out how you can keep your cat slim and trim.
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Pet Dental Care - Tips to Manage Your Pet’s Oral Health
Category:
Newsletter Library, Keeping Pets Healthy
Do you know how to keep your pet's teeth and gums healthy?
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