Pet Choice - How to choose a small animal

Choosing a small animal

Although a hamster or gerbil may seem like a good choice for you and your family, it is still a large responsibility and not one to be taken lightly. There are many things to ask yourself before deciding on a hamster or gerbil, including:

What size and type of cage do they require? What type of bedding will we use?
What type of food should we feed? Do they need fresh food as well as food from the pet store?
Do we have the time and patience to get the animal used to us? Will we still want it if it bites and isn't friendly?
Which breed of hamster do we want? Or are we better suited for a gerbil?

These are very important questions to honestly answer before continuing your research. If you can answer all of these questions then you are on your way to becoming a small pet owner.

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How to choose a small animal

Small animal choice

Hamster or gerbil? Although hamsters and gerbils have many similarities, their differences are very important.
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Feeding your hamster or gerbil. Hamsters and gerbils have similar dietary requirements. Both should be given a high-quality food as well as fresh foods, such as vegetables, canned tuna, and fruits. These fresh foods should be given as treats only as they can make your pet overweight if given too frequently.
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Housing your small animal. You will need to decide which type of cage you want for your small animal before bringing it home. Hamsters and gerbils both can be housed in a variety of cages, from 10 gallon (or more) aquariums to plastic cages with tubes for them to play in.
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Dogs

Choosing a dog is a very big decision, and not one to be made lightly. There are many factors to consider when deciding whether a dog is right for you and your family.

Full dog info

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Cats

Choosing a cat is an important decision as you will be bringing a new member of the family home.

Full cat info

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Rabbits

Although rabbits are a small animal, they require more care than many people realize.

Full rabbit info

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