Little, Furry Critters

By Sandy Kamen Wisniewski
Posted March 24, 2004

We see them at countless pet stores and love to watch them through the clear glass as they go about their daily business of eating, sleeping and scurrying about their home. They are a common pet and live comfortably in many American homes. What I'm talking about are guinea pigs, rats, mice, gerbils and hamsters. These little animals are another option for pet lovers. Guinea pigs are wonderful little pets for children-especially if you do not want the commitment of a dog or cat. Guinea pigs, when handled regularly, are fairly docile, generally do not nip, and can be carried around (supervised or after instructed) by older children (not toddlers). They have interesting little personalities. They get to know their owners and are social to other guinea pigs, when raised with them. They make adorable noises, the most notable squeal when they hear the rustling noises of food coming.

Pigs are most interested in two things, food being first and their people second. They need regular cuddling but hardly any exercise. Their cage must be cleaned regularly otherwise it can get mighty stinky. My daughter has had numerous guinea pigs and many a times I have walked in her room to find her guinea pig dressed up in doll clothes having tea or being cradled and fed with a "carrot" bottle.

Hamsters, gerbils and mice are a fun pet to watch but are more apt to nip than the guinea pig. With a combination of luck and handling you could get a pet that is quite social with you. They are fascinating animals to watch as they build their little nests, run on a wheel and hide their food. Because they are so tiny and active it's important children are supervised when they are playing with them.

Yikes! Now I'm going to talk about rats. Don't cringe when you envision them, they've received a bad rap. Rats are actually very intelligent, social, sweet and gentle. No, I am not kidding. If you can forgive them for their hairless tail you may see to their endearing qualities. They keep their cages clean by storing the dirty stuff in a corner. They are perfectly content cuddling up to you and may even fall asleep in your pocket. All the pets described above need a cage. Your choices are wire, plastic or glass. Guinea pigs do not use wheels or tubes. For them a simple little house to seek refuge, a food dish, proper chew toys and a water bottle is sufficient. The bottom of the cage should have pet bedding that is changed at least once a week.

Hamsters, gerbils and mice need a home that has a secure top so they do not escape. (As a kid my family and I learned the hard way when our 30 some odd gerbils escaped and were running through the entire house. I thought it was hilarious but if you ask my mom I'm sure she wouldn't agree.) These little critters will need a wheel for exercise, food and a water bottle, bedding for the bottom of the cage and any tubes you want to add for them to run through.

When going to a pet store to pick our your new pal there are some things you need to keep in mind. If you decide on getting two pets-which would be nice for them-make sure someone helps you pick the same sex animals so you don't have any future surprises. Also make sure the animal looks healthy and their cage is being kept clean. That way you're more likely to take home a pet that will live a long, healthy life. (Long for them is about 5 years.)

So, with that I hope I have helped you understand these lively, adorable animals.