While furry animals are often the first thing to come to mind when people consider buying their first small animal pet, there are many options beyond the common hamster or rabbit. Whether searching for the best small animal for their kids or an unusual small pet to raise for a lifetime, the variety of animals available through pet shops or breeders can be overwhelming.
Small Furry Animals Make Great Pets
Small furry animals are often considered the best small animals for kids. Of course, adults also enjoy hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats, guinea pigs and rabbits, but for parents looking for children's pets, these often come to mind first.
More exotic small mammals are generally not appropriate for young children, but unusual small pets like ferrets, chinchillas and sugar gliders can be some of the best small animal pets for adults or teenagers willing to take on the responsibility of providing proper pet care and supplies.
Reptiles and Amphibians as Unusual Small Pets
Reptiles are another type of unusual small pet that appeals to many people looking for a new animal to bring home. There are many varieties of small reptiles and amphibians commonly kept as pets, along with a wide variety of other more exotic reptiles and amphibians that can thrive with proper care from a committed owner.
Snakes are the most common reptile pet, but most pet snakes aren't considered small animals. Cornsnakes, which grow up to four feet but maintain a slim profile, are one of few snakes truly considered a small animal pet.
Amphibians are animals that breathe through their skin and require both water and land conditions to thrive. The best small animal pet amphibians are probably frogs, especially breeds like the African Dwarf Frog and the White's Tree Frog.
Reptile and amphibian small animal pets aren't relegated to only snakes and frogs. Lizards, iguanas and turtles are also highly popular and may be appropriate for anyone from older children to adults. Exotic reptiles and amphibians, such as geckos, bearded dragons, skinks and poisonous frogs have been showing up in pet stores and breeder's websites, but require a level of expertise and care that is more appropriate for experienced reptile and amphibian keepers.
Small Birds as Pets
Budgies (parakeets), canaries and finches top the list when it comes to small bird pets. All three of these bird types are fairly easy to care for and also tend to be inexpensive.
For those in search of more unusual pet birds, cockatiels, small parrots (parrotlets), lovebirds and conures are all possibilities. Most bird species sold as pets tend to be fairly well established in the pet trade, giving potential owners the advantage of avoiding mysterious illnesses or parasite infestations in their new pet.
No matter what kind of small animal pet a new owner takes home, they should be sure to stock up on all of the necessary small pet care supplies and accessories before committing to a pet. Providing good care to a new pet can make a healthy happy animal and an owner satisfied that they've chosen the best small animal pet for them.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
