Types of Pet Rodents

The rodent family is a large group of animals including such familiar animals as squirrels and animals we see far less frequently like beavers and porcupines. Rodents are characterized by their large, continuously growing front teeth and ability to chew through tough material. Some of the smaller members of this group have been domesticated and are available in pet stores or from breeders. Research the undertaking involved in owning a pet rodent before bringing one home, to ensure your rodent will be healthy and well cared for. All pet rodents need clean housing, special food and constant access to water and shelter.

  1. Hamsters

    • Hamsters are available in many varieties, from the large fuzzy teddy bear hamsters to the small, sleek Russian dwarf hamsters. These pets grow to be 2 to 4 inches long, depending on the variety. Hamsters originally come from semi-desert regions where they are solitary, nocturnal burrowers. As a pet, hamsters require a lot of material for bedding to create a burrow-like den where they can store food and sleep. They also require hard food and objects such as wood blocks to gnaw on. Hamsters can live up to three years.

    Mice and Gerbils

    • Mice and gerbils are the smallest domesticated rodents, weighing around an ounce. These rodents are available in many different colors, but there is only one breed of domesticated mouse and one of domesticated gerbil. Gerbils are similar to mice but have a tufted tail and kangaroo-like hind legs. Both animals can be kept following the same space, food, shelter and toy requirements. One mouse can live alone quite comfortably; however, if you would like a gerbil, they are a bit more social, so buy a companion and introduce the two animals as young as possible. Mice can live to be about 2 to 3 years old, while gerbils may live to be 3 to 4 years old.

    Rats

    • Though they have a reputation for being unsavory, domesticated rats (fancy rats) are a popular pet rodent. They are larger than mice or hamsters, weighing up to a pound and sometimes growing to 18 inches long, including the tail. Rats are very social, making them an easier pet for children to own, as they will be more eager to interact. Rats require a large enclosure and toys to occupy them because they are very intelligent; some owners train their pet rats to perform behaviors on cue. Plan on spending lots of time playing with your pet if you acquire a single rat, or acquire more than one rat, as long as they are the same sex and are introduced at a young age, preferably at 4 to 8 weeks old. A healthy rat can live to be around 3 years old.

    Chinchillas and Guinea Pigs

    • Some people prefer the rounded, tailless bodies of chinchillas and guinea pigs to the long bodies of rats, and these rodents are available as pets as well. Chinchillas are good jumpers with thick silver fur that causes them to easily overheat. They require a dust bath in their enclosure, and are generally nocturnal and not fond of being held. Chinchillas can live to be 15 or 20 years old. Guinea pigs are similar in size to chinchillas, about 2 lbs., though they are available in a wide variety of colors and fur lengths. They can live to be up to 7 years old and do well with a companion guinea pig as long as they are introduced when they are young. Guinea pigs tend to be a little skittish. Both chinchillas and guinea pigs need large enclosures with room to run and large shelters to hide under.