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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Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV)
Category:
Pet Health, Digestive and Oral Health
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) is a life threatening, acute condition that requires immediate medical attention. Certain breeds are more prone to this condition: Boxers, Great Danes, Standard Poodles, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, Dobermans, Weimaraners and Gordon Setters. These breeds are considered
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Canine Parvovirus (CPV)
Category:
Pet Health, Diseases and Viruses
The Parvovirus is known worldwide and causes disease in many different species of animals. Different strains of virus only infect certain types of animals. For example, the Canine Parvovirus (Parvo) will mainly infect dogs and does not cause disease in cats or humans. Feline Parvovirus, a different strain
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Cancer
Category:
Pet Health, Chronic Conditions
Cancer, by definition, is the uncontrolled growth of cells. Any type of cells in the body can become cancerous. Once these cells grow out of control, they take over areas previously occupied by normal cells; sometimes these tumor cells break off and travel to other areas of the body. Wherever these cells
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Prairie Dogs
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Domesticated Animals, Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Domesticated Animals, Prairie Dogs
Prairie dogs are cute, affable creatures. But before taking one on as a pet, check your local laws. In some states, such as Colorado, it's illegal to keep prairie dogs as pets. Mostly, this is because they may spread monkeypox. If you live in a state that welcomes pet prairie dogs, be sure to buy from
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Rats
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Rats
Did you know rats make surprisingly affectionate pets? If you're thinking of bringing home a pet rat, here's what you need to know.
Health
Rats that are bred especially as pets are safe to keep and should be free of disease. But common conditions may affect your rats from time to time. Your veterinarian
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Guinea Pigs
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Guinea Pigs
Curious and inquisitive by nature, guinea pigs make great pets. These little bundles of fur are quite social and enjoy spending time with the people who handle, feed, and groom them. As a pet, guinea pigs are relatively low maintenance, rarely aggressive, and fun to own.
How to Care
Guinea pigs are playful,
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Hedgehogs
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Hedgehogs
Shy animals that roll into a ball when scared, hedgehogs are covered with spiky quills. They're small, clean, and fun to watch so they're quite popular as pets. Even so, these little guys need lots of activity to stay healthy.
Health
Hedgehogs can have health problems, including dental diseases, skin
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Hamsters
Category:
Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Hamsters
Hamsters are cute and adorable. If you had one growing up, your parents probably took care of it. Taking care of them can be challenging; however, once you master the art, it becomes more manageable by the day. Here is how you can take care of your pet hamster.
Bathing and Grooming
Hamsters always stay
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What Your Dog’s Body Language Means
Category:
Newsletter Library
Do you know what your dog's non-verbal signals mean?
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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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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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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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