10 Small Pets That Are Great for Kids

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Owning pets can be an excellent experience for children. Pets provide love and companionship while teaching kids responsibility. Small pets are ideal for children because they require less maintenance. They don’t need to be walked or played with every day, giving kids the chance to demonstrate how much responsibility they are willing to take on. Before rushing out to get a dog or a cat, introduce your kids to one of these small creatures. Any of these small pets would make a great companion.

1. Guinea Pigs

These furry creatures are sometimes confused with hamsters, but guinea pigs are an entirely different affair. Guinea pigs are larger and less delicate than hamsters. They are also considerably more affectionate and sociable. Guinea pigs have a longer lifespan, living anywhere from 4 to 9 years. This provides kids with a great opportunity to watch their pets grow and mature and even learn tricks. Guinea pigs require larger cages than hamsters and a full stock of toys to keep these creatures active. As with all pets, kids should be aware of what constitutes a healthy diet. Guinea pigs should have a consistent diet that includes a good dose of vitamin C for optimal health. Kids should also be taught how to clean up after their pet to ensure a healthy and happy life for both the pets and the owner.

2. Goldfish

The most common pet for young children, goldfish can be a fun and wonderful pet to keep. Kids enjoy feeding the fish and watching them eat, but they should be warned not to overfeed. Overfeeding is often the demise of pet fish, so take the time to explain the feeding schedule to young children. A decent-sized bowl is necessary, and kids will enjoy choosing various colorful rocks for the bottom, as well as any plants or accessories. To keep these fish healthy, make sure to show kids how to clean the tank properly.

3. Ants

There’s something fascinating about watching the life of ants. Kids will find it interesting to watch ants build their homes and go about their work carrying food to their nest. Ant farms never go out of style and don’t require too much maintenance. Ant farm kits can be purchased from pet stores and regular malls, and they come with instructions on how to care for the ants. Kids will get a kick out of using the magnifying pen that comes with ant farm kits to capture their new pets from the great outdoors. Watching the lives of ants can demonstrate hard work and organization. Curious kids will be delighted.

4. Stick Insects

Stick Insects
These insects are delightful to observe. They have a lifespan of only about a year, but they are fantastic to watch. A great pet for older kids, stick insects are fragile and should be handled gently. They can also bite, so gloves should be worn when handling these spindly critters. The bright side is they’re furless, featherless, and all fun.

5. Rabbits

The soft and fluffy rabbit is an excellent pet for your kids. The wide selection of rabbit breeds (there are over 40 breeds) makes rabbits a popular pet for children. Polish, Dutch, and Holland Lops are among the most popular rabbit breeds, and some larger rabbit breeds, like the Flemish Giant, are more tolerant of handling. Since rabbits typically live for about 10 years, getting a pet rabbit is a significant commitment. Rabbits are social animals, so it’s better to buy a few rabbits, but make sure all rabbits are spayed or neutered to avoid unintended breeding. Note that rabbits do not like to be picked up or held, and incorrect handling can lead to a child breaking or injuring a rabbit’s nails or breaking or injuring a rabbit’s legs or back.

6. Hamsters

The amazingly busy and charming hamster is a pet that’s a lot of fun to watch. There are 5 species available, including Syrian, Winter White, Roborovski, Chinese, and Campbell’s. Chinese hamsters are illegal to own in some states, so be sure to check before buying. Hamster lifespans range from one to three years, but the Syrian may live longer. Syrian hamsters need their own habitat as they often fight, sometimes to the death. Hamsters are busy pets and are always on the move. It’s fun to watch them play in a play area or in their habitat. The only downside is the hamster’s sleep schedule. Hamsters sleep during the day and are awake and active at night. Hamsters are self-groomers and usually don’t need anything other than a dust bath.

7. Chinchillas

I’m sure many people would agree that petting a super-soft chinchilla fur is a pleasant sensation! Chinchillas live for about 10 years. Since chinchillas are herd animals, they should be kept in pairs (of the same sex to avoid breeding). Like hamsters, chinchillas are more pets to be appreciated by watching rather than interacting with. Be aware that handling can be difficult, and if you grab their fur incorrectly, it can cause matting. Chinchillas require a dust bath several times a week. They also enjoy chewing and have continuously growing teeth, so to keep their teeth trimmed, be sure to provide them with some chew toys. Like rabbits, chinchillas need to eat hay, so if someone in the house is allergic to hay, a chinchilla won’t be a good pet for your family.

8. Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs make unique and low-maintenance pets for children. These little crustaceans are known for their interesting habit of inhabiting and changing shells as they grow. Hermit crabs require a relatively small enclosure, some sand for digging, and a selection of shells for them to choose from. Kids can observe and interact with hermit crabs as they crawl around their habitat, change shells, and explore their surroundings. It’s important to provide a source of fresh water for them to drink and keep their environment clean.

9. Turtles

Turtles are a slow but fascinating addition to a child’s pet collection. They come in various sizes and species, with the red-eared slider and box turtle being popular choices. Turtles can live for many years, sometimes even surpassing their owners in age, making them a long-term commitment. Children can enjoy observing their turtle’s daily activities, like swimming and basking under a heat lamp. Turtles require a proper enclosure with a basking area, UVB lighting, and a balanced diet that includes both aquatic and land-based foods.

10. Reptiles (Geckos, Anoles, and More)

Reptiles, such as geckos and anoles, are suitable pets for older children who have a keen interest in these fascinating creatures. These small reptiles can be kept in a terrarium or vivarium and come in various colors and patterns. They’re low-maintenance in terms of feeding and don’t require daily interaction. However, kids can enjoy watching them hunt, climb, and explore their enclosure. Proper temperature and humidity control are essential for the well-being of these reptiles, and regular habitat cleaning is necessary.