By Lauren Malmberg, Peoria County Animal Protection Services
Families who would like a pet may not always want a dog or cat. Sometimes allergies, schedules, or other considerations prohibit canine and feline friends so other types of animals might be more suitable. Those who want to share their lives with animals should consider these small pets.
Rats
Rats aren’t often considered companions, but in reality, they make wonderful pets for anyone — including children. They can be great fun; they’re curious, intelligent, and love to play.
Rats should be kept in pairs and two females are best when first starting out. Males can do well together if they’re introduced at a young age. Neutered males can live with females and spayed females can live with males. But don’t keep males and females together; they will quickly breed. The average litter is 12 so we want to be sure to prevent any!
A wire cage of eight cubic feet is a great rat home for a pair. The floor should be solid and have bedding made of shredded or pelleted paper. You don’t want your friend to be bored — keep them busy and happy. Rats enjoy furniture and toys — small boxes or flowerpots to hide in, PVC tubes to run through, and ropes or a tree branch to climb on.
A rat’s diet should consist of rat blocks — a pellet chow formulated for rodents. You should offer small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables every day including peas, broccoli, carrots, apples, and bananas. You can also share your people food like cooked pasta, small pieces of egg or chicken or even pizza crust. Just be sure to limit the amounts to avoid obesity. Of course, fresh clean water should be available at all times.
Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs (or cavies) are not from Guinea, nor are they pigs. As small mammals native to South America, they came to be cherished as pets about 400 years ago.
Guinea pigs require at least eight square feet of floor space in the cages. They’re happier living with another guinea pig, but two will need more space. Their feet are very sensitive so they must be housed on a solid floor — no grids or wire floors will work. Pigs should have paper or pine bedding several inches thick changed twice a week. They love having a little hiding place for when they get frightened — a small box or plastic tube works great.
These little guys can be picky eaters. They usually find their favorite foods early in life and it can be tough to try to change their diets. Commercial guinea pig pellets should make up the bulk of your pet’s diet. Adult pigs should get good quality grass hay for the digestive system — don’t give alfalfa, it leads to obesity. Owners can offer grapes, cucumbers, corn, peas, carrots, pears and fresh, clean greens daily. Pigs should have a water bottle with fresh, clean water at all times. They need a source of vitamin C, too, which can be added to their water if not included in their diet. Good sources of vitamin C include parsley, bell peppers, kiwi, and oranges.
Both Guinea pigs and rats can be very friendly and social, but they must be handled early and frequently to get used to you. You can hand tame them with daily interaction; pick them up (one at a time) with one hand supporting the bottom and the other over the back. As your friend gets to know you, he’ll be ready to snuggle and be petted. Once he’s comfortable, let him run around in a small room or secure area to get some exercise for a bit each day. Out of the cage time is a must — it will keep your friends stimulated and in shape.
And, of course, supervise your children with any pet — even these little guys! Children should be taught how to safely handle any animal; rough treatment (even unintentional) can risk the safety of both animal and child. It’s best if adults handle pets for little children; older youth can usually learn to manage them on their own. Caring for an animal can be a great lesson in responsibility for children; even cleaning cages and feeding gives an opportunity to learn empathy and compassion for others. However, it still remains an adult’s responsibility to ensure proper care for any household pet.
For more information on caring for these pets, contact the Peoria Humane Society at 309-682-9015. Thinking of adding a furry member to your family? Adoption is a wonderful option! Visit our facilities today!
This article is sponsored by Waggin’ Tails Doggy Daycare and Resort, Goodfield, IL. For more information call 309-642-9299 or email waggintailsresort@gmail.com. Waggin’ Tails Doggy Daycare and Resort offers dog boarding, doggy day care and grooming needs. Opening soon: a NEW LOCATION in Peoria!
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