Cats and dogs aren’t the only animals that make wonderful companions. Clients looking for a small pet need to know that there are many other types of animals that can make a wonderful addition to a family. Blending the needs of the animal to the wishes of the home will help to determine which pet is best!

Small and Furry

Little, soft, cute, and curious are words that best describe this first group of excellent pets. The most common animals in this category consist of:

• Gerbils
• Guinea pigs
• Hamsters
• Mice
• Rats

Costs Involved
The price to purchase one of these pets is not that exorbitant, but clients need to be advised that the initial purchase of the animal is not the only cost involved in their ownership. For healthy living, they will require items appropriate for them, such as the following:

• Cage
• Water bottle
• Food dish
• Food
• Vitamins
• Bedding

More Tips
It is important that clients understand that these animals are from the Rodentia order and have incisors that continuously grow. If not provided with appropriate chewing items to keep their teeth worn down, they will chew whatever is within their reach, including such things as:

• Electronic cords and cables
• Wooden chair legs
• Carpet
• Clothing
• Plastic water bottles
• Plastic cage parts

Veterinary Needs
Clients should also be aware of the recommendation that these pets be seen by the veterinarian once a year for:

• Dental check to make sure their teeth are wearing evenly
• Physical check for:

Scales and Claws

Veterinarians with clients looking for something that is a little less furry can point them in the direction of one of the many types of reptiles that make excellent pets. Not typically associated with being cuddly, reptiles are known for showing emotions and appear to have an ability to bond with humans, albeit in a more primitive way.  

The most common animals in this category include:

• Snakes
• Lizards
• Turtles

Costs Involved
Veterinarians should point out that reptile care often requires a commitment for a long period of time, and that the equipment that is appropriate for the size of the reptile when it is brought home may become too small and eventually need to be changed. 

For healthy living, reptiles require an environment which may include the following:

• Terrarium with lid
• Basking bulb for warmth
• Appropriate bulbs:
• Heating pad or heating tape
• Tank thermometers
• Humidity system
• Appropriate food, as some require live food
• Vitamin and mineral supplements
• Bedding/substrate
• Hibernating area
• Plants and rocks to imitate hiding areas

Veterinary Needs
Annual veterinary checks are recommended for these pets, and clients should be aware that developing a relationship between their pet and the vet is needed. A yearly veterinary exam that includes a full physical will help to determine the following:

• Provide a way to monitor the pet’s weight changes
• Detect onset of diseases
• Point out any observed nutritional deficiencies
• Provide an opportunity to discuss behavioral and husbandry issues
• Observe skin injuries that indicate heating pads or bulbs are too warm
• Observe for injuries or lesions that indicate bites or scratches from food source
• Observe any abnormal changes in health from the previous year

Safety First!

These are just two of the categories of niche pets that are very popular and make great companions. Veterinarians should advise that these pets will thrive best when in households with children that are mature enough to understand how to be quiet and calm around the animal. When startled, stressed, or when being held in a tight or uncomfortable position, these animals have been known to bite or scratch in an effort to flee. Households with young children should always supervise any interaction between the children and pet to ensure the safety of both.

 

Load more comments