Adopting other animals
There are many species that you can consider adopting to join your family, beyond just cats and dogs. However, it’s very important to remember, that just because an animal is small, doesn’t mean that they don’t have big and complex needs!
Read on to find out more about how to care for some of the most popular species kept as pets in Australia.
Guinea Pigs (Cavies)
Guinea Pigs are interesting and fun little characters. When provided with everything that they need, they can be wonderful pets for your family. However, they are small and delicate and can be injured or stressed if handled inappropriately.
It is important that they are handled properly and gently, and interactions with children should always be supervised. Because they are social animals, it is necessary that more than one pet guinea pig be kept for companionship.
Rabbits
Domestic rabbits are inquisitive, fun-loving and make very appealing pets. They are social animals who, with a little time and patience, can be house and toilet-trained and make great companions. However, they are small and delicate and can be injured or stressed if handled inappropriately. It is important that they are handled properly and gently, and interactions with children should always be supervised.
Rabbits need regular exercise outside their hutch in a safe area under supervision. Rabbits should always be kept in compatible pairs or groups. Please also be aware that some states and territories do not allow rabbits to be kept, so it’s important to know what the conditions are in your local area.
Ferrets
Mice & Rats
Mice and rats can make excellent little pets and are very popular with children. However, they are small and delicate and can be injured or stressed if handled inappropriately. It is important that they are handled properly and gently, and interactions with children should always be supervised.
Mice are inquisitive and generally gentle, provided they are handled appropriately. They need a large house and opportunities to exercise. They are social creatures and should not be kept alone.
Rats are intelligent, affectionate creatures. They like to spend a lot of time resting and grooming themselves, and their personalities will thrive with lots of physical and mental stimulation. Rats love company, so keeping a same-sex pair is ideal. With regular handling, rats will happily curl up on your lap for a snooze and enjoy exploring the world perched upon your shoulder.
Birds
Birds are social and should be kept in at least a compatible pair. Birds should have access to a flight aviary or be given regular opportunities to fly in a safe environment (such as indoors).
Birds are small and delicate and can be injured or stressed if handled inappropriately. It is important that they are handled properly and gently, and interactions with children should always be supervised.
Credit RSPCA Knowledge Base
