Lovable Creatures At A Small Size
No matter how much you want a dog, sometimes your home just doesn't allow for it. If you're working with a small space and are looking for a new pet friend to have around the house, we've got great suggestions that'll accommodate your needs. Here are 20 small pets you can consider that don't take up much space at all.
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1. Hamster
Cute, small, and generally easy to maintain, hamsters make great introductory pets if you're looking to try your hand at taking care of an animal. They don't require much space at all, just a small cage filled with accessories, and they typically like to mind their own business. Just be mindful that they have a relatively short lifespan, around 1.5 - 2.5 years.
2. Rat
Sadly, rats often get a bad rep (especially for being connected to the Bubonic Plague) but they actually make adorable and sweet pets that are perfect for small homes that don't have much space. Not only are they very intelligent, they're also very social animals meaning they can develop amazing bonds with their owners. It's time to look past the negativity and see rats as the great pets they really are!
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3. Guinea Pig
If hamsters are a little too small for your liking, guinea pigs are the larger, yet equally fluffy and soft alternative. If laid-back and carefree is what you want in your small pet, these rodents love sleeping and eating all day. They're incredibly gentle which make them excellent for kids, you just have to be careful with their health - they are very prone to health problems.
4. Turtle
If slow and steady is your way of life, why not get a turtle to match your speed? These animals are often marketed as low-maintenance, easy pets, but just beware they require specific environmental conditions and care. But even though they might take a bit more effort to own, they're worth it. After all, they're going to be around for a long time!
5. Hedgehog
Hedgehogs might look scary with their pointy quills, but really, they're cute and cuddly animals that make for great pets. When treated well, they can develop close bonds with their owners! They do require a bit more care and maintenance though, so they might not be the best option for kids. Especially when handling them requires very special training.
6. Fish
Fish are often seen as boring, easy-to-care pets, but while maintenance can be easy when you do the proper reading, there are still many important steps you should be following. And with so many different types to own, you can build your own wondrous aquarium! You might not be able to play and cuddle with them, but that doesn't make them any less amazing!
7. Rabbits
While some rabbits can grow to be quite large, much more than you'd imagine, there are plenty of small kinds that will better fit what you're looking for. Don't be fooled though, rabbits might be a smaller pet but they require just as much attention and care as say, dogs! But if you're someone with a lot of patience and want to build a lovely bond with an animal, don't knock them off the list.
8. Mice
If the idea of owning a rat still scares you a bit, start off with their smaller counterparts: mice. Generally smaller in size, lighter, and more approachable, these pets require minimal space, are typically easy to care for, and still look cute! Just make sure you regularly clean their cages - they're known to get quite smelly!
9. Gerbils
Another animal coming from the rodent family, gerbils are less commonly thought of but definitely deserve more love. Relatively quiet compared to other pets, these animals can be great for families that want something low maintenance, energetic and full of personality, and look as adorable as a hamster.
10. Chinchilla
Looking for something a bit more exotic and uncommon? Have you ever considered a chinchilla? These rodents can live up to 10-20 years and are quite the clean and gentle pet. Thanks to their reserved nature, they serve as better pets for adults who can demonstrate the care and restraint needed.
11. Budgies
If you're fascinated by birds but are worried about handling them, budgies are a great option to start out with. Not only are they smaller in size, they're regarded for being one of the easier birds to take care of and can be highly sociable. You can even train them to do various tasks!
12. Sugar Gliders
If you're an experienced pet owner who is prepared to take on a more exotic, wild animal, a sugar glider is an option up for grabs. We wouldn't recommend these to any first-timers though as they require specific care to thrive. While they can be cuddly, playful, and loving pets, they're also more unpredictable than others on this list.
13. Hermit Crabs
Nothing wrong with starting out easy! And if you're really mindful of space, nothing will take up less room than a hermit crab. These tiny crustaceans are not the kind of animal to play and cuddle up next to, but they're fascinating creatures to observe and look after.
14. Tarantula
Let's just say, tarantulas are definitely not for the weak. If you have even the slightest fear for the typical house spider, these creatures are not for you. But if you're interested in these creepy crawlies, tarantulas are known for being rather gentle. Of course, you have to do your research before getting one - there's going to be a lot to learn before you become a full on tarantula owner!
15. Geckos
Coming in a variety of colors, shades, and patterns, geckos can make for an awesome pet at home if you do proper research before getting one. As long as you treat them with care, these small lizards are quite docile and gentle. Just don't expect the same affection you'd get from a dog.
16. Kingsnakes
Though most people will recoil at the thought of owning a snake, if you love these mysterious reptiles, kingsnakes are what most people recommend starting out with. Coming in vibrant hues, they're quite the gorgeous pet, just make sure you handle them properly. Provide them with the right environment, food, and attention, and they'll be easy to care for.
17. Ferrets
Though a bit more effort will have to be put in to keep a ferret happy in the home, you'll be rewarded with a very lively and sociable animal to have as a friend if you do. These are definitely high-maintenance animals that can't be left alone, so make sure you have the time and energy before committing to buying one!
18. Degus
If you live somewhere that allows degus as pets, many people online have stated that they can be excellent companions if you know how to care for them. As another rare option on this list, you'll have to carefully look up proper degu care before considering buying one. After all, these are highly social creatures that need attention you'll have to provide.
19. Bearded Dragons
We're certain you've seen bearded dragons all over social media at this point, so by now you should know these creatures have gained the attention of people all around the world. They make for very interesting pets, and can be surprisingly affectionate despite their appearance. Just make sure you carefully address all their needs and living requirements, including how to handle their shedding phase.
20. Millipedes
Again, this pet option definitely isn't for everyone. However, there are plenty of people out there who love and are interested in insects, making millipedes an intriguing choice. All you really have to do is provide them with a safe environment and you can go on and watch them do their thing! They're quite simple pets to keep around, which is perfect if low effort is what you want.
