Exploring the fascinating world of pet rodents leads to a surprising diversity:

Hamsters:

• Care: They need spacious cages, exercise wheels, and a balanced diet of pellets and fresh vegetables. It is essential to provide them with enough nesting material.
• With Children: They require careful interaction and supervision, as they can be shy and prone to stress.
• Longevity: Approximately 2 to 3 years.

Guinea pigs:

• Care: They demand ample space, fresh hay as a fundamental part of their diet, and a variety of fresh vegetables. They are socially active and enjoy toys in their environment.
• With Children: They are generally affectionate and tolerant, which makes them suitable for families with children.
• Longevity: About 5 to 7 years.

Dwarf rabbits:

• Care: They need large cages for jumping and running, a balanced diet that includes fresh hay, and toys for mental stimulation. Socially active, they enjoy the company of other rabbits.
• With Children: They are usually sociable, although they need gentle handling and supervision.
• Longevity: 7 to 10 years.

Rats:

• Care: Demand large cages, toys for mental stimulation, and constant socialization. They are smart and benefit from training.
• With Children: Friendly and intelligent, they are suitable with supervision.
• Longevity: About 2 to 3 years.

Gerbils:

• Care: Environments enriched with materials for digging, sand for baths, and a balanced diet. They are social animals that prefer the company of other gerbils.
• With Children: Appropriate with supervision, although they can be quick and gentle.
• Longevity: 3 to 5 years.

Rabbits:

• Care: Spaces for jumping and running, a diet that includes fresh hay, and toys to prevent boredom. They appreciate the company of other rabbits.
• With Children: Sociable, but need to be handled with care.
• Longevity: 7 to 12 years.

Squirrels:

• Care: They need spaces to climb, a varied and balanced diet. Observing them in the wild is preferable to keeping them as pets, as their adaptation to captivity can be complicated.
• With Children: Not recommended as pets for children.
• Longevity: Varies by species.

Each species has unique needs and characteristics. For detailed information on care, please see our dedicated care sheets.