Taking Care of Your Little Pets

Oct 16

Not ready to make a commitment to a dog or cat? That's OK. Numerous little pets can provide you with just as much pleasure. Pet Sitting in Matthews, NC, often offers its services to pet owners who own small pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, mice, and rats. These animals are often lower maintenance than dogs or cats, but they still need some primary care to stay healthy and happy.

Here are a few tips on how to take care of your little pets:

Get a Cage

Your little pet will require a cage. But don't suffocate your canine companion. Instead, select a large enough cage. What size cage should a rabbit, guinea pig, or hamster have? That's a good question. The type of pet determines the appropriate size. The following are the suggested minimum sizes for each pet:

For rabbits, a minimum of 24"x36"x18", but bigger is always better

For guinea pigs, a minimum of 30"x36."

For hamsters, a minimum of 18"x24."

Remember that the more space your pet gets, the better. So, don't be afraid to acquire a larger cage if you have the means and space.

Choose the Right Bedding

Bedding should be used to line the bottom of the cage. There are numerous options available. Do your homework to pick the finest one for your specific pet. Ensure your Guinea pigs' bedding is at least 4-5 inches deep. This enables them to burrow, which they like. Cleaning out the cage on a regular basis is essential. This task entails replacing old bedding with new bedding.

Provide Fresh Food and Water

A diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits is essential for your little pet's health. Make sure to include various items in their diet to ensure they're getting the nutrients they need. Here are some examples of healthy foods you can feed your little pets:

For rabbits, dark leafy greens, carrots, apples, bananas, and blueberries

For guinea pigs, dark leafy greens, carrots, apples, and strawberries

For hamsters, dark leafy greens, carrots, apples, and cooked chicken or turkey (without the skin)

In addition to fresh food, it's important to provide fresh water at all times. A water bottle attached to the side of the cage is the best way to do this.

Give Them a Place to Hide

All animals like to have a place to call their own - where they can feel safe and secure. When it comes to small pets, this usually means providing them with a hiding spot in their cage. For example, you can put a cardboard box in your rabbit's cage for them to hide in. Or, you can purchase a small pet house designed explicitly for guinea pigs or hamsters.

Provide Them With Toys and Enrichment

Believe it or not, small animals get bored just like we do. That's why it's important to provide them with toys and enrichment items in their cage. This will help keep their minds active and prevent them from getting bored. Some examples of enrichment items include:

For rabbits, cardboard boxes, paper bags, and tunnels

For guinea pigs, cardboard boxes, paper bags, and tunnels

For hamsters, exercise wheels and hammocks

Learn How to Groom Your Pet

Grooming a Rabbit

Rabbits, like cats, prefer to be clean. However, this can be an issue if your bunny licks up too much hair. Because rabbits can't throw up, all that fur could cause a hazardous blockage. Brushing your bunny will help you avoid this nightmare scenario. Also, short-haired rabbits require only weekly brushings, whereas long-haired rabbits necessitate more time and effort.

Grooming a Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs don't require a lot of grooming. A weekly brushing and monthly nail clipping should be enough. On the other hand, long-haired Guinea pigs will need to be brushed more frequently.

Grooming a Hamster

The majority of hamsters do not require any grooming. They usually handle it on their own. Some long-haired hamsters, on the other hand, may need brushing.

These are just a few tips for taking care of your little pets. Following these guidelines can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy. Here at Animal People Pet Sitting & Dog Walking, we have the knowledge to help you take care of your specific pet. Contact us today to learn more.

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