Small Animals

  • Behavior and Training

    Natural Behaviors Problem Behaviors Training Natural Behaviors Small animals exhibit a few instinctive behaviors that are part of their genetic makeup. Understanding these will help you be more effective in managing your pet's care. Nocturnal. Most rodents are nocturnal, which means they are active

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  • Choosing Your Pet

    There are a variety of small animals that make great household pets. These little critters are engaging, quiet, relatively clean and easy to handle. Many come from the Rodent order, which is made up of 28 families and more than 2,000 species. Rodents can be found everywhere in the world except for Antarctica

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  • Daily Care and Maintenance

    Rodents depend on routine to reduce stress. You need to plan your routine before your bring your pet home. These small animals operate on 12-hour cycles. You need to know whether or not your animal is nocturnal, diurnal or both so you can schedule accordingly. You also need to know how frequently your

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  • Diet and Nutrition

    Water Food Supplements Water Water is a vital component of every small animal's diet. Because of their small size, it does not take long for them to dehydrate. You need to be particularly attentive to water needs of densely-coated small animals when temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The

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  • Handling and Grooming

    Handling Because rodents are so small and easily frightened, they need to be handled gently. Until your pet becomes familiar with you, scoop it up with a paper cup or small flower pot to remove it from its cage and give it enough support. Once socialized to you, scoop up your pet with one or two hands

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  • Health Care

    Vet Visits Vaccinations Spaying and Neutering Common Health Problems Vet Visits Rodents are susceptible to a lot of infections, so you'll need to line up a veterinarian before your pet gets sick. It is advisable to take your small animals for a vet visit when you first obtain them to make

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  • Housing and Equipment

    Cages Bedding/Substrates Hide/Sleeping Box Toys and Activities Carrier Cages Choosing the right cage is important to make sure your pet has the space and components it needs to create a satisfying home. It is important for creating the microenvironment small animals need for optimum comfort

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  • Physical and Mental Stimulation

    The activities you provide for your small animal serve both as a form of exercise and mental stimulation. In addition to companionship, your little critters need activity for their health and well-being. Most activities relate to their burrowing and chewing instincts. Your pets will play together and

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