Rats! Mice! Gerbils! Guinea pigs! Hamsters! Oh my!  All of these little critters can make fun and easy to care-for pets.  Remember that they do reproduce very quickly and early, so make sure to get same-sex roommates if getting more than one, unless you intend to breed them!  They all like a variety of pellets, fresh or dried veggies, fruits, whole grains, cooked legumes, greens, seeds, and nuts.  Guinea pigs must have a fresh source of vitamin C every day, to prevent scurvy, or a defect that can cripple them.  A small slice of orange, kiwi, strawberry, or other berries can provide this without the additional sugar found in many commercially available vitamin C treats. 

            Aquariums make good enclosures, just make sure the flooring is kept clean so that ammonia smells from urine do not build up and affect their breathing.  Similarly, cedar chips and strong-smelling bedding is often too strong for these little animals, even if they smell nice to us.  Tunnels and wheels can provide entertainment and exercise for these animals.  Many appreciate small cardboard boxes or paper tubes to hide in and play in.  The cardboard is fun for them to chew on as well.  All rodents have teeth that continuously grow throughout their life.  These teeth are sharp if they do decide to bite.  Siberian hamsters, although adorable, have a reputation for being sharp biters!  Instruct children to handle these tiny creatures gently, so they are not squeezed or dropped. 

Many small mammals like the small plastic balls that allow them free range of the house while keeping them safe.  As with all pets, they should always be supervised when out of their safe enclosure.  Monitor their coat for any changes or parasites.  Occasionally they can get parasites or infections, although they are generally fastidious groomers with soft clean fur. 

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