Small Animal Encyclopedia — 78 Species Directory
Encyclopedia of popular small animal species with care guides, traits, and pricing.
Featured Small Animal
Showing 28 of 78 species(25–28)
Silver Fox Rabbit
Oryctolagus cuniculus
Large rabbit with stunning silver-tipped fur that stands upright when stroked. Known for a gentle, docile temperament ideal for handling.
LargeDocileRare breed
© Adamjennison111 at English Wikipedia / CC BY 2.5Teddy Bear Hamster
Golden hamster
Long-haired variety of Golden Hamster. Fluffy coat resembles a teddy bear. Gentle and easy to tame, ideal for beginners.
Beginner-friendlyLong-hairedTeddy bear-like
Teddy Guinea Pig
Cavia porcellus
Plush-like short curly coat resembling a stuffed teddy bear. Round body with a sweet, gentle temperament. Prices start around 5,000 yen at pet shops and run 10,000-30,000 yen from breeders.
Beginner-friendlyCurly coatGentle
© Dirk Goldhahn / CC BY-SA 2.5Winter White Hamster
Phodopus sungorus
Djungarian subspecies that often turns entirely white in winter. Beautiful pearl white color with a gentle disposition.
Beginner-friendlyWinter coat changePearl white
Related Content
Small Animal FAQ
- Can beginners keep small animals?
- Hamsters and guinea pigs are relatively easy to care for and popular with beginners. Rabbits and chinchillas are also tame-friendly; choose gentle individuals for a smooth start.
- How much do small animals cost?
- Hamsters cost 1,000-3,000 yen, rabbits 10,000-50,000 yen, guinea pigs 5,000-15,000 yen, chinchillas 30,000-80,000 yen, and hedgehogs 15,000-40,000 yen depending on species.
- How long do small animals live?
- Hamsters live 2-3 years, rabbits 7-12 years, guinea pigs 5-7 years, chinchillas 15-20 years, hedgehogs 3-5 years, and ferrets 6-10 years.
- What supplies do small animals need?
- Basics include a cage, bedding, food dish, water bottle, and a hideout. Depending on species, you may also need a wheel (hamsters), chew sticks (rabbits), or a dust bath (chinchillas).
- What should I check when buying small animals?
- Look for a shiny coat, active behavior, clear eyes and nose, and a clean rear. Getting parent information and temperament details from the breeder is reassuring.