Small Animal Encyclopedia — 78 Species Directory
Encyclopedia of popular small animal species with care guides, traits, and pricing.
Featured Small Animal
Showing 4 of 78 species
© Ilyusha isakov / CC BY-SA 4.0Abyssinian Guinea Pig
Cavia porcellus
Distinctive guinea pig with rosettes (swirled fur patterns) all over the body. Active and curious personality.
Beginner-friendlyRosettesActive
Dwarf Hotot Rabbit
Oryctolagus cuniculus
Small rabbit with distinctive black eyeliner markings on white fur. Active, curious, and popular for its compact size.
Beginner-friendlySmallEyeliner markings
© Lynn Gardner / CC BY 2.5Harlequin Rabbit
Harlequin rabbit
Unique rabbit with distinctly different colors on each side. Clown-like color patterns with a bright, sociable personality.
MediumUnique patternSociable
Russian Dwarf Hamster
General term for small dwarf hamster varieties. Active and curious with multiple color variations. Compact and adorable.
Beginner-friendlySmallActive
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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.