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
Degu
Octodon degus
Highly intelligent and social rodent from Chile. Called the singing mouse of the Andes for its vocalizations. Diurnal and easy to bond with.
IntermediateIntelligentSocial
Merino Guinea Pig
Cavia porcellus
Cross between Crested and Texel guinea pigs. Features a rosette on the crown with soft curly fur all over. Gentle and bonds well with owners.
Curly coatRosetteGentle
© Marcel Burkhard alias cele4 / CC BY-SA 2.0 deSpiny Mouse
Spiny mouse
Unique mouse with spiny, stiff fur on the back. Highly social and can live in groups. Known for remarkable skin regeneration.
IntermediateSpiny furSocial
Sugar Glider
Sugar glider
Small marsupial that glides using a membrane. Sweet-loving and bonds closely with owners. Nocturnal and highly social.
IntermediateMarsupialGliding
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.