The Most Suitable Animals For Children

If you have children at home and they want a pet, it’s always good to follow some recommendations so that the pet they choose not only fits the size of your house or apartment, but also your children’s available time and needs.

There are some animals that are more apt than others to be friends with children. The success or failure of the relationship will depend on the most appropriate choice.

The correct decision depends on multiple factors, such as the pet’s life expectancy, interactions with other animals and your child, and the personal grooming needs that a particular animal may have.

Below, we’ll  share some tips about pets that, for different reasons, are perfect for kids.

rabbits

Fluffy and furry, rabbits are perfect for our little ones and can be purchased in different sizes and breeds.

In fact, there are over 40 types of rabbits recognized by breeders’ associations. Among some of the most popular are rabbits known as the Dutch and Polish, or the Giant of Flanders, which tends to be more tolerant of handling.

Although the life expectancy of these animals can vary a lot, some of them live approximately 10 years, which means that adopting this type of animal requires a significant commitment on the part of their owners.

Rabbits are social animals that, in general, live much better if they are grouped with other members of their species.

If you choose to adopt a rabbit as a pet, make sure they are all neutered or spayed to prevent unwanted breeding.

Rabbits, in general, don’t like to be handled harshly.  With their nails, they might want to fend off this situation and scratch or injure a child. That’s why it’s always good that your nails are cut and that you maintain the care you require.

So does your coat. Regular brushing is essential to keep it in good condition. Long-haired rabbit breeds generally require daily brushing.

And remember: these furry ones eat hay, so if there are people with allergies at home, be careful. Maybe you should choose another animal.

hamsters

Hamsters are active at night and can sulk during the day, especially if they are enjoying a pleasant nap.

They are very fun little animals, maybe not so much to interact with their owners, but to be watched.

There are five species that are perfect as a pet. They can be medium, like the Syrian , or small, among which are Roborovski , Winter White, Campbell and C hinese .

The lifespan of hamsters extends from one to three years, although in the case of Syrians it may be a little longer.

Small breeds get along very well in groups, but sometimes there may be fights between them. Therefore, a separate habitat will be needed.

A disadvantage of hamsters is the sleeping schedule of these little ones, which is the opposite of a child’s. They tend to be awake and busy at night and sleep during the day.

They are your own hairdressers and therefore their owners do not need to be too attentive to your beauty needs.

Guinea pigs

The cuy ( Cavia porcellus )  is an animal that enjoys interaction with its owner. Often they ask for food with an endless shriek.

There are 13 breeds of guinea pigs that are perfect for living in the home. They usually live for about five years.

It’s always fun to sit with one of these furry little ones, the only inconvenience is that they urinate or defecate frequently, so it’s good to be prepared for some accidents that may arise.

Personal grooming needs for short-haired breeds include occasional brushing. Long-haired ones need more frequent brushing.

These, as well as rabbits, should eat hay,  so if there are allergy sufferers in the house, better refrain from adopting this animal.

Ferret

The ferret is a furry ball of energy. When he’s awake, he’s very curious and when he’s asleep, it’s best not to disturb him. They live between 5 and 7 years old and have a great personality.

Some are shy, while others are more sociable. If they live with others of their kind, they must be castrated.

Their personal grooming needs are slightly greater than that of other small animals, as they not only require regular brushing of their fur and teeth, but they also need to be bathed regularly.