Breeds and species
Rodents
Small, endearing animals for indoor keeping: hamsters, guinea pigs, chinchillas, degus, gerbils, rats and mice. Discover their species, character and care.
0 animals in this selection Each has a story.
Which rodent should you choose?
Do not choose by appearance alone. Temperament, size, activity level and daily care needs matter just as much.
Think about how much time you can spend on grooming, training, play and companionship. Beginners often do best with breeds whose needs are clear and manageable.
Be careful with broad health claims: some breeds may be more prone to certain issues, so speak with a veterinarian or a responsible breeder.
Frequently asked questions
Which rodent suits children best?
The guinea pig is the largest, calmest and least likely to bite, so it usually suits children better than a hamster.
Are rodents active during the day?
Hamsters and degus are mostly nocturnal or crepuscular, while guinea pigs are active by day. This strongly affects how much you will actually see your pet.
How big should the cage be?
Always larger than the packaging suggests. Too little space is the most common cause of stress and repetitive behaviour in rodents.