These generally include guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice and a few other less numerous species.
On a general note these animals are often considered to be ideal children’s pets being easier to look after than cats, dogs and rabbits and requiring less attention. In many cases this is just not true and it is sad to see the number of individuals of these species that are brought in to see veterinary surgeons after suffering periods of neglect. Remember that small mammals do not exhibit pain or distress in ways that we might expect. In particular they will not make obvious pain-related sounds; a more usual response would be hiding and lethargy.
So, small in size does not mean small in needs. Just like a dog or cat small furries will benefit from careful feeding, sensible exercise, frequent visual inspection and, most important of all, lots of human contact.
Probably the most important factor determining the health of these animals is their diet. There are many commercial diets available which vary in quality. Pelleted diets are generally superior as they prevent selective feeding of the tasty morsels which tend to be the unhealthiest bits! Supplementation with hay and/or fresh fruit and vegetables is also necessary depending on species.
It is impossible to go into much detail so here are a few points of interest about some of them.
Guinea pigs
These generally make excellent pets; they live for 4-8 years and are normally human-friendly making a large selection of different clicks, squeaks and calls. Guinea pigs are social animals and will do best in pairs or small groups. Make sure you know they are of the same sex or neutered though!
Just like people, they cannot make Vitamin C so it is prudent to supplement their diet. This can be done by adding a commercial preparation to their water and feeding fresh foods like broccoli, apple and tomatoes.
Common problems include skin mites, dental overgrowth and respiratory disease.
Hamsters
Lifespan is only 18-24 months and require very secure housing - it is amazing what they can gnaw through. If not exposed to adequate human contact or if woken abruptly they can give a nasty bite.
It is best to feed them a diet specific for hamsters supplemented with some fresh fruit and vegetables.
The commonest disease we see is wet tail which is unfortunately often fatal. It is caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut and can be associated with stress or a change in diet. Treatment is challenging and involves rehydration fluids, syringe feeding, probiotic administration and lots of nursing.
Rats and mice
These normally make very good pets especially rats which can exhibit a huge range of interesting behaviours. Feeding is also easier than with other small furries as they tend to thrive on a greater range of diets. However, both species are prone to obesity if fed too many treats, especially human food like chocolate!
The commonest condition we see is respiratory disease and, unfortunately, rats and mice are prone to tumours in later life (reaching an incidence of 50% in some laboratory mouse strains).
Other species
These include chipmunks, chinchillas, sugar gliders and degus all of which have their own specific requirements of husbandry and feeding.