“Mom, Dad, can we get a dog, please?” Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? On one hand, it’s wonderful when a new furry family member, like a dog or a cat, joins the household. But parents should keep in mind that, in the end, the responsibility of caring for Oliver or Bella will fall on them — not the child.
That said, there are a few special pets that are easier to keep in an apartment. Think of them as a reasonable compromise and an alternative to a cat or dog. In practice, kids are usually thrilled with these little companions, love them, and even take care of them themselves. AdmiGram.com recommends parents take a closer look at the following options:
What’s the Best Pet for a Child?
Hamster
© Sunira Moses / Unsplash
Hamsters are the clear leaders when it comes to kids’ pets. They’re playful and pleasant, yet fairly independent by nature. They can live in small spaces and only require simple weekly cage cleaning. Keep in mind, though, that they’re small and delicate, which makes them unsuitable for very young children. Also, hamsters are nocturnal — they sleep during the day and can be noisy at night.
Bird
© Sultan / Unsplash
Birds can make wonderful pets, but they do require more care than rodents. Some birds are very intelligent, while others are highly social. Depending on your child’s personality, you can find a bird that matches their temperament. The smarter the bird, the more attention and stimulation it will need. Many birds are funny, lively, and full of character, quickly becoming family favorites.
Rat
© Nikolett Emmert / Unsplash
Rats are actually one of the best pets you can get. With loving owners, they’re funny, affectionate, and deeply bonded to their humans. Rats are interactive and can even learn tricks, like finding objects or running through maze courses. They do need spacious cages, but overall, they’re surprisingly easy to care for.
Lizard
© Amy Humphries / Unsplash
Lizards are among the lowest-maintenance pets you can own. They don’t make loud noises or wake the family in the morning. They don’t shed fur, and they lack many of the downsides of traditional furry pets. All you really need is the right terrarium setup and proper temperature control. While care requirements vary by species, most lizards don’t need complicated diets or upkeep.
Guinea Pig
© Bonnie Kittle / Unsplash
Guinea pigs are perfect for kids who are just learning how to care for a pet. They’re low-maintenance and don’t require any special conditions. The only must-have is a companion — guinea pigs get lonely if kept alone. They’re more intelligent and social than hamsters and thrive in small groups. To keep them from becoming shy, you’ll need to handle them regularly.
image on top: alice / Flickr
