There are a plethora of benefits to owning a pet. They are a great source of companionship, comfort, and health benefits. The remarkable thing about pets is that they love you no matter what; they don’t even realize how much they mean to you and vice versa! It’s known that owning a cat or a dog comes with great responsibility, and if you want to enjoy your life with an animal companion, one of these five small, low maintenance pets may be your best option!

Hamsters 

Hamsters are generally inexpensive animals to own; even the cumulative cost of supplies and care is significantly lower than owning a cat or dog. This animal does not need extensive training as they are pretty low maintenance unless you plan to handle them. Handling and interacting with your hamster will significantly benefit your relationship with them, as they will get to know you and become more comfortable.

Average life span: 2-3 years

Difficulty of care: Low maintenance

Rabbits

Rabbits are great pets for families with busy lives who are allergic to dogs and want a caged animal. They can be calm, sociable, easy to train and cute! Depending on your rabbit’s personality, you’ll be surprised at how big their personalities can be.

You won’t need to take them on walks or constantly give them your attention, but if you want to teach them tricks or provide them with a litter, you’re in luck; rabbits can learn tricks and play games. Their nature will bring you lots of love, entertainment, companionship, and cuddles into your life!

Average life span: 8 to 10 years

Difficulty of care: Reasonably low maintenance

Birds

If you’re looking for a livelier and longer-living pet, a bird might be your new companion. Birds can be social and can bond closely with their owner. This animal thrives whenever its owner is around to fill their social and emotional needs, so if you have a lifestyle that isn’t too busy, this may be your next furry friend. Read our pet bird guide if it’s your first time owning a bird!

Average life span: Up to 30 years – depending on the breed

Difficulty of care: Low maintenance

Ferrets

Ferrets are brilliant animals that tend to be very playful. Additionally, this means that they have a lot of energy as well. You can train ferrets to do several tricks, and the process is similar to teaching a dog. If you cannot provide this animal with the attention it needs, this animal is not for you as it can affect its mental health.

If you have at least two hours a day with them and don’t mind devoting time to grooming them, ferrets are for you. Although, if you decide to get a ferret and don’t always have time to spend these hours with them every day, ferrets can be self-sufficient with another ferret friend.

Average life span: 5 to 10 years

Difficulty of care: Medium to high maintenance

Guinea Pigs 

Similar to ferrets, the mental health of these animals can be affected if they are lonely; getting a peer for them will prevent that. Their dietary needs and care are pretty simple to follow, as long as there is a consistent routine. Additionally, guinea pigs don’t require much of your time and space in your home.

This animal doesn’t necessarily like getting a pet, but they genuinely enjoy their owners’ presence. They are a reasonably low-maintenance animal to care for, and if you don’t mind the lack of cuddling and can provide a peaceful environment, guinea pigs are for you!

Average life span: 6 years

Difficulty of care: Reasonably low maintenance

Finding Low Maintenance Pets

If you are interested in having a generally low-maintenance pet, consider these furry creatures listed above. However, each animal requires an appropriate living space, a balanced diet, and caring owners. If you can do all of these things, go to your local veterinarian to learn more about what small animal would make the best pet for you.