10 Top Rodents To Keep As Pets

• Size: 5 to 7 inches
• Lifespan: 2 to 3 years
• Diet: Commercial hamster pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

The Syrian Hamster is a delightful and popular small mammal cherished for its charming characteristics. Unlike other hamster species, these hamster types boast a solitary lifestyle, preferring to live alone in their cozy cages, but they do form strong bonds with their owners.

The round and robust body, coats with colors and patterns, and impressive cheek pouches all add a touch of diversity to their visual appeal. Their friendly and docile temperament, manageable size, low maintenance requirements, and entertaining antics make them an ideal rodent companion.

• Size: 10 to 14 inches
• Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
• Diet: High-fiber pellets, hay, and occasional treats like dried fruits.

Chinchillas are adorable rodents native to the Andes Mountains in South America and they are a captivating choice for those seeking a unique and charming pet. They adorn one of the thickest fur coats in the animal kingdom which aids in insulation against their high-altitude mountainous habitats.

These fluffy, crepuscular animals stand out for their ability to jump to impressive heights, showcasing their agility and energetic nature. They are a little high-maintenance because they require spacious cages, dust baths, and a proper diet rich in hay, but their endearing personalities make them delightful companions.

• Size: 8 to 10 inches
• Lifespan: 5 to 7 years
• Diet: High-quality hay, fresh vegetables, pellets fortified with vitamin C, and occasional fruits.

The Guinea Pigs are delightful and sociable rodents characterized by their round bodies, compact size, and distinctive vocalizations, which make them a charming addition to households.

Unlike some solitary hamsters, guinea pigs thrive on companionship and are best kept in pairs or groups which showcases their affectionate and communal nature. These herbivores have a penchant for communication, expressing themselves through a variety of endearing squeaks, chirps, and purrs while their gentle disposition and the joy they bring to families.

• Size: 4 to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 2 to 4 years
• Diet: Commercial gerbil food, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

The Mongolian Gerbils are a captivating and social small mammal that is recognized for their long tails, large eyes and soft fur. Hailing from the arid regions of Mongolia and China, these little creatures are sociable by nature which makes them a favored pet.

These little beauties thrive in pairs or small groups, displaying intricate social hierarchies and engaging in playful activities like burrowing and grooming.

Their gentle and inquisitive demeanor coupled with their ease of care, positions them as delightful companions for individuals seeking an interactive and charming addition to their homes.

• Size: 9 to 11 inches
• Lifespan: 2 to 3 years
• Diet: High-quality commercial rat pellets, supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats.

The common rats are intelligent and social rodents that have gained a devoted following among pet enthusiasts. These tiny social animals are known for their sleek fur, dexterous paws, and expressive faces.

These pet rats exhibit a wide range of personalities, each one distinct and endearing, and due to their social nature they thrive in the company of their kind, displaying intricate hierarchies and forming strong bonds with their human caregivers.

Their intelligence allows them to learn tricks, solve puzzles, and even respond to their names.

• Size: 12 to 16 inches
• Lifespan: 8 to 12 years
• Diet: Herbivorous diet consisting of grasses, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, with occasional insects.

The Prairie Dogs are fascinating pet rodents characterized by their stout bodies, short legs, and distinctive barking calls. Native to the grasslands of North America, these little animals are known for their complex and organized underground burrow systems.

As pets, they require ample space and mental stimulation to mimic the environment in which they thrive, while their inquisitive nature and adorable appearance make them tempting as pets.

It is important to acknowledge that prairie dogs have specific dietary and social needs, and their wild instincts may clash with domestic settings.

• Size: 2 to 4 inches
• Lifespan: 2 to 4 years
• Diet: Insects, fruits, seeds, and occasional nectar.

The African Dormouse is a captivating diminutive creature that is recognized by its large, round eyes, plush fur, and long, bushy tail. Originating from various regions of Africa, these petite beauties boast a charming appearance that appeals to exotic pet enthusiasts.

These nocturnal rodents are arboreal by nature, and they showcase remarkable agility and a penchant for climbing. In captivity, providing suitable vertical space and various hiding spots mimics their natural habitat and ensures their well-being, while their curious and playful demeanor serves as a visual treat.

• Size: 8 to 12 inches
• Lifespan: 5 to 8 years
• Diet: High-fiber diet including hay, commercial degu pellets, and fresh vegetables.

Native to Chile, the common Degu is well-recognized for its long tail, large eyes, and distinctive vocalizations. These endearing rodents are highly social animals that thrive in pairs or small groups, making them a popular choice among pet enthusiasts.

One unique feature of degus is their dental health, as they require constant chewing to keep their ever-growing incisors in check. These energetic rodents are known for their agility and love for climbing, while their display of affectionate behaviors such as grooming and vocal communication helps to strengthen their bond with human counterparts.

• Size: 5 to 6 inches
• Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
• Diet: Omnivorous diet including a mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, insects, and a specialized sugar glider diet.

 A small and arboreal marsupial, the Sugar Glider features large eyes, gliding membrane, and bushy tails which makes them visually captivating. Their ability to glide from tree to tree in the wild translates into an endearing gliding behavior in captivity, making them a joy to watch.

These gliders are highly intelligent and they also form strong bonds with their human caregivers, often enjoying being carried in pouches close to their owners. While their nocturnal nature may not align with everyone's schedule, the charming and playful demeanor of sugar gliders makes them delightful pets for committed owners.

• Size: 2 to 4 inches
• Lifespan: 1.5 to 3 years
• Diet: Commercial dwarf hamster food, supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats.

The Dwarf Hamster is a tiny and adorable member of the hamster family and a popular choice for those seeking a pocket-sized companion. Characterized by their diminutive size, round bodies, and large, expressive eyes, they have a great variety like the Roborovski, Campbell's and Winter White.

These tiny beings are energetic and inquisitive by nature and they often engage in activities such as burrowing, climbing, and even wheel running. While they may be more on the fast and feisty side compared to their larger counterparts, their charm lies in their playfulness and adaptability.