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Home / Small Mammals

Small Mammals

6 ARTICLES

Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits and other small mammals are often a family's first pet, but their housing, diet and handling needs are frequently misunderstood. This section covers practical, vet-informed care for the most common small companion animals.

An adult pot-bellied pig standing outdoors in a backyard
SMALL MAMMALS
Mini Pig and Teacup Pig Lifespan: What Owners Should Know
Mini pigs typically live 10–15 years and can reach 20, per the Merck Vet Manual. Why 'teacup' pigs often die younger and how big they really grow.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 8 min read
A guinea pig eating a piece of bell pepper
SMALL MAMMALS
How Much Vitamin C Do Guinea Pigs Need?
Adult guinea pigs need 10–25 mg of vitamin C per kg daily, and 30 mg/kg or more if growing, pregnant or ill (Merck). The best sources and signs of scurvy.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A hamster showing signs associated with wet tail
SMALL MAMMALS
Wet Tail in Hamsters: Is It an Emergency?
Yes. Wet tail is the top recorded cause of death in UK pet hamsters and hits young Syrians hardest. The signs to spot and why to see a vet the same day.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A rabbit inside a spacious indoor exercise pen
SMALL MAMMALS
How Much Space Does a Pet Rabbit Need?
UK welfare groups set a minimum of 3 m x 2 m x 1 m high (about 10 x 6.5 x 3.3 ft) for two rabbits, open 24/7. Why a hutch alone isn't enough.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A guinea pig and a hamster together indoors on a soft blanket
SMALL MAMMALS
Guinea Pig, Hamster, or Rabbit: Which Is Right for You?
Hamsters live 2–3 years and live alone; guinea pigs 4–8 years in pairs or groups; rabbits up to 12. Compare space, handling and suitability for kids.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 8 min read
A person gently holding a rabbit with proper hindquarter support
SMALL MAMMALS
Handling and Bonding With Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Hamsters
Let the pet come to you, stay low and support its whole body. How to pick up rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters safely, and how to build trust over weeks.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
An older rabbit resting calmly indoors
SMALL MAMMALS
How Long Do Small Pets Live? A Lifespan Guide
Hamsters live about 2 years, guinea pigs 5–6, rabbits up to 12 and chinchillas 15–20 (VCA). A species-by-species lifespan chart, plus what helps.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
Fresh bedding being placed into a hamster cage during cleaning
SMALL MAMMALS
How Often Should You Clean a Hamster Cage?
Spot-clean a hamster cage daily and do a full clean weekly for small cages or every few weeks for large ones (PDSA) — keeping some old bedding each time.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 6 min read
A hand gently holding a guinea pig for a health check
SMALL MAMMALS
Signs of Illness in Small Mammals: When to See an Exotic Vet
Small mammals hide illness until late. Not eating, few or no droppings, diarrhea or labored breathing need a vet the same day. Warning signs by species.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 8 min read
A guinea pig cage with proper bedding set up indoors
SMALL MAMMALS
Setting Up a Small Mammal Habitat: Cage and Bedding
Minimum space: 7.5 sq ft for one guinea pig (Merck), 100 x 50 cm for a hamster (PDSA), 3 x 2 m for two rabbits (RWAF). Plus safe bedding, hides and wheels.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 8 min read
A guinea pig eating fresh vegetables
SMALL MAMMALS
What Do Guinea Pigs and Hamsters Eat? A Feeding Guide
Guinea pigs eat mostly unlimited grass hay, plus pellets and vitamin C-rich veg daily. Hamsters need a complete pellet, few seeds and a little fresh food.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A guinea pig peeking out from inside a cage hideout
SMALL MAMMALS
Why Does My Guinea Pig Hide All the Time?
Guinea pigs hide by instinct, especially in new homes. But RSPCA lists hiding most of the time as a stress sign — here's how to tell normal from a problem.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
Two guinea pigs sitting together companionably
SMALL MAMMALS
How Long Can Guinea Pigs Be Left Alone?
Vet-reviewed guidance: up to about 12 hours with hay, water and fresh veg. Any longer, arrange a daily sitter visit — guinea pigs need vitamin C daily.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 6 min read
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