Top 5 best pets for choosing

Guinea Pig

The guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) is a small rodent domesticated in Peru about 3,000 years ago. Originally used as a food source, they became popular as pets in the 19th century.

There are 13 breeds of guinea pigs, ranging from short-haired Abyssinians to curly-haired Texels. They weigh between 0.5 and 1.4 kg and measure 20 to 40 cm in length. Despite their small size, guinea pigs require daily cleaning and can live up to 7-8 years.

These social animals thrive in pairs and should be kept in groups of at least two. At an animal shelter or pet store where you find guinea pigs, staff can advise on compatible pairs (or even trios).

Guinea pig (image: Wikipedia)

Leopard gecko

The leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) is a delightful and fascinating choice for reptile enthusiasts. They have leopard-like spots and small pink tongues. Adult geckos grow to 20-25 cm in length.

Unlike other geckos, leopard geckos cannot climb walls, making their escape risk minimal. They are tolerant of casual handling but prefer not to be disturbed. They need a heat lamp, food (mealworms and crickets), and water.

It is crucial not to pull geckos by their tails, as they can drop them like other lizards. While a new tail will grow back, it will not be as visually striking as the original.

Eublepharis macularius eats a cricket (image: Wikipedia)

Bearded dragon

The bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) is an excellent choice for a pet. These lizards not only look intriguing with their beard and colorful spikes but are also very interactive, being patient with handling and actively exploring their surroundings.

Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning their diet includes not only insects but also a salad of vegetables such as leafy greens and bell peppers.

Bearded dragon (image: Wikipedia)

Rabbit

Rabbits were originally domesticated for food but have since become wonderful pets. All domestic rabbits are descendants of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

Indoor rabbits can live twice as long as those kept outdoors. They are highly social, so it’s important to treat them as family members. They are intelligent and can learn to use a litter box, similar to cats.

Despite their softness and fluffiness, rabbits do not always enjoy being picked up. They like sitting near their owners but often dislike being tightly held.

Holland Lop (image: Wikipedia)

Budgerigar

Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) are among the most popular pet birds in the US. They are known for their bright colors and friendly nature, making them excellent companions.

They are also very sociable and enjoy being petted. Budgerigars can learn to chirp, chatter, and whistle, making them delightful pets.

Since budgerigars are social birds, they prefer to live in pairs. Provide them with a large cage (at least 30.5 x 45.7 x 45.7 cm) to ensure they have enough space for flying and exploring their environment.

Budgerigar (image: Wikipedia)

Sources: Animals How Stuff Works, The Spruce Pets.