The Complete Care Guide for Hamsters, Gerbils, and Small Rodents

Small pets, big personalities. Hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats, and guinea pigs make wonderful companions — but small doesn't mean simple.

Choosing the Right Rodent

• Hamsters — solitary and nocturnal; Syrian hamsters must live alone
• Gerbils — social; do best in pairs or small groups
• Rats — highly intelligent; always get at least two
• Guinea pigs — gentle, vocal; thrive in pairs and need more space

Housing

• Hamsters need minimum 450 sq inches of unbroken floor space
• Gerbils do best in a deep tank for digging tunnels
• Rats need a tall, multi-level cage with room to climb
• Avoid cedar and pine bedding — toxic to small animals
• Paper-based bedding is the gold standard

Feeding

• Hamsters and gerbils: quality seed and pellet mix with fresh vegetables
• Rats: varied diet of grains, vegetables, and occasional protein
• Guinea pigs: unlimited timothy hay, leafy greens, and daily vitamin C

Enrichment & Health

• Solid-surfaced wheels for hamsters and mice
• Tunnels, hides, and chew toys
• Weigh weekly — sudden weight loss is often the first sign of illness
• Find an exotic vet before you need one

At CROPTIRE BARNYARD, every pet deserves quality care — no matter the size. Small pet. Whole heart. 🐹🐾