Millions of people across England have rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils and hamsters. But often the welfare advice is not sought. For example, Pets at Home often sell rabbits alone, but unless there is a special reason (and males must always be neutered to prevent fights), rabbits are highly social and need lots of space (akin to a shed with warrens) to be truly happy. Unless already together, rabbits and guinea pigs are not recommended to be adopted together, as they eat very different food, and a kicking rabbit could injure a guinea pig.
Likewise, hamsters are not a good ‘first pet for children’. They are nocturnal, so being woken up during the day to play is not good. They are easily injured, and often become exhausted on hamster wheels.
Blue Cross has excellent welfare and care information by species, so read this first. And if you are then in the position to house one or two small furries, go to adoption centres over for-profit shops, that put money before welfare, and just encourage unnecessary breeding.
