Whether it’s your child’s wish or you’re looking for a loving companion, it’s helpful to know which pets are best to have at home. While domestic animals used to have specific roles like protection or providing food, they are now considered part of the family.
In most places, there’s no longer a need for cats to hunt rats or dogs to guard livestock. We now have different plans for our pets.
What do you imagine doing with the new member of the household? Do you have time to play with it, or would an independent species suit you better?
Would you like a pet that runs through the halls and accompanies you on trips, or do you prefer one that stays in a specific habitat?
Keep reading; today, we bring you the top 10 pets to have at home. Review the list and choose according to their characteristics.
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List of the 10 Best Pets to Have at Home
Obviously, the animal kingdom is so diverse that many people, including us, would love to build something similar to Noah’s Ark. But that’s not possible. Not all animals are domestic, and it’s essential to choose one that fits our lifestyle.
For this reason, we have listed the 10 pets that you should definitely consider when making your choice. The goal is to share some fun facts about who will be your next furry (scaly, feathered, etc.) friend. Let’s take a look!
1. Dogs
If we asked you what the most popular pet is, what would you say? The dog, right? Well, we have a statistic to back that up. The American Pet Products Association confirmed that 58 million households in the country have dogs.
We understand this trend because they are intelligent, loyal, and very affectionate. But don’t forget that they require a lot of attention. You’ll need to dedicate time to their care and companionship.
Only then will you ensure their physical and mental well-being. Otherwise, continuous barking and growling may arise, and even if they don’t feel threatened, they might bite.
Therefore, from the day they arrive home, start their training with professionals to ensure a pleasant coexistence.
2. Cats
Undoubtedly, cats are the second choice on the list of pets to have at home. Adults and children choose them because they are affectionate and show a wide variety of friendly gestures, such as purring, kneading with their paws, and seeking your hands for some petting.
Don’t mind cleaning a litter box every day? Then consider getting one of these animals. In just a few weeks, you’ll be in love with their behavior.
A tip! When you bring them home, try to keep them indoors most of the time. This will not only protect their life but also help safeguard the wild bird population.
And if they get bored? Teach them tricks and buy them toys.
3. Fish
Don’t want to stick to a routine of care? Fish require little maintenance, giving you the freedom to do what you want. In fact, though caring for them doesn’t require much effort, it will help calm anxiety.
Setting up the aquarium and tending to them will be a great hobby, providing a few minutes of peace.
The sound of water moving through the filter while you watch each specimen swim will be a pleasant part of your day.
Start with a betta fish. This is one of the most exotic species, with long and colorful fins. Plus, they’re available in all pet stores.
Later, you’ll find yourself wanting a larger aquarium to house more fish.
4. Rabbits
Earlier, we talked about the tasks domestic animals were subjected to. Rabbits were once considered just a food source. Fortunately, today they are more than that. People seek them out to make them their pets.
There are 50 breeds. But regardless of which one you choose, you should keep it indoors. The House Rabbit Society claims that those living inside homes live twice as long as those kept outside in cages.
Treat them like family; they are intelligent and can even learn to use a litter box.
5. Guinea Pigs
Here we start with a trio of rodents that are excellent alternatives as pets to have at home. The guinea pig is a small animal, and like rabbits, it was once seen as a tasty dish.
It was only in the 19th century that they became popular as pets. They have characteristics that appeal to any animal lover. They measure between 20.3 and 40.6 cm and can weigh up to 3 pounds.
What’s more! You can choose from 13 breeds. The most well-known? The short-haired Abyssinian and the curly-haired Texel.
By the way, even though they’re small, they’re very lively and messy. So, you’ll have to clean their space daily. Another tip: they do better in groups or pairs.
6. Hamsters
We continue with these small, irresistible animals. Their fur is so soft and their cheeks so puffy that anyone would want one at home.
In reality, hamsters were not originally defined as a domestic species, so it’s common to see them roaming in the plains. Unlike guinea pigs, these tend to be very solitary. For this reason, just one is enough.
There are 18 species, but one is the favorite as a pet: the Syrian golden hamster, which has 120 varieties with different colors and fur textures.
Make sure to have a large, ventilated cage, food, and objects or toys for their entertainment.
7. Pet Rats
This is the last rodent option to consider as a pet to have at home. They are often rejected, but they are an excellent choice for the household.
Attention! Only one of the 56 species is suitable for this: the so-called fancy rat, or domestic rat. They are small geniuses, fun, inquisitive, and don’t require much commitment to care for. They are also docile and come in different colors and fur textures.
They only live for two years, but that’s enough time to form a strong bond with them.
8. Birds
If you’re not a fan of cuddling, birds will entertain you in other ways. Depending on the type of bird you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy their colorful personalities, beautiful feathers, or sweet voices.
Looking for a pet that requires little care and maintenance? Then we’ve found your faithful companion.
For example, choose one or several parakeets. They are beautiful, sociable, friendly, change color, and learn to communicate with humans through whistles, chirps, and chatter.
In general, the diet of this and other bird species is based on seeds, vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
9. Turtles
Are you looking for your child’s first pet? Turtles are perfect because they will spark their curiosity and their most sensitive side.
They require simple care, making them a good starting point for children to learn and participate in the tasks involved in having a pet at home.
Another significant characteristic is that they are long-lived, so they will be around the family for a long time.
Just make sure to provide adequate space depending on the type of turtle you choose. They need warmth, protection from UVB radiation, and the right water temperature.
10. Snakes
Fear of this type of animal shouldn’t stop you from getting to know them. Snakes are certainly pets to have at home. You just need to find one that isn’t dangerous. Their food is quite affordable, unless you need to find live insects.
They only need water, food, and a comfortable space, which ensures enough autonomy for you to carry out your daily tasks.
Don’t have a terrarium? There are many models that take up little space, so the reptile won’t be a bother.
In fact, they are quiet and very calm.
Why Adopt Pets to Have at Home?
With this top 10, have you decided which one to adopt? These are pets to have at home that will brighten your life. The benefits? Many.
First, they will help you become more organized. All pets require certain care, so it will be essential to plan feeding, cleaning, routines, etc.
This will undoubtedly make you a more active person.
They will keep your mind more occupied, and, for example, if you have dogs, taking them for a walk will end your sedentary lifestyle and improve your health.
Another reason is that they will help you meet more people. You’ll likely make friends with other pet owners.
And finally, you’ll see that your capacity to give and receive love will increase. You’ll have a loyal friend who will reduce your stress and anxiety levels with their affection.
But what should you consider before adopting? Now that you have this list, think about what you expect from your pet. Also, evaluate whether the space you have is sufficient for the creature’s comfort. Does it need a lot of care? Does it require continuous medical attention?
The idea is to clearly understand the scenario that will unfold when you choose one or more of these pets to have at home. A new member will join the family, and you need to be prepared.